HL7 is the common language labs and EHRs use to exchange orders and results. When a lab offers an “electronic interface”, this is usually what they mean.
Orders and results
An order message travels from your EHR to the lab with the patient, tests and insurance details. A result message comes back with each test, value, unit, reference range and flag.
What your practice provides
- Your account number with the lab
- The ordering providers and their NPIs
- Time for a few test orders before going live
Once connected, results file into the right chart automatically, and abnormal values are surfaced first.