Enhancing Pathogen Test Forms With Reference Laboratory Checkbox

Introduction

Hey guys! In the world of public health and disease surveillance, having accurate and reliable data is super important. One area where this really matters is pathogen testing. You need to be able to trust the results you're getting, especially when dealing with serious diseases. Currently, SORMAS, doesn't have a clear way to show if a pathogen test was done by a reference laboratory. This can be a big deal because these labs follow stricter rules and have better equipment, which means their results are often more trustworthy. So, to fix this, we're proposing adding a simple checkbox to the pathogen test forms. This little addition can make a big difference in how we understand and use test results. Let's dive into why this is needed, what the benefits are, and how it can be implemented.

Problem Description

In the current system, there's no easy way to tell if a pathogen test was performed by a reference laboratory. This is a problem because reference labs usually have better equipment and follow stricter rules than regular labs. These labs also have external quality assurance, which increases trust in the results they produce. This is especially true for rare pathogens or when confirmatory tests are needed. Being able to distinguish between routine and reference lab results is important for reporting and case management. Imagine you're tracking a dangerous outbreak – you'd want to know which tests were done under the highest standards, right? Without a way to mark these tests, it’s hard to be fully confident in your data. This lack of clarity can affect how you interpret the results and make decisions based on them. For example, a confirmatory test done by a reference lab should hold more weight than a routine test. Adding this feature helps to improve data accuracy and ensure that public health decisions are based on reliable information.

Proposed Change

The solution is pretty straightforward: add a checkbox labeled “Test performed by Reference Laboratory” to the “Add New Pathogen Test” form. This will allow users to easily indicate whether a test was conducted by a reference lab. But it's not just about adding the checkbox; we also need to make this information visible where it matters. So, we should display an icon or label next to the test result wherever it appears, such as in the boxes in Samples and Cases sections. This visual cue will instantly show whether a test was performed by a reference lab. This way, anyone looking at the data can quickly see the source of the test and its reliability. Think of it as a visual stamp of approval. When you see that icon, you know the test was performed under the highest standards. This simple change can significantly improve how test results are interpreted and used in public health management.

Added Value/Benefit

Adding a reference laboratory checkbox brings several key benefits. First and foremost, it greatly improves data clarity. By clearly differentiating between tests conducted with standard protocols and those performed with reference-grade lab quality, you gain a more accurate picture of the test landscape. This distinction is crucial for informed decision-making. Secondly, it enhances interpretation confidence. Results from reference labs can be flagged for higher trust, which is especially relevant in public health surveillance of rare or high-consequence pathogens. When dealing with serious diseases, you want to be sure about your data, and this feature helps provide that assurance. Imagine the difference in response to an outbreak when you know confirmatory tests were done by a top-tier lab. Lastly, it facilitates reporting. The checkbox enables filtering key results where confirmatory testing is needed. This streamlines the process of identifying and focusing on the most reliable data, making reporting more efficient and effective. With this simple addition, you can quickly isolate critical information, ensuring that resources are directed where they are most needed. In short, the added value lies in improved data quality, enhanced confidence, and more efficient reporting.

Acceptance Criteria

To make sure this change is properly implemented, we need to define clear acceptance criteria. These criteria will serve as a checklist to ensure that the new feature works as expected and meets our goals. First, there should be a checkbox labeled “Performed by Reference Laboratory” in the “Create a new pathogen test” form. This is the most basic requirement – the checkbox must be there and easy to use. Second, when the checkbox is selected (i.e., the test was performed by a reference lab), a label like “Reference lab” or an icon should be displayed next to the test result wherever it appears in the system. This includes in the Samples and Cases sections. This visual cue is crucial for quickly identifying reference lab results. The presence of this indicator is a must for easy recognition. Lastly, we need a clear way to verify that the checkbox and indicator are functioning correctly across all relevant parts of the system. Think of it as a quality control check to ensure that the feature works seamlessly. Meeting these acceptance criteria will ensure that the new feature adds real value and improves the system's usability.

Implementation Details

No response

Mockups

No response

Additional Information

No response

So, adding a “Test performed by Reference Laboratory” checkbox to the pathogen test forms is a small change that can have a big impact. It's all about making sure the data we use is as accurate and trustworthy as possible. By clearly marking which tests were done by reference labs, we improve data clarity, boost confidence in our results, and make reporting more efficient. This feature is especially important for public health surveillance, where reliable information is critical for making informed decisions. We've outlined the problem, proposed a simple solution, highlighted the benefits, and set clear acceptance criteria. Now, it's about putting this plan into action. By implementing this change, we're taking a step towards strengthening our ability to manage and respond to public health challenges effectively. It’s a small tweak that can lead to significant improvements in how we handle pathogen testing data. Let’s make it happen!