Certified Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS) professionals are in high demand across the healthcare system. Career advancement opportunities are also widely available, as laboratory Leads or Directors of CLS or Laboratory Medicine (generally for individuals with advanced academic degrees).
Certification and oversight
For the critical role of laboratory science and validated testing practices in health care delivery and patient outcomes, the system of oversight is rigorous and comprehensive.
- The Joint Commission currently accredits nearly 2,000 hospital and healthcare organization laboratory services in the U.S.
- The number rises to almost 3,000 including reference labs, in vitro fertilization labs, and labs in other health-related settings.
- There are some 254,000 laboratory entities certified under the regulation of the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA).
- CLIA is implemented by the Division of Laboratory Services, which operates under the auspices of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
Emphasis on patient safety and care quality
In recent years, the field of CLS and Medical Technology has shifted away from an operational model primarily based on technical efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The emphasis now aligns more closely with achieving improved outcomes based on measures of patient safety and healthcare quality, while maintaining technical and value standards.
This transition has come about over time mainly as a result of evidence-based assessments leading to revised best practice initiatives under the CLIA. The purpose of the certification standards is to foster and advocate for continuous improvement in the practice of CLS and laboratory medicine for all patient care.
Advances in science and technology
CLS is continuously affected by advances in the broader world of science and technology, concerning hardware and equipment as well as medical applications. It is not surprising that CLS professionals continually upgrade their technical knowledge and expertise to stay at the leading edge of their practice.
Interim Directors of Clinical Lab Science
Opportunities frequently arise for interim Directors of Clinical Laboratory Science and Lab Managers. These positions are uniquely positioned to influence virtually all phases of health care delivery through this central and dynamic role. Get in touch with NHS Solutions‘ best-in-class onboarding team. We take care of everything so that you can take care of business in the lab.