This activity is intended for pathologists who want to build foundational knowledge in informatics and technology found in today’s medical laboratory.

Rereleased Activity
This activity originally released as Health Information Technology (HIT) Primer (FREE) and was available between July 17, 2013, and July 15, 2016. The content was reviewed in March 2017 and an updated version of the activity titled, Tackling Today’s Technology - A Pathologist's Guide to Health IT Basics (FREE), was available between August 14, 2017, and August 13, 2020. The content was reviewed December 2020 and an updated version of the activity Tackling Today’s Technology - A Pathologist's Guide to Health IT Basics, was rereleased May 24, 2021.

Description
This activity is intended for laboratory professionals, pathology residents, and practicing pathologists who want to build foundational knowledge in informatics and technology found in today’s medical laboratory. It provides an overview of desktop computers, networks, databases, report writing, and laboratory information systems (LIS). In addition, key considerations for successfully deploying digital imaging solutions and whole slide imaging are explored. Government laws and regulations specific to informatics technology are also covered.

Objectives
After completing this activity, you should be able to:

1. Match computer configurations to your needs.
2. Explain the basic structure of a database and how data is stored and accessed.
3. Define the role of the pathologist in working with the issues of standalone laboratory information systems/anatomical pathology information systems (LIS/APLIS) and electronic medical records (EMR).
4. Explain the basics of digital imaging.
5. Use CLIA regulations to manage data and report generation.
6. Structure data reports using the four formatting principles of headlines, layout continuity, optimized information density, and reduction of clutter.

CME/CE Information
This activity does not offer CME or CE credit.

A letter of participation will be awarded upon completion of the activity.

Technical Requirements
Pop-up blockers must be turned off.

The CAP recognizes that some Veteran’s Administration, US Government, and military participants may have difficulty accessing the online activity. If you experience difficulty or have any questions, please contact a representative of the Customer Contact Center at 800-323-4040 option 1 or education@cap.org.

Availability
This activity is available May 24, 2021 - December 19, 2025, at 11:59 PM (CT). Upon completion of the activity your letter of participation will be awarded. It may be downloaded from your Transcript.

CC: INFORHIT05F.2021

Key Words: N/A