Normalization of Reference Ranges for Laboratory Tests Using a Novel Rescaling Approach for Optimal Clinical Interpretation.

Laboratory result interpretation is often hindered by variability in reference ranges across different institutions and analytes. This inconsistency can delay clinical decisions and increase cognitive effort. We present a normalization method that transforms laboratory values into dimensionless scores using simple rescaling formulas based on the reference range. By converting values to a 0 to 1 or -1 to 1 scale, this approach allows intuitive assessment and direct comparison across different tests, regardless of their original units. It simplifies recognition of abnormal values, enhances clinical efficiency, and is suitable for integration into electronic health records and algorithmic tools. Applied to common laboratory tests, the method demonstrated improved interpretability and clarity. Normalizing lab values in this way offers a practical, scalable solution to support faster and more accurate clinical decision-making.