Laboratories face mounting pressure to deliver faster results with flawless accuracy while managing complex workflows across multiple sites. Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) have evolved into mission-critical platforms that automate specimen tracking, integrate with EHRs, and provide real-time analytics—all while maintaining strict HIPAA compliance.
For pathology and clinical labs, the stakes are high. The right LIS eliminates manual errors, streamlines case assignment, and scales with growing test volumes. This curated list of the best LIS software highlights top platforms, starting with NovoPath—the clear leader for modern healthcare labs.
1. NovoPath – Top Choice for Pathology Labs
NovoPath leads the pack with its comprehensive anatomic pathology solution built specifically for high-volume labs. This best LIS for healthcare offers 360° case tracking from grossing station to final report, eliminating manual data entry across the entire workflow.
Key Strengths:
- Hands-free grossing with barcode scanners and voice recognition
- 150+ EMR integrations (Epic, Cerner, Meditech)
- Digital pathology support for remote slide review
- Automated pathologist assignment based on case complexity
- Real-time QA dashboards showing bottlenecks
Labs choose NovoPath because it scales without adding staff. Its cloud-based architecture handles unlimited concurrent users while maintaining SOC2 Type II security. Pathology groups report 40% faster turnaround times after implementation.
2. Epic Beaker
Epic Beaker dominates large hospital systems already using Epic EHR. Its strength lies in zero-context-switching—pathologists access cases directly from patient charts.
Pros: Native Epic integration, robust AP/CP workflows
Cons: Complex setup, premium pricing
Best for: Epic-centric health systems
3. Clinisys
Clinisys excels in multi-site lab networks with centralized data management. Its interoperability layer connects disparate instruments and LIS across locations.
Pros: Enterprise scalability, molecular/genetics support
Cons: Higher learning curve
Best for: Regional lab networks
4. Oracle Health PathNet
The Cerner legacy continues through Oracle’s PathNet—proven reliability for high-volume reference labs handling complex case types.
Pros: Battle-tested stability, broad instrument connectivity
Cons: Legacy interface
Best for: Large reference laboratories
5. Orchard Harvest
Orchard offers the sweet spot for mid-sized labs wanting usability without sacrificing functionality. Staff master it in days, not months.
Pros: Intuitive interface, affordable scaling
Cons: Limited digital pathology
Best for: Community hospitals, private labs
Feature Comparison: Top LIS Platforms
| Software | Cloud | EMR Integrations | Digital Pathology | Multi-Site | Starting Price |
| NovoPath | ✓ | 150+ | ✓ | ✓ | Custom Quote |
| Epic Beaker | ✓ | Epic-only | ✓ | ✓ | Enterprise |
| Clinisys | ✓ | 50+ | ✓ | ✓ | Enterprise |
| Oracle PathNet | Hybrid | 100+ | Limited | ✓ | Enterprise |
| Orchard Harvest | ✓ | 40+ | No | ✓ | $15K+ |
6. Sunquest
Sunquest powers global lab networks with rock-solid uptime (99.99%) and advanced rule-based workflows for complex testing menus.
Best for: High-volume clinical + pathology labs
7. SCC Soft Computer
SCC delivers unmatched customization for enterprise labs running genetics, molecular, and blood bank alongside core pathology.
Best for: Super-specialized testing centers
Why NovoPath Tops the List in 2026
Modern labs demand more than case tracking—they need predictive analytics, automated QA, and seamless EMR connectivity. NovoPath, the best lab management software, delivers all three with a pathology-first approach that eliminates workflow silos.
Key differentiators:
- Smart case distribution prevents backlog pileups
- Voice-enabled grossing cuts documentation time 60%
- Compliance automation (CAP, CLIA, HIPAA)
- Future-proof cloud architecture scales instantly
Choosing Your LIS Partner
Every lab has unique needs, but the best LIS software 2026 prioritizes interoperability, scalability, and pathologists’ time. NovoPath sets the standard for labs serious about digital transformation, while Epic Beaker and Clinisys serve massive enterprises.
Ready to streamline your pathology workflow? Evaluate based on your test volume, EMR environment, and growth trajectory. The right LIS for healthcare labs pays for itself through reduced errors and faster turnaround.
