Delivering Better Decisions, Faster: The Power of Lab Data at St James’s

The Critical Role of Data in Clinical Decision-Making

Clinical decisions begin with data. And across Ireland’s healthcare system, few places generate more of it—or rely on it more deeply—than the laboratory at St James’s Hospital, the country’s largest acute teaching hospital.

As the largest pathology lab in the country, St James’s processes over 12 million tests each year. With more than 70% of clinical decisions informed by lab results, the accuracy, speed, and reliability of this data is fundamental—not just to diagnosis and treatment, but to patient safety and outcomes.

Why Modernising Lab Systems Matters

Modernising lab systems is about much more than technology—it’s about impact. In partnership with Dedalus, St James’s have transitioned their Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), iLab Telepath, from on-premise servers to a cloud environment.

This move has enhanced system resilience, ensures greater uptime, provides secure, real time access to laboratory data and is more responsive. The cloud based architecture enables seamless scalability and faster deployment of updates – supporting the needs of modern laboratories.

The result is a platform that helps scientists and clinicians access vital lab data quickly, confidently, and in a way that fits within their existing workflows. In high-pressure environments delivering acute and complex care, that kind of reliability can make all the difference.

Supporting Ireland’s Digital for Care 2030 Vision

More broadly, it reflects the ambitions set out in Ireland’s Digital for Care 2030 strategy: building a more connected, data-informed healthcare system where digital tools empower frontline professionals and improve patient outcomes.

Lab data might happen behind the scenes, but its impact is felt at every bedside. St James’s and Dedalus are proud to be working together to ensure that this critical part of the health system is ready to meet the needs of clinicians and the patients they care for.