Finding the knowledge in information.

Abstract

1. Burton W Wilcke Jr, PhD 1. is associate professor and chair of the Department of Medical Laboratory and Radiation Sciences at the University of Vermont, Burlington VT In 1934, when T.S Eliot wrote the following in his poem, “The Rock”, it is doubtful he envisioned his words being applied to the field of clinical laboratory science some 74 years later. > “Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? > > Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?” Perhaps more than any other group of healthcare professionals, clinical laboratory scientists can easily become lost in data and information. Indeed, the primary focus of the field of clinical laboratory science is the generation of data for clinical decision making. Through production of this data, laboratorians contribute critical information for use by physicians and others for the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of disease. Today, the clinical laboratory depends heavily upon computers for processing and handling the large volumes of data it generates. In fact, in the early stages of their development, computers were referred to as “data processing machines”.1 Having a solid understanding of the function of computers has become an essential part of becoming a clinical laboratory scientist. A working knowledge of the use of computers and common software applications is now an essential prerequisite for students entering into clinical laboratory science programs such as that at the University of Vermont. Accrediting bodies that oversee clinical laboratory science programs now expect and require evidence of this in our curricula. But merely knowing how to use computers and computer software is no longer sufficient in today's world. Throughout its history, the focus of the field of informatics has gradually…