Who are we?

The clinical laboratory scientist is a vital member of the health care team. Advances in modern medicine have led to a great demand for skillfully performed laboratory tests to aid the physician in the diagnosis of a patient's condition. The complexity and importance of laboratory tests require highly trained clinical laboratory scientists. The major responsibilities of a laboratory scientist include analysis of patients' samples in the specialties of chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology, transfusion services and molecular techniques. The results are used to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. A CLS may choose to work as a generalist or to specialize in one area such as microbiology or hematology. They work under the direction of a Ph.D. or a pathologist who acts as the laboratory director. There is a broad spectrum of technology available from a fully automated chemistry laboratory to the manual methods of transfusion services. Laboratory technology requires good technical ability and excellent critical thinking skills. Management and computer skills and an understanding of state and national regulations are also important. Individuals interested in the clinical laboratory profession should be in good health, interested in science, have a deep concern for people and be able to communicate effectively with patients and co-workers.