Innovations in technology have been beneficial in the field of medicine, particularly in laboratory diagnostics, over the past years. As noted by Harpreet (2023) in his article Current Trends and Innovations in Medical Laboratory Technology, Medical Laboratory Science is a field that is continually developing. It is integral in the diagnosis and treatment of innumerable diseases; thus, it is crucial to be up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations to bring about more promising health assistance. Some of the latest innovations Harpreet mentioned include Advanced Automation and Robotics, Next Generation Sequencing, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Point-of-Care Testing, and Telemedicine and Remote Monitoring. In addition, the Barcoding System as well is a product of growing technology. Further, this too has its role in diagnostic laboratories, which includes the Microbiology Section.

Rezaei‐Hachesu et al. (2016) defined in their journal, Recommendations for Using Barcode in Hospital Process, that barcodes are reference numbers that allow document searching, including descriptive data and other important information, through the utilization of computers. As medical errors are one the primary concerns of on-site healthcare, the authors cited how barcodes are the most economical method of improving patient safety. Barcoding Systems may be beneficial in considerable ways, such that they aid in specimen collection, patient identification, patient care, and the sharing of information in real-time (Vinutha, 2024). The barcode tracking system provides the laboratory with an accurate collection and processing of specimens through verification between patient wristband data and specimen containers, thus reducing errors in labeling and processing. Further, it has the capability to provide real-time information sharing. It is possible through linking of data to wristband barcodes. It then allows immediate access for medical staff.

Innovations in technology, such as the Barcoding System, do have an impact on laboratory diagnostics. The Microbiology Section, as part of the clinical laboratory, also shares benefits from the barcode technology as it enhances patient safety by allowing a more accurate specimen collection to verification of treatment by the medical staff, thus improving medical staff’s productivity and further being able to provide better health assistance.

References:

Harpreet. (2023, October 20). Current Trends and Innovations in Medical Laboratory Technology - BizTech College. BizTech College. https://biztechcollege.com/biztalk/medical-laboratory-technology/

Rezaei‐Hachesu, P., Zyaei, L., & Hassankhani, H. (2016). Recommendations for using barcode in hospital process. Acta Informatica Medica, 24(3), 206. https://doi.org/10.5455/aim.2016.24.206-210

Vinutha. (2024, January 22). All about Barcode Technology in Healthcare Industry 2024 | Infraon. Infraon Blogs - Experts Insights on ITOps and Customer Success. https://infraon.io/blog/barcode-technology-in-healthcare-industry/