Medical Laboratory Science

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission for the Medical Laboratory Science Department at Winston-Salem State University is to provide students with the appropriate education and training to develop entry-level competencies in all routine areas of the medical laboratory and maintain high quality program standards as set forth by the National Accrediting Agency for Medical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

ABOUT THE PROFESSION

Medical Laboratory Science professionals employ intricate medical laboratory test procedures to assist physicians in evaluating the medical conditions of their patients. The medical laboratory science profession is concerned with providing medical information based on the performance of analytical tests on substances to detect or prevent disease impairment and to promote and monitor good health.

The medical laboratory professional is qualified by academic and applied science education to provide service and research in medical laboratory science and related areas in rapidly changing and dynamic healthcare delivery systems. Medical laboratory professionals perform, develop, evaluate, correlate, and assure accuracy and validity of laboratory information; direct and supervise medical laboratory resources and operations; and collaborate in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. The medical laboratory professional has diverse and multi-level functions in the areas of analysis and clinical decision-making, information management, regulatory compliance, education, and quality assurance/performance improvement wherever laboratory testing is researched, developed, or performed. Medical laboratory professionals possess skills for financial, operations, marketing, and human resource management of the medical laboratory. Medical laboratory professionals practice independently and collaboratively, being responsible for their own actions, as defined by the profession. They have the requisite knowledge and skills to educate laboratory professionals, other health care professionals, and others in laboratory practice as well as the public. Entry level competencies include proficiency in performing the full range of clinical laboratory tests in areas such as hematology, clinical chemistry, immunohematology, microbiology, serology/ immunology, and coagulation. Molecular and other emerging diagnostics will play a role in the development and evaluation of test systems and interpretive algorithms.

The ability to relate to people, a capacity for calm and reasoned judgment, and a demonstration of commitment to the patient are essential qualities. Communications skills extend to consultative interactions with members of the healthcare team, external relations, customer service, and patient education. Laboratory professionals demonstrate ethical and moral attitudes and principles that are necessary for gaining and maintaining the confidence of patients, professional associates, and the community.

Graduates of this program are prepared for positions in clinical and research laboratories, hospitals, public health agencies, doctors’ offices, institutions, pharmaceutical companies, industrial laboratories, and some marketing and consulting agencies.

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