Free pathology tests app launched for patients and doctors

Patients and their doctors can now get up-to-date information about pathology testing on their smartphones whenever and wherever they need it.

Lab Tests Online-AU, a not-for-profit website that provides independent information written by pathologists and scientists, has launched a free app for iPhone with versions for Android (Google Play) phones and Amazon Kindle available in the coming weeks.

“Whether you are a patient looking for answers that might reassure you about your health or a medical or health professional seeking quick confirmation of a test, this new app puts the information into the palm of your hand,” Lab Tests Online-AU Chair Professor Leslie Burnett said.

“If a patient has been asked to have a test by their doctor, they or their carer can easily find out what is being tested and why. Understanding the biology of their disease or condition can be very reassuring to people. They don’t always take in all the information being given to them, especially if they are under stress. They can use Lab Tests Online-AU in their own time.”

Professor Burnett said research has shown that about one third of Lab Tests Online-AU users are doctors and health professionals. Hospital medical officers in particular were especially keen to be able to have the information available on their phones so they could access information while on the wards.

The app is easy to use and offers information on pathology tests, diseases, clinical conditions, specimen collection and processing, as well a general overview of pathology laboratories, the way they work and the people who work in them.

It has been developed by the Australasian Association of Clinical Biochemists (AACB) with support from the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA). It has been funded under the Quality Use of Pathology Program of the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing.

To download the app, click here.