"If a system only works when cognitive capacity is maxed out, it isn't efficient—it's fragile"

Parallel Processing, Human Factors, and the Ethics of How We Investigate Error

Volume 40 Number 2 | April 2026 Summary The article explains how parallel processing affects medical laboratory work and why errors often stem from cognitive overload rather than individual negligence. Drawing on human factors and neurobiology, it urges root cause analyses to examine system‑imposed cognitive demands, interruptions, and missing supports. Understanding these pressures leads to…

Dhara Parekh

Patient Safety, Quality, and Ethics in Medical Laboratory Practice

Volume 40 Number 2 | April 2026 Summary The article explains how patient safety, quality, and ethics are deeply interconnected in laboratory medicine. Accurate testing, adherence to procedures, and ethical decision‑making protect patients throughout all testing phases. Real‑world examples show how professionalism guides difficult decisions, while emerging technologies like AI offer benefits but require careful…

Sean Witt

Improving Diagnostic Accuracy and Equity in Older Adults through Age-Adjusted Reference Intervals

Volume 40 Number 2 | April 2026 Summary The article argues that traditional reference intervals based on younger adults often misclassify normal age‑related changes in older patients as disease. Age‑adjusted intervals improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce over diagnosis, and support ethical, patient‑centered care. While challenging to develop, they help prevent harm, reduce anxiety, and promote more…

Candidates running for ASCLS office in 2026-27

Society News Now – March 2026

PAMA Reporting Window Opens May 1—What Labs Need to Know | Meet the Candidates for ASCLS National Office | Apply for ASCLS Awards and Scholarships | ASCLS Awards and Scholarships | Volunteer Opportunities | and More PAMA Reporting Window Opens May 1—What Labs Need to Know On Thursday, March 12, the Centers for Medicare and…

Candidates running for ASCLS office in 2026-27

Meet the Candidates 2026

Volume 40 Number 2 | April 2026 The ASCLS Nominations Committee is pleased to present the following candidates for office in the 2026-27 Society year. Candidates selected by ASCLS members will take office during the 2026 ASCLS, AGT & SAFMLS Joint Annual Meeting. Members will elect one president-elect; three 3-year term directors; one 5-year term…

2026 Clinical Laboratory Educators Conference Registration Desk

Society News Now – February 2026

PAMA Cuts Delayed but Advocacy for RESULTS Act Continues | Department of Education Draft Regulations Spark Concern Over “Professional” Degree Definitions | Apply for ASCLS Awards and Scholarships | ASCLS Volunteer Opportunities | and More PAMA Cuts Delayed but Advocacy for RESULTS Act Continues On January 22, Congress passed a bipartisan consolidated appropriations package that…

Kyle B. Riding

Behind the Scenes, Ahead in Impact

Volume 40 Number 1 | February 2026 Summary The article highlights the vital, often unseen, impact of medical laboratory professionals, illustrated through a multidisciplinary simulation exercise. It emphasizes that their worth comes from life‑saving outcomes, not visibility or external recognition. Lab professionals are encouraged to value their expertise, share their stories, and advocate confidently for…

Melissa Kasper

Unsung Heroes: The Impact of Laboratory Professionals

Volume 40 Number 1 | February 2026 Summary Laboratory professionals may feel unseen, yet their work profoundly impacts patients. Through a story of identifying an abnormal specimen that led to a critical diagnosis, the article highlights how phlebotomists, medical laboratory scientists, and lab assistants make life‑changing differences every day. Even without public recognition, their vigilance…

Eleanor Guhl

The Voice of a New Technician

Volume 40 Number 1 | February 2026 Summary A new medical laboratory technician describes the shock of transitioning from supervised student work to making independent, high‑stakes clinical decisions. Initially overwhelmed by the responsibility, she gains confidence through mentorship and trust from colleagues. The article highlights the emotional weight of becoming a “hidden clinician” and the…

Stephanie Cochrane

Beyond the Classroom

Volume 40 Number 1 | February 2026 Summary Clinical laboratory science educators create a lasting impact beyond the classroom by shaping students’ diagnostic reasoning, professional communication, and commitment to patient safety. Through innovative pedagogy, mentorship, and workforce pipeline support, their choices ripple into stronger clinical practice, improved patient outcomes, and a more resilient profession, multiplying…