Anonymous Laboratory Test Ordering via Intermediary Identifier Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals often refrain from seeking diagnostic tests for health-related conditions due to concerns about the confidentiality and potential misuse of their health-related information by testing facilities.
Innovation Solution
A system and method allowing individuals to order and receive laboratory test results without providing identifying information, using a server-based system where a subject can request tests anonymously, with a sample vessel associated with an identifier code, and sample processing performed without knowledge of the subject's identity or test type, ensuring confidentiality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a subject provides identifying information to order a laboratory test, then the testing facility can properly process and deliver results, but the subject's confidentiality and privacy are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary identifier code that mediates between the subject and the testing facility. The subject provides this code instead of personal identifying information, and the code serves as a bridge to link the test order, sample, and results without revealing the subject's identity. This resolves the contradiction by enabling reliable test processing while protecting confidentiality through the intermediary mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a copy mechanism where the identifier code represents the subject's test information without containing actual personal identifying data. The code acts as a surrogate or copy that fulfills the functional need for identification and tracking while eliminating the harmful element of exposing sensitive personal information.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a subject anonymously orders a laboratory test without providing identifying information, then confidentiality is preserved, but the system cannot properly track and deliver results to the correct subject
Solution Approach 1:
The identifier code serves as an intermediary that carries the necessary information linkage function without containing actual personal identifying data. It enables the system to track the test through processing while maintaining anonymity, thus preventing information loss about test status while protecting subject identity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of identification from personal identifying information (name, address, etc.) to a non-identifying code. This parameter transformation maintains the functional capability of tracking and delivering results while eliminating the loss of confidential information.
3Ease of manufacture
If a laboratory technician knows the type of test being performed, then the test can be properly processed, but the subject's test confidentiality is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the identifier code as an intermediary that allows the laboratory information system to retrieve test type information from a database without the technician directly seeing or knowing the test type. The code mediates between the technician's need to process the correct test and the need to maintain test confidentiality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of direct information disclosure (technician knowing test type) with an automated information retrieval system. The system automatically retrieves test type information based on the identifier code without human intervention, thus enabling proper test processing while maintaining confidentiality through automation rather than human knowledge.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for ordering laboratory tests, performing laboratory tests, and providing results thereof are provided. Laboratory tests may be ordered, performed, and the results of the tests provided to a subject without a subject being required to provide information relating to his or her identity.