Leveraging Laboratory Information Management Systems to Support HIV and Other Infectious Diseases Testing in PEPFAR-Supported Countries.

Abstract

Laboratory information management systems (LIMSs) are an important tool for public health laboratory operations and serve the data needs of public health programs. A comprehensive and interoperable LIMS allows laboratory staff to ensure quality management of laboratory operations. It also provides timely client care through direct access to diagnostic data and tracks important public health trends. Here, we describe the implementation and adaptation of HIV-related LIMSs in 3 countries supported by PEPFAR (President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief)-namely, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe-to support other epidemic responses. These examples demonstrate the considerations for adoption of LIMSs, the challenges to implementation, and the opportunities for integration of HIV diagnostic data tracking with other diseases of concern.