Carly Preston, MLS(ASCP)CM
As a first-time attendee for the 2024 Labvocate Symposium, I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect. However, I can tell you that the experience was more than I would have ever imagined.
We spent Monday hearing from ASCLS, American Medical Technologists (AMT), Philippine Association of Medical Technologists-USA (PAMET-USA), legislative aides, ASCLS Legislative Affairs Consultant Patrick Cooney, and other subject matter experts. They spent time giving all of us in the audience talking points and information on how to go out and speak with legislators. They let us know in real time what legislation the laboratory community is supporting and its impact on things such as workforce shortages and laboratory reimbursement/payment schedules. A massive collective effort was made to ensure we were all prepared to go forth and speak to our respective legislators.
Everyone was there with a common mission and goal to further the progress on laboratory legislation. As a first timer, I was immediately taken under the wings of others who had done this before and given real insight in what to expect, how to plan my day, and even given a vital lesson on navigating the D.C. Metro. I was unable to secure any meetings with my own state’s legislators, but that wasn’t a problem at all, as I was more than welcome to come with others to their legislative appointments, to be a supporter and to see how these meetings go. It felt amazing to be taken care of by my fellow laboratorians and welcomed with open arms.
The number one take away from the Labvocate Symposium is that our voice and impact together is multiplied exponentially compared to when we are on our own. If you would like to know what you can do to help, go to www.labvocate.org. On the website you will find updated information on the legislation the laboratory community is supporting, how to reach out to your own legislators, and how you can help make an impact in the Labvocate mission.
Carly Preston is the Director of Laboratory Services at Caldwell Memorial Hospital in Columbia, Louisiana.