Capstone Projects

UW Health Laboratory Automation and Standardization

Program: Healthcare Administration Master's Degree
Host Company: UW Health, Hospital and Clinics
Location: Madison, Wisconsin (hybrid)
Student: Samantha Wandel

Achieving healthcare outcomes at UW Health is supported through standardized workflows, automated tools, accurate data collection and reporting. Patient safety is a key emphasis. The Junction Road Mohs Laboratory automation and standardization project was completed to integrate the Epic® – Beaker® features into a standardized processing workflow. Implementing project results will support patient safety through automated labeling and reporting. Project outcomes address improved time efficiency, data collection and reporting, and standardization with all pathology laboratories within the UW Health system. The project addressed the first two phases of the original project plan.

Project Objectives    

  1. Standardize through organizational processes
  2. Improved data collection
  3. Improved time efficiency
  4. Improve patient safety through automation

“Throughout the Master of Science: Healthcare Administration extended campus program, I experienced educational, professional, and personal growth. As a current healthcare leader at a large not-for-profit healthcare organization, I found the classes to directly tie into my daily work through interactions with colleagues, and the broadening of my abilities to function as a positive change leader. The program experience culminated in my of the capstone project where I directly worked with interdepartmental leaders, physicians, and staff to improve the departments automation, standardization, quality, and most importantly safety. I believe this program and capstone project has better prepared me for my career in healthcare management and change leadership.”