The OpenLabs project. A suggested approach for more effective use of information technology in clinical laboratories.

The OpenLabs project is a major European initiative in laboratory medicine with a global audience in mind. OpenLabs aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of clinical laboratory services by integrating knowledge-based systems (using OpenLabs modules) with laboratory information systems and equipment. Standards for electronic data interchange between laboratories and other medical systems using the OpenLabs coding system and an open architecture for clinical laboratory information systems are being specified.