#$%^&*AU2011221379B220120823.pdf#####ABSTRACT A method for accessing patient data, the method comprising: (a) providing a plurality of instruments configured for direct communication there between to a network, each instrument comprising a sampling member for contacting a body fluid sample from a patient and acquiring patient data therefrom (b) communicating via a communications module for facilitating direct electronic bidirectional communication between a first instrument and a second instrument in the plurality of instruments wherein the direct electronic bidirectional communication comprises controlling the first instrument by the second instrument and controlling the second instrument by the first instrument (c) processing by the first instrument the body fluid sample, wherein the second instrument is controlling the processing and (d) accessing, by the second instrument directly from the first instrument, the acquired patient data. C:\NRPonb\DCC\MKAUS55980_1.DOC - 5/9/1I115 C E 0 E 0 0 oE -0 a)) z UGo 00
