Medical Laboratory Observer

Cover Story

Pieces of the POCT puzzle:
Point-of-care testing: changing the way patient care is delivered
Proper development and integration of POCT into diagnosis and treatment has the potential to significantly impact the way healthcare is delivered globally, and effectively reduce mortality and morbidity rates.
By Kristin N. Hale, BS, BA, and Gerald J. Kost, MD, PhD, MS, FACB

Features

Clinical Issues

A few remarks on analyzers: Which end is up?
Two experts explain advances to the front end and back end of automated systems; the value that lies in between; and the next big thing in automation.
PLUS “A” is for analyzers
A look at analyzers from chemistry, to hematology, to urine … from low maintenance, to compact, to CLIA-waived POC, and more.

Special to MLO

Vitamin D: bringing light to the issue
Vitamin D can be produced by the body; but from October through March, UVB radiation is insufficient to trigger this conversion at/above 35° N latitude.
By Lynn Stiff, BS, and Sharon M. Miller, PhC, MT(ASCP), CLS(NCA)

Executive Snapshot

A2LA’s Unger reaches warp factor nine
Peter Unger is CEO of this comprehensive multidiscipline lab-accreditation company. Find out his take on the future of ISO 15189 accreditation.
By Denise DiRamio

Special Feature

Emerging technologies push data integration
In an ideal world, a patient’s reference intervals and test results flow seamlessly between AP and clinical labs into an EMR where doctors can access all patient data. But this is not an ideal world — yet.
By Richard R. Rogoski

PLUS Changes in test values crucial to quality lab reports
By Rami Jaschek

Lab Management

Transitioning medical lab demands flexibility
MLO’s three “Management Q&A” panelists join in a conversation on challenges lab management are facing in the medical lab’s changing environment.