Quick Overview
- 1#1: Epic Beaker - Comprehensive laboratory information system fully integrated with Epic's EHR for managing clinical workflows, testing, and results reporting.
- 2#2: Cerner PathNet - Advanced pathology and laboratory module within Cerner Millennium that handles diagnostics, specimen tracking, and compliance reporting.
- 3#3: Sunquest - Robust laboratory information system designed for high-volume clinical labs with middleware integration and workflow automation.
- 4#4: Orchard LIS - Flexible laboratory information system offering customizable rules engine for order entry, result verification, and instrument interfacing.
- 5#5: SCC SoftLab - Scalable LIS platform supporting anatomic, clinical, and molecular labs with advanced analytics and EMR integration.
- 6#6: CGM LABDAQ - User-friendly LIS for physician office and reference labs featuring phlebotomy management and quality control tools.
- 7#7: Psyche Systems Psyche LIS - Cloud-based laboratory information system optimized for transfusion medicine and microbiology workflows.
- 8#8: NovoPath 360 - Anatomic pathology LIS with digital pathology integration for case management and reporting.
- 9#9: Xifin LIS - Integrated LIS and revenue cycle management solution for pathology labs focusing on billing and compliance.
- 10#10: Telcor LIS - Affordable LIS for small to mid-sized labs with strong emphasis on speed, reliability, and custom reporting.
These tools were ranked based on rigorous assessment of key attributes, including integration with clinical systems, workflow optimization, data accuracy, user experience, and overall value, ensuring a balanced selection for labs of all sizes and specialties.
Comparison Table
Navigating the landscape of medical laboratory software can be challenging; this comparison table breaks down key tools like Epic Beaker, Cerner PathNet, Sunquest, Orchard LIS, SCC SoftLab, and more, highlighting their unique features and capabilities. Readers will gain clarity on how each tool aligns with different lab needs, from workflow efficiency to integration capabilities, to make data-driven decisions.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Epic Beaker Comprehensive laboratory information system fully integrated with Epic's EHR for managing clinical workflows, testing, and results reporting. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Cerner PathNet Advanced pathology and laboratory module within Cerner Millennium that handles diagnostics, specimen tracking, and compliance reporting. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | Sunquest Robust laboratory information system designed for high-volume clinical labs with middleware integration and workflow automation. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Orchard LIS Flexible laboratory information system offering customizable rules engine for order entry, result verification, and instrument interfacing. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 5 | SCC SoftLab Scalable LIS platform supporting anatomic, clinical, and molecular labs with advanced analytics and EMR integration. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | CGM LABDAQ User-friendly LIS for physician office and reference labs featuring phlebotomy management and quality control tools. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Psyche Systems Psyche LIS Cloud-based laboratory information system optimized for transfusion medicine and microbiology workflows. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | NovoPath 360 Anatomic pathology LIS with digital pathology integration for case management and reporting. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Xifin LIS Integrated LIS and revenue cycle management solution for pathology labs focusing on billing and compliance. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | Telcor LIS Affordable LIS for small to mid-sized labs with strong emphasis on speed, reliability, and custom reporting. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
Comprehensive laboratory information system fully integrated with Epic's EHR for managing clinical workflows, testing, and results reporting.
Advanced pathology and laboratory module within Cerner Millennium that handles diagnostics, specimen tracking, and compliance reporting.
Robust laboratory information system designed for high-volume clinical labs with middleware integration and workflow automation.
Flexible laboratory information system offering customizable rules engine for order entry, result verification, and instrument interfacing.
Scalable LIS platform supporting anatomic, clinical, and molecular labs with advanced analytics and EMR integration.
User-friendly LIS for physician office and reference labs featuring phlebotomy management and quality control tools.
Cloud-based laboratory information system optimized for transfusion medicine and microbiology workflows.
Anatomic pathology LIS with digital pathology integration for case management and reporting.
Integrated LIS and revenue cycle management solution for pathology labs focusing on billing and compliance.
Affordable LIS for small to mid-sized labs with strong emphasis on speed, reliability, and custom reporting.
Epic Beaker
enterpriseComprehensive laboratory information system fully integrated with Epic's EHR for managing clinical workflows, testing, and results reporting.
Hyperdrive rules engine for highly customizable, real-time workflow automation across all lab processes
Epic Beaker is a leading laboratory information system (LIS) from Epic Systems, designed to manage comprehensive lab workflows including clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology, anatomic pathology, molecular diagnostics, and blood banking. It integrates seamlessly with Epic's electronic health record (EHR) platform, enabling unified order entry, specimen collection, processing, result verification, and reporting across enterprise-scale healthcare organizations. Beaker enhances lab efficiency, ensures regulatory compliance, and supports advanced analytics for quality control and decision-making.
Pros
- Unparalleled integration with Epic EHR for seamless data flow and reduced errors
- Comprehensive support for all lab disciplines with advanced automation and rules engines
- Scalable for high-volume labs with robust analytics, QC, and compliance tools
Cons
- Extremely high upfront implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training for staff
- Limited interoperability challenges outside the Epic ecosystem
Best For
Large hospitals and integrated health systems using Epic EHR that require an enterprise-grade LIS for complex, high-volume lab operations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing negotiated per organization; typically involves multi-million-dollar implementation fees plus ongoing annual subscriptions based on modules, users, and volume.
Cerner PathNet
enterpriseAdvanced pathology and laboratory module within Cerner Millennium that handles diagnostics, specimen tracking, and compliance reporting.
Seamless, bidirectional integration with Cerner Millennium EHR for real-time pathology data synchronization
Cerner PathNet is a comprehensive laboratory information system (LIS) from Cerner Corporation, designed to manage the full spectrum of laboratory operations including order entry, specimen processing, testing, and result reporting for clinical, anatomic, and molecular pathology. It excels in large-scale healthcare environments by providing seamless integration with Cerner's Millennium EHR platform, enabling unified patient data access and workflow automation. PathNet supports advanced rules-based processing, quality control, and compliance with standards like HL7 and CAP accreditation.
Pros
- Deep integration with Cerner Millennium EHR for streamlined workflows
- Robust support for anatomic, clinical, and molecular pathology
- Advanced analytics, rules engine, and scalability for enterprise-level labs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation process
- High upfront costs and customization expenses
- Less ideal for small or standalone labs due to its enterprise focus
Best For
Large hospital systems and integrated health networks needing tightly coupled LIS-EHR functionality.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $500K+ annually for mid-sized implementations, scaling with modules and users.
Sunquest
enterpriseRobust laboratory information system designed for high-volume clinical labs with middleware integration and workflow automation.
Powerful rules-based decision engine for automating complex, lab-specific workflows and quality control
Sunquest offers a robust Laboratory Information System (LIS) tailored for high-volume clinical laboratories, hospitals, and reference labs, managing workflows across disciplines like chemistry, hematology, microbiology, anatomic pathology, and blood banking. It provides end-to-end automation from specimen collection and processing to result verification, reporting, and billing integration. The platform excels in regulatory compliance, instrument interfacing, and data analytics to support quality assurance and operational efficiency.
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of lab disciplines with modular flexibility
- Strong bi-directional instrument integration and rules-based workflow engine
- Proven scalability for enterprise-level operations with reliable uptime
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation for complex setups
- Primarily on-premise deployment with limited cloud-native options
- High customization costs can impact ROI for smaller labs
Best For
Large hospital systems and reference laboratories requiring scalable, discipline-spanning LIS with deep integration capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically $500K+ initial setup plus annual maintenance for mid-to-large deployments.
Orchard LIS
specializedFlexible laboratory information system offering customizable rules engine for order entry, result verification, and instrument interfacing.
Advanced rules-based engine for creating custom, logic-driven automations without coding
Orchard LIS is a comprehensive Laboratory Information System (LIS) designed for clinical, anatomic pathology, and molecular laboratories to manage workflows from test ordering and specimen collection to result reporting and quality control. It supports high-volume processing across disciplines like chemistry, hematology, microbiology, and blood bank with robust instrument integration and EMR interoperability. The system emphasizes compliance with standards such as CLIA, HIPAA, and ONC certification, enabling labs to streamline operations and enhance accuracy.
Pros
- Extensive integration capabilities with EHRs, analyzers, and practice management systems
- Powerful rules engine for automating complex workflows and decision support
- Strong support for regulatory compliance and quality assurance tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to highly configurable interface requiring extensive training
- Custom pricing can be prohibitive for small labs
- Limited native mobile app functionality compared to newer cloud-first competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large clinical laboratories handling high test volumes and needing scalable, customizable workflows.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically perpetual license or SaaS with implementation fees starting at $50,000+ depending on lab size and modules.
SCC SoftLab
enterpriseScalable LIS platform supporting anatomic, clinical, and molecular labs with advanced analytics and EMR integration.
Sophisticated rules-based engine for dynamic workflow automation and reflex testing
SCC SoftLab is a robust laboratory information system (LIS) designed for clinical and reference laboratories, automating workflows from test ordering and specimen collection to result verification and reporting. It supports multiple lab disciplines including chemistry, hematology, microbiology, blood bank, and anatomic pathology, with strong capabilities for high-volume processing. The platform offers bidirectional integration with EHR/EMR systems and features advanced analytics for quality control and compliance.
Pros
- Highly scalable for enterprise-level labs with high test volumes
- Extensive integration with analyzers, EMRs, and billing systems
- Advanced rules engine for automated reflex testing and quality assurance
Cons
- Complex implementation and customization process
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native LIS
- Premium pricing may not suit small labs
Best For
Large hospital labs or reference laboratories needing a highly configurable, high-throughput LIS with deep EMR integrations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $100,000+ annually for mid-to-large labs, including modules and support.
CGM LABDAQ
specializedUser-friendly LIS for physician office and reference labs featuring phlebotomy management and quality control tools.
Advanced Rules Processor for customizable, automated decision-making on result validation and reflex testing
CGM LABDAQ is a comprehensive Laboratory Information System (LIS) from CompuGroup Medical, designed for clinical, anatomic pathology, molecular, and blood bank laboratories. It automates the entire workflow from order entry and specimen tracking to result verification, reporting, and billing. With robust integration capabilities to EMRs and analyzers, it ensures compliance with standards like CLIA, HIPAA, and CAP.
Pros
- Extensive module support for diverse lab types including AP, molecular, and transfusion medicine
- Powerful rules-based engine for automated result review and quality control
- Strong interoperability with major EMRs and lab instruments
Cons
- Outdated user interface requiring training and adaptation
- Lengthy implementation and customization process
- Higher pricing that may not suit very small labs
Best For
Mid-sized clinical laboratories with high testing volumes needing scalable, compliant workflow automation.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at $50,000+ annually based on lab size, modules, and users; perpetual licenses also available.
Psyche Systems Psyche LIS
specializedCloud-based laboratory information system optimized for transfusion medicine and microbiology workflows.
Advanced web-based architecture with no client-side installation and built-in support for next-generation sequencing workflows
Psyche LIS from Psyche Systems is a comprehensive Laboratory Information System (LIS) designed for clinical, anatomic pathology, molecular, and blood bank laboratories. It manages the full lab workflow, including order entry, specimen tracking, result verification, quality control, and reporting. The web-based platform supports scalability for hospitals and reference labs with strong EMR integrations and regulatory compliance features.
Pros
- Broad module support across clinical, AP, molecular, and transfusion medicine
- Robust compliance tools for CAP, CLIA, HIPAA, and FDA regulations
- Seamless bidirectional integrations with major EHRs like Epic and Cerner
Cons
- User interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern SaaS LIS
- Lengthy implementation and customization process
- Pricing lacks transparency and requires custom quotes
Best For
Mid-to-large hospitals and reference labs needing a scalable, feature-rich LIS with proven enterprise reliability.
Pricing
Enterprise custom pricing; typically perpetual license or subscription starting at $50,000+ annually for mid-sized labs, plus implementation fees.
NovoPath 360
specializedAnatomic pathology LIS with digital pathology integration for case management and reporting.
360-degree case-centric workflow dashboard providing real-time visibility across all pathology stages and stakeholders
NovoPath 360 is a robust anatomic pathology laboratory information system (LIS) designed to manage end-to-end workflows for histology, cytology, surgical pathology, and autopsy cases. It supports accessioning, case tracking, grossing, microscopy, reporting, and quality assurance with customizable templates and multi-site capabilities. The platform integrates seamlessly with EMRs, digital pathology scanners, and lab instruments, enabling efficient diagnostics and compliance with standards like CAP and CLIA.
Pros
- Comprehensive workflow automation for anatomic pathology from accessioning to sign-out
- Strong integrations with EMRs (e.g., Epic, Cerner) and digital pathology systems
- Highly customizable reporting templates and QA tools for regulatory compliance
Cons
- Implementation and customization can require significant time and IT resources
- Pricing is enterprise-level and may not suit small labs
- Mobile accessibility and modern UI lag behind some competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large anatomic pathology labs needing scalable workflow management and deep EMR integrations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically subscription models starting at $40,000-$100,000 annually depending on lab size, modules, and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
Xifin LIS
enterpriseIntegrated LIS and revenue cycle management solution for pathology labs focusing on billing and compliance.
Integrated AI-driven Revenue Performance Management (RPM) that unifies lab operations with billing and claims optimization
Xifin LIS is a cloud-based laboratory information system tailored for diagnostic laboratories, managing workflows from specimen collection and order entry to result reporting and billing integration. It leverages AI-driven tools for automation, error detection, and compliance, supporting high-volume testing in areas like anatomic pathology, molecular diagnostics, and reference lab operations. The platform emphasizes revenue cycle management (RCM) integration to optimize reimbursements and operational efficiency.
Pros
- Seamless integration with revenue cycle management for end-to-end financial optimization
- AI-powered automation for workflow efficiency and error reduction
- Scalable architecture supporting high-volume, complex lab operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High implementation and subscription costs
- Limited flexibility for small labs due to enterprise focus
Best For
High-volume reference laboratories and pathology providers requiring integrated LIS and RCM capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $100K+ annually based on lab size, modules, and usage.
Telcor LIS
specializedAffordable LIS for small to mid-sized labs with strong emphasis on speed, reliability, and custom reporting.
Bidirectional interfacing with over 300 laboratory instruments for automated data exchange
Telcor LIS is a comprehensive laboratory information system (LIS) designed for clinical and reference laboratories, managing the full workflow from specimen collection and order entry to result reporting and billing. It excels in instrument interfacing with over 300 bidirectional interfaces, quality control, and compliance with standards like CLIA and HIPAA. The on-premise Windows-based solution supports high-volume testing environments with customizable rules engines and anatomic pathology modules.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 300 instrument interfaces for seamless integration
- Robust quality control and rules engine for accurate results management
- Scalable for mid-to-large labs with strong regulatory compliance tools
Cons
- Dated Windows-based interface feels outdated compared to modern cloud solutions
- Steep learning curve for setup and customization
- Primarily on-premise deployment limits remote access flexibility
Best For
Mid-sized clinical laboratories requiring extensive instrument integration and reliable on-premise workflow management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically involves one-time licensing fees starting around $50,000+ plus annual maintenance (10-20% of license cost).
Conclusion
The review highlights a range of exceptional lab software, with Epic Beaker leading as the top choice, celebrated for its seamless integration with EHR systems and comprehensive clinical workflow management. Close contenders Cerner PathNet and Sunquest also stand out—Cerner for its robust pathology and compliance tools, and Sunquest for handling high-volume labs through automation.
Don’t miss the opportunity to optimize your lab operations; start with Epic Beaker to experience its integrated capabilities, or explore the strong alternatives if your needs align with specialized workflows like pathology or high-volume testing.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison