Ordering tests electronically on GPOC/TRAK

Ordering tests electronically within Primary Care

GP order comms system can be used to request laboratory investigations using a web-based system that is launched from within the GP practice system without the need for additional logins. This system is available for use by all Lothian GP Practices.  The system is extremely easy to use and employs rules to ensure only appropriate requests are made and full information is available to the lab.  Barcode labels are produced through Zebra printers current in situ within the surgery and these are applied to the samples removing the need to fill out the request form details.

Benefits to patient care include:

  • True system to system connectivity allowing complete and accurate order entry ensuring results are returned to the correct practice and patient whether on paper, via mail manager or via electronic document transfer (EDT)
  • Integration into the practice IT system, intuitive requesting with prompts and advice with clinical decision support.
  • Improved data quality, reducing the numbers of samples rejected or misdirected.
  • Faster turnaround times within our laboratories
  • Request tracking from point of request through to result authorisation
  • Provides information on type of tube required and need for special procedures, supporting the requester and specimen collection, reducing errors and repeat tests

Ordering tests electronically within Secondary Care

Trak is a web-based patient management system which has been implemented across all sites within the University Hospitals Division of NHS Lothian.  It includes patient administration, A&E, radiology and order communications/results reporting functionality for Laboratory and Radiology investigations.

Laboratory investigations can be ordered through the TrakCare Electronic Patient Record (EPR) and the status of the request is viewable to clinicians.  As the request progresses through the laboratory the status of the request is updated.  The result is returned electronically once authorised and is viewable in the EPR.