Keywords :
Internal audit, Laboratory information system, Oral pathology laboratory, Quality assessment, Turnaround time
Citation Information :
Surendran S, Ramalingam K, Ramani P. Internal Auditing of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Laboratory: An Institutional Study. World J Dent 2024; 15 (5):436-441.
Aims: This study aims to internally audit an oral and maxillofacial pathology laboratory from January 2021 to December 2022.
Materials and methods: The information related to oral pathology laboratory activities documented in the Dental Information Archival Software (DIAS) of Saveetha Dental College was utilized for this study. Data on biopsies, cytology, income, and expenditure were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 23 (IBM, Armonk, United States of America). The mean and standard deviation were calculated for all the key components across all the quarterly data.
Results: Incisional biopsies decreased by 9%, while excisional biopsies increased by 26.5%. Cytology receipt decreased by 15%, and frozen section biopsies increased by 10%. Total biopsies increased by 7.3%, maintaining consistent turnaround times (TATs). Revenue increased by ₹29,012.5, and expenditure decreased by ₹23,191.
Conclusion: The introduction of the DIAS into oral pathology laboratory activities reduced TAT for incisional and excisional biopsies. We could consistently improve our biopsy cases, increase revenue, and decrease expenditure.
Clinical significance: Protocols favoring excisional biopsies over incisional ones may explain decreased incisional biopsies. Clear protocols for biopsy selection are essential for diagnostic accuracy. Internal auditing ensured compliance and optimized resource utilization in our oral pathology laboratory. Integrating internal auditing into laboratory practices is crucial for maintaining high standards of patient care and confidence in healthcare services.
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