Total clinical laboratory test volume in Connecticut, 1994-1995

To measure the volume of clinical laboratory testing in Connecticut during a one-year period. To explore the potential value of such data.

Summary and analysis of federal and state clinical laboratory registration/licensure/inspection forms.

2,333 clinical laboratory test facilities registered in Connecticut.

The total clinical laboratory output for Connecticut by type of facility and category of technology over a 12-month period.

During 1995, 2,333 registered clinical laboratory test facilities performed approximately 65,427,103 analyses in Connecticut. This represents approximately 20 tests per person per year. Thirty-five acute care hospitals performed 59.4%, nine large commercial laboratories 33.2%, 30 small commercial laboratories 1.7%, 1,491 physicians' offices 3.9%, and a miscellaneous group 1% of the tests. Test volumes are further segregated into eight major categories of technology: chemistry 59%, hematology 23.3%, microbiology 5.6%, blood banking 2.9%, coagulation 2.8%, waived tests 2.7%, urine analysis 1.8%, cytology 0.9%, and histology 0.8%.

For the first time mechanisms are in place to measure essentially all clinical testing for a given area. With minor changes the data collection system could be greatly improved. The possible uses for such a data bank are discussed.