Intro Admin

Introduction to MEDT 4593: Laboratory Administration, Ethics, and Education

• Laboratorio Clínico aims to develop knowledge and competencies for efficient performance in the medical technologist profession.

• Emphasizes the responsible use of scarce resources in organizations.

Importance of a Course in Administration

• Understand the need for administrative knowledge in the context of a clinical laboratory.

Definition and Scope of Clinical Laboratory Science

• Clinical laboratory science involves:

  • Design, performance, evaluation, reporting, interpretation, and clinical correlation of laboratory tests.

  • Management of all aspects of laboratory services.

  • ASCLS defines the profession broadly, noting the importance of various examinations derived from the human body.

• CLIA 88 and legislation: Establishes guidelines for clinical laboratories.

Historical Development of Laboratories

• Key milestones in laboratory history:

  • First examinations of human fluids by Hippocrates (300 B.C.)

  • Establishment of the first clinical laboratory at Johns Hopkins (1896).

  • Significant discoveries of infectious diseases (1880s-1890s).

Current Role of Clinical Laboratories

• Approximately 70% of medical decisions today are based on clinical laboratory results.

• Influence of organizations such as ASCP in establishing laboratory standards and certification.

Important Local Laws in Laboratory Profession Development

• Overview of critical laws influencing the clinical laboratory field in Puerto Rico:

  • Law 154 (1939): First regulation of clinical analysis personnel requirements.

  • Law 90 (1957): Sets minimum educational requirements.

  • Law 97 (1965): Establishment and operation of laboratories.

  • Law 44 (1972): Compulsory licensing.

Key Factors Impacting Clinical Laboratories

• Interconnected factors influencing laboratory profession:

  • Economic conditions.

  • Demographic changes.

  • New technology and regulations.

  • Shift towards a cost-value relationship in laboratory economics.

Cost, Price, and Value in Laboratory Testing

• Cost: Actual dollar amount to produce lab results.

• Price: Amount charged to third parties for lab services.

• Value: Benefit of the lab test in clinical decision-making, highlighting the importance of cost-effectiveness.

Healthcare System Efficiency Challenges

• Need for improved efficiency in resource management within healthcare.

• Challenges of ensuring quality while reducing costs through health reforms.

The Need for Meaningful Clinical Laboratory Information

• Laboratories must provide useful information that significantly impacts patient management.

• Changing culture within service providers to avoid unnecessary tests.

Demographic Changes Influencing Laboratory Services

• Aging population and workforce in laboratory services.

• Increased demand for healthcare professionals, including medical technologists.

• Need for effective team collaboration with medical faculty.

Quality and Appropriate Use of Laboratory Services

• Quality remains paramount in clinical laboratories.

• Emphasis on appropriate laboratory use for efficient and effective diagnosis and treatment.

Paradigm Shift in Laboratory Models

• Need for a change from traditional payment models.

• New interactive laboratory model emphasizing full engagement in the testing process alongside physicians.

Components of the Interactive Laboratory Model

• Stages of laboratory testing:

  • Preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical phases.

• Emphasis on cooperation between technologists and physicians for test ordering and result interpretation.

Preparing for the Interactive Laboratory Environment

• Importance of ongoing education in:

  • Molecular biology techniques.

  • Problem-solving and management skills.

• Emphasis on understanding behavioral sciences and administrative philosophies.

Skills and Attitudes Required for Laboratory Professionals

• Strong communication skills including active listening.

• Ability to engage in effective counseling and relationship building.

• Ethical integrity and adaptability within organizational culture.

Educational and Professional Standards in Clinical Laboratory Science

• Definition and objectives for maintaining quality standards in educational programs (NAACLS Standards).

• Role of medical laboratory scientists in ensuring accuracy and quality of laboratory tests.

Essential Skills for Medical Laboratory Scientists

• Technological skills, problem-solving, quality assurance practices, and communication.

• Ethical and moral responsibilities in fostering trust with patients and healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

• The preparation and ongoing development of medical laboratory scientists are critical to adapting to a constantly evolving healthcare landscape and improving patient outcomes.