Laboratory test utilization program: structure and impact in a large academic medical center

Am J Clin Pathol. 2013 Mar;139(3):289-97. doi: 10.1309/AJCP4G6UAUXCFTQF.

Abstract

In 2008, the University of Michigan Health System (UMHS) created a Laboratory Test Utilization Program that included the establishment of a Laboratory Formulary Committee under the imprimatur of the Faculty Group Practice, the Office of Clinical Affairs, the Department of Pathology, and UMHS hospital administration. A critical component of the program is UM-CareLink, an order entry system for inpatients and inpatient-like venues. UM-CareLink allows very basic decision support comment prompts. Through the application of peer-reviewed medical evidence, input by medical content experts, excellent cooperation by medical staff, and close oversight by Pathology of the Sendout Laboratory, this program has led to a robust process of test utilization oversight, excellent communication with clinical services, and significant UMHS activity-adjusted reductions in laboratory expense.

MeSH terms

  • Diagnostic Tests, Routine / statistics & numerical data*
  • Laboratories, Hospital / organization & administration*
  • Pathology, Clinical / organization & administration*
  • Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee / organization & administration*