Overview of Requirements and Future Perspectives on Current Laboratory Information Management Systems

Abstract

The chapter argues that a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is the application of computational technology in laboratory medicine. This is an advanced technology that can support the general work in medical laboratories. The LIMS can also be useful in all steps of the laboratory cycle (pre-, intra-, and post-analytical phases). There are many LIMSs at present, and those LIMSs are used worldwide. The present concern is on the standardization of the existing system. In this context, international collaboration to set the standards is required. In addition, the multidisciplinary approach to add up the advantage and application of the technology is promising. With the more advanced computational and wireless information technology, the next step of LIMS will be big wireless LIMS networks that extend from medical laboratories and wards within the hospital to outside units as well as patient homes. The point-of-care LIMSs are the actual future perspectives.