CASE STUDY

Pathology Network LIMS System Interoperability Redesign

Pathology Network LIMS System Interoperability Redesign

Context

The COVID-19 LIMS enhancement initiative was launched in 2020 to create a seamless, interoperable IT system across London’s pathology network.

Interoperability between labs has long been a challenge due to legacy systems and inconsistent data standards, often leading to manual, paper-based processes. The pandemic exposed the need for greater resilience and flexibility to manage demand.

To address this, London aimed to build a Pan-London laboratory platform allowing its five pathology networks to share workload, data, and expertise. Key goals include:

  1. Improving LIMS interoperability across London.

  2. Using AI to support automated reporting and diagnostics.

  3. Providing COVID demand data to national bodies.

  4. Integrating pathology results into the OneLondon patient record.

  5. Developing analytics to support population health.

Methodology

Akeso led the review and design for a Pan-London Pathology Network enabling enhanced interoperability and connectivity across the region to support cross trust collaboration and mutual aid of COVID-19 testing.

Scoping Requirements and System Maturity Assessment

We conducted a market analysis and assessment of the supply base, interviewing key stakeholders to understand the current challenges and scope the requirements. Using our Digital System Maturity Assessment framework, we identified areas of opportunity to increase interoperability and connectivity across the system. We our insight to develop a detailed baseline report, including detailed technical system architectures to accurately capture the current complexities of the London digital landscape and requirements.

Opportunity Assessment and Supplier Engagement

Building on the system maturity assessment and requirements, we conducted an opportunity assessment with suppliers and carried out market engagement to design an interoperable solution for the Pan-London Labatory platform and identify the appropriate route-to-market.

Market Go-Live

To enable market go-live we worked with key stakeholders to develop a detailed functional and non-functional specification and a full suite of ITT documents to support the Pathology Network go to market effectively and compliantly.

Results

Produced clarity on the system requirements within a complex digital landscape

Designed and market tested a single solution to enable network connectivity and system-wide ordering aligned to One London Shared Care Record

Facilitated collaborative engagement with Supplier to co-design and produce a specification and fully compliant tender process

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