Cost-benefit of laboratory computer systems.

The benefits and costs of a computer laboratory information system have been evaluated in three military hospitals, using a pre- and postimplementation comparison of time spent by laboratory and medical staff on information-handling activities, turnaround time for laboratory results, and staff perceptions of performance. The evaluation indicates that the laboratory information system is very cost-effective. A major benefit is the reduction in nursing staff time required to obtain laboratory test status and results.