Laboratory Information System (LIS): Complete Guide for Indian Labs

A Laboratory Information System (LIS) is the backbone of modern diagnostic labs. From sample collection to report delivery, LIS automates and streamlines every step. This guide covers everything Indian labs need to know about choosing and implementing LIS.

What is a Laboratory Information System?

An LIS (Laboratory Information System) is specialized software that manages all aspects of laboratory operations:

• Patient and sample registration
• Test ordering and requisition management
• Sample tracking and barcode management
• Equipment integration and result capture
• Report generation and delivery
• Billing and inventory management
• Quality control and compliance

Key Features of LIS

1. Patient Registration & Sample Collection

• Unique patient ID and barcode generation
• Multiple sample types per patient
• Home collection scheduling
• ABHA ID integration

2. Test Ordering & Management

• Comprehensive test catalog with pricing
• Test packages and profiles
• Doctor referral tracking
• Priority marking (Stat, Routine)

3. Equipment Integration

• Bi-directional interface with analyzers
• Auto-fetch results from machines
• Support for multiple analyzer brands
• HL7/ASTM protocol compliance

4. Report Generation & Delivery

• Auto-populated report templates
• Reference range flagging (High/Low)
• Multi-level approval workflow
• WhatsApp/Email/SMS report delivery
• Patient portal access

5. Quality Control

• Daily QC value tracking
• Levey-Jennings charts
• Westgard rule alerts
• NABL compliance documentation

Benefits of LIS

• 90% Reduction in Errors: Barcode tracking eliminates manual data entry mistakes
• 50% Faster TAT: Automated workflows speed up reporting
• Better Inventory Control: Track reagent usage and expiry
• NABL Compliance: Built-in QC and documentation
• Patient Satisfaction: Faster reports, online access

LIS vs HMS Lab Module

What's the difference?

• Standalone LIS: Specialized for labs, deep features, but needs integration
• HMS Lab Module: Integrated with hospital, simpler but connected

For hospital-attached labs, an integrated lab module is usually better—seamless order flow from OPD/IPD.

Choosing LIS for Your Lab

Consider these factors:

• Test Volume: Daily samples processed
• Equipment: Which analyzers need integration
• Branches: Multi-location support needed?
• Compliance: NABL accreditation plans?
• Budget: Cloud vs on-premise pricing

Top LIS Providers in India

• Adrine Laboratory: Part of Adrine HMS, best for hospital labs
• Creliant: Popular standalone LIS
• eLAB: Cloud-based with good integrations
• LabSoft: For high-volume reference labs