Development Of A Web-Based System To Enhance Monitoring Laboratory Order And Result Dissemination A Case Study Of Softmed Company Limited
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Date
2025-08
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NM-AIST
Abstract
Laboratory testing plays a critical role in clinical decision-making and patient care. However, in many healthcare settings, especially in developing countries, laboratory order management remains manual and paper-based, leading to inefficiencies, errors, and delays in result dissemination. These challenges compromise the quality of care and timely treatment decisions. Despite existing studies highlighting errors in laboratory workflows, especially in the pre-analytical phase, few interventions target private, multi-hospital laboratory services in Tanzania. This study aimed to improve operational efficiency and result dissemination at SoftMed, a private pathology laboratory in Arusha, Tanzania, through the development of a web-based laboratory order and result dissemination system. The system was designed to automate test acquisition, streamline inter-facility coordination, and reduce operational bottlenecks. A qualitative approach was used, involving interviews and system validation by six clinical and laboratory staff directly involved in lab order processes. Development followed the Agile Extreme Programming (XP) methodology, using Angular for the web interface, Laravel for the backend, and MySQL for data storage. Validation assessed improvements in turnaround time, communication, and error reduction. Results indicated notable improvements in workflow efficiency, reduced turnaround time, and enhanced communication between healthcare providers and lab staff. Although the validation sample was limited, feedback confirmed the system's operational effectiveness in the specific private lab context. This study contributes practical evidence supporting lab workflow automation in Tanzania’s private healthcare sector and recommends futureintegration with electronic medical records (EMRs) for comprehensive health information management.
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG-3: Good Health and Well-Being
SDG-4: Quality Education
SDG-9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
SDG-17: Partnerships for the Goals