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Published on: September 1, 2017
Consumer satisfaction to laboratory test interpretation by the ASCLS response team
Stacy L Baker1, Kathy V Waller
1Clinical Skills Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA. baker.866@osu.edu
Summary
Consumers reported high satisfaction with responses from the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) Consumer Response Team. This service effectively addresses public inquiries about laboratory test interpretations.
Area of Science:
- Consumer Health
- Laboratory Science
- Public Health Communication
Background:
- The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) established a Consumer Response Team to address public inquiries regarding laboratory test interpretations.
- Understanding consumer satisfaction with these responses is crucial for evaluating the program's effectiveness and impact on health literacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate consumer satisfaction with interpretations of laboratory tests provided by the ASCLS Consumer Response Team.
- To analyze demographic factors, response receipt, and the disciplines associated with consumer inquiries.
Main Methods:
- A computerized questionnaire was distributed to 339 individuals who had submitted questions via the ASCLS website.
- Usable data from 99 participants (29.3% response rate) were analyzed.
- Satisfaction was measured using Likert scales for both response quality and website usability.
Main Results:
- The majority of respondents were female (71.1%) and aged 36-64 years (71.7%).
- Seventy-six percent of participants received an answer to their laboratory test questions.
- Chemistry, immunology, and hematology were the most common disciplines for inquiries.
Conclusions:
- Consumers expressed high satisfaction with the interpretations provided by clinical laboratory scientist volunteers.
- The ASCLS Consumer Response Team model effectively serves the public, contributing to healthcare advancement.
- The program demonstrates a successful approach to public engagement in laboratory science.
