Do not use the paper report when a dematerialized report or electronic health record is available.

Oct 15, 2025

Do not use the paper report when a dematerialized report or electronic health record is available.

Type of practice

Other health practices

Age

Topic Area

Laboratory Medicine

The dematerialization of medical reports represents a fundamental tool in achieving environmental objectives, through the reduction of natural resource consumption and waste production, thereby supporting the promotion of a circular economy.
The digitalization of processes and laboratory examinations can lead to a significant decrease in energy consumption and help reduce pollution associated with the production, transportation, and disposal of materials, especially when accompanied by energy-efficiency strategies. In this context, the Electronic Health Record (EHR) provides a comprehensive overview of the patient’s clinical history, enabling healthcare professionals to make more informed decisions, tailor treatments, and deliver more appropriate care.
Laboratory professionals, too, must encourage the use of the EHR for report access, which is currently used by just over one in three citizens.

Sources

1. Fragão-Marques M, Ozben T. Digital transformation and sustainability in healthcare and clinical laboratories. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022;61:627-33. doi: 10.1515/cclm-2022-1092
2. Stoumpos AI, Kitsios F, Talias MA. Digital Transformation in Healthcare: Technology Acceptance and Its Applications. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023;20:3407. doi: 10.3390/ijerph20043407.
3. Pattaro AF. Fascicolo Sanitario Elettronico: cos’è, a che serve e come attivarlo. https://www.agendadigitale.eu/sanita/fascicolo-sanitario-elettronico-cose-e-a-che-punto-e-la-guida/ (ultimo accesso: maggio 2025).
4. Fondazione per la sanità digitale. Osservatorio Salute Sostenibile 2024. https://sostenibilitadigitale.it/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Comunicato-stampa-2-aprile-2024-Osservatorio-Salute-Sostenibile.pdf. (ultimo accesso: maggio 2025).

Download

PDF

Attention. Please note that these items are provided only for information and are not intended as a substitute for consultation with a clinician. Patients with any specific questions about the items on this list or their individual situation should consult their clinician.