A Lab-EMR interoperability profile as an eHealth architecture component for resource-constrained settings

Implementation of computerized systems in resource-constrained settings have been gaining traction as a means of improving the delivery of health care, the use and reuse of information, and providing a standards-based capacity for assessing the process and impact of health care. In a resource-constrained environment, systems are often implemented as stand-alone entities focused on specific care activities (for example, delivering antiretroviral therapy). As such, in many countries, taking a generalized approach to linking electronic medical record systems with laboratory information systems (EMR-LIS) is an important area in which to achieve interoperability. In this paper we describe a scenario of use and information interaction interoperability profile based on our experience implementing EMR-LIS integration in two resource-constrained settings. Of significance, the profile emphasizes queued matching in order to avoid mutual dependence while achieving interoperability between systems.