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ATOP®
Analyzing Test Ordering Patterns™
ATOP Analytic Review
The ATOP analytical team includes pathologists, data analysts, and University of Utah School of Medicine faculty. These experienced team members evaluate lab test volumes and costs against ARUP data. The extensive database contains more than 10 years of archived lab test utilization and results from hundreds of hospitals and laboratories nationwide. An ATOP report assesses whether data patterns are consistent with recommended guidelines and best practices.
Some of the patterns analyzed include:
- Lab test order volumes of tests related to the same condition
- Lab test volumes relevant to all ARUP clients
- Age, sex, and/or result distributions
ATOP Reports
After detailed analysis, an individualized ATOP report in both electronic and printed form is delivered. If requested, an ARUP pathologist will explain the report and answer questions via Web conference.
The report explains opportunities for improving specific test-ordering patterns, such as:
- Appropriate use of first-line laboratory tests
- Inappropriate use of obsolete laboratory tests
- Clinically significant differences in sensitivity and specificity of laboratory tests
- Clinical equivalency of less expensive laboratory tests
Recommendations are based on national guidelines, published clinical studies, industry best practices, and the expertise of over 75 ARUP pathologists and University of Utah medical school faculty.
From June 30, 2006, to July 1, 2007, ARUP made recommendations that would have potentially saved clients $2.5 million. Recommendations during that time period would have saved an average client just over $40,000, or four percent, in laboratory-testing expenses. For one high-volume client, the ATOP team identified a potential savings of $263,469, or 13.7 percent of its laboratory-testing expenses.
For more information or to request a custom analysis, contact your ATOP analyst at ATOP@aruplab.com or (800) 522-2787, ext. 3541.
Downloads
- Case Studies
- Better Use of Laboratory Testing Due to ATOP Findings
- Sample Reports
- PSA testing
- H. pylori infection
- Related Information
- Jackson, Brian. “The Value of Data Mining.” Advance for Administrators of the Laboratory, January 2009.
- Jackson, Brian. “Managing Laboratory Test Use: Principles and Tools.” Clinics In Laboratory Medicine 27, no. 4 (December 2007): 733–48.
- “ATOP Helps Labs Cut Costs
and Minimize Waste.”
Washington G2 Reports, Diagnostic Testing and Technology Report. - “Analyzing Ordering Patterns Helps Labs Cut Costs and Minimize Waste.”
Washington G2 Reports, Laboratory Industry Report. - ARUP Laboratories' ARUP Consult® named Gold Winner of 2007 eHealthcare Leadership Awards.