Education and training programmes of the IFCC in clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine: Improving the quality of professional practice in laboratory medicine

When quality is referred to in clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine, the focus is mainly on the analytical process. But good professional quality starts with a sound education. In an attempt to describe the practice of clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine in the 15 member states of the "old" European Union, it was noticed that (sometimes) large differences existed in the way professionals are being trained (see: Sanders et al, Clin Chem Lab Med 2002; 40: 196-204). With that outcome, a survey of the Websites of the different Member Societies and Corporate Members of IFCC was conducted. It showed that less than one third of either two groups paid attention to, or offered, education. This led to a series of questions to a non-representative group of colleagues outside the former EU who were willing to give more insight in the educational system of their country. All colleagues were known to be involved actively in clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine. The outcome did not give a uniform pattern, since every country regulates health care in its own way, according to its own historical development, needs, social vision, etc. From that a number of conclusions have been drawn: a. Proper University Training is required to enter vocational training b. Regulated Vocational Training seems to be necessary (4 years) c. A clear Syllabus as an indicative guide to the vocational training is important d. Management training should be included since a clinical chemist will have organizational responsibilities as well e. Examinations may help in improving the quality of the education f. Official Register, recognized by Law, is essential, but not always existing h. Re-Registration can be seen as part of the Quality Cycle. Finally, some attention is being paid to the activities of the EMD. This Division of the IFCC provides the membership of IFCC and the health-care community with education which it considers relevant to Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine. It is the intention of EMD to improve the quality of the profession by educational activities in molecular biology, evidence based laboratory medicine, quality assurance, distance education, and laboratory management. Specific projects are a Master Course in Laboratory Science, a course in Flowcytometry, and the Visiting Lecturer Program which supports national societies in inviting lecturers on specific topics. More information can be found on the IFCC Web-site (www.ifcc.org). In the future, it is to be expected that emphasis on education in our profession will be on the clinical use of tests, modern media and e-learning, and specific courses in new technologies. EMD works continuously to improve the quality of clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine. The input from all National Societies is appreciated to discern topics most relevant to the membership of IFCC. .