Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Successfully Launches Autoverification in the Laboratory

Autoverification is an innovative process that automatically validates and releases many routine laboratory test results into the Electronic Health Record (EHR). By using carefully defined criteria to ensure accuracy and consistency, this system allows results that meet all quality standards to be reported more efficiently, while still ensuring that anything outside those parameters receives careful review.

Today, approximately 60% of HRMC’s laboratory testing menu utilizes autoverification, allowing patients and providers to receive results more quickly without compromising quality or safety.

Autoverification improves the speed and reliability of laboratory testing, both critical elements in timely diagnosis and treatment. Faster access to accurate results helps providers make informed care decisions sooner, which can lead to better outcomes and an improved patient experience.

Benefits of Autoverification

• Faster Turnaround Times – Patients and providers receive results more quickly.
  
• Improved Accuracy and Safety – Built-in checks help identify inconsistencies and potential issues.
  
• Greater Efficiency – Routine results are automated, reducing delays.
  
• Optimized Use of Expertise – Laboratory professionals are able to focus on more complex or urgent cases.

Implementing autoverification was a highly detailed process that required close collaboration between Laboratory Services, Information Systems, Medical Directors, and multiple vendor partners. Over the course of 14 months, teams worked together to design, test, and validate the system to ensure it met rigorous clinical and regulatory standards.

The process included extensive staff training and education, establishing clear criteria for verification, conducting routine audits to ensure accuracy and consistency, and closely monitoring the system to confirm that all parameters functioned as intended. Comprehensive documentation was also completed to support compliance and long-term reliability.

Molly Williams, Director of Laboratory Services, emphasized the broader impact of this work:
“This was a significant undertaking, but one that truly benefits our healthcare system, patients, and our community. It’s not just about efficiency – it’s about improving the quality of care for our patients. With faster and more accurate results, we can make quicker healthcare decisions, which leads to better outcomes for everyone involved. This technology will also allow our lab professionals to focus on the more complex and nuanced cases that require their expertise.”

Benjamin Anderson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, highlighted the organizational importance of the project:
“This successful launch demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to excellence. The implementation of autoverification is just one example of our dedication to enhancing both patient experience and operational efficiency. This new system will help ensure that we maintain the highest standards of care while streamlining our processes to better serve our patients and healthcare professionals.”

The implementation of autoverification marks another important step in HRMC’s continued efforts to enhance healthcare delivery while keeping patient safety and quality at the forefront. As technology continues to evolve, the hospital will continue to innovate and seek out new ways to provide top-tier care for the community it serves.

This success story is a testament to the dedication of HRMC’s staff, the collaborative spirit within the organization, and the commitment to providing the best possible care to our patients.