Every year, the Clinical Laboratory Educators Conference (CLEC) brings together a vibrant community of educators who share ideas, swap practical tools, and leave inspired to elevate their programs. The stories below—from program directors who once felt overwhelmed, to seasoned educators who still discover something new each year—show just how transformative CLEC can be. Whether it’s…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary The authors argue that casual stereotypes about medical laboratory professionals—such as calling them introverts or saying they don’t like people—undermine inclusion and belonging. These labels flatten the profession’s diversity and can alienate colleagues. They urge intentional, respectful language and highlight ASCLS efforts that foster community, emphasizing that…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary The author, a data-driven perfectionist, shares why discussing DEIB feels uncomfortable yet essential. Drawing on veterinary and clinical laboratory experience, she argues that growth requires practice, safe spaces, and grace for mistakes. She proposes using structured methods like SOAP to improve DEIB communication and metrics within ASCLS,…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary This article highlights the impact of inclusion in clinical laboratories, especially for LGBTQ+ professionals and patients. The author shares experiences of witnessing bias and emphasizes how discrimination harms both teamwork and patient care. Feeling genuinely welcomed at the ASCLS, AGT & SAFMLS Joint Annual Meeting reinforced the…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary This article explores the difference between fitting in and true belonging, emphasizing that belonging begins with honoring one’s authentic self. Using neuroscience and practical strategies—pausing, regulating with support, and seeking genuine connection—it encourages medical laboratory professionals to build psychological safety, reduce division, and strengthen teamwork by showing…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary This article explains how integrating diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) strengthens laboratory teams, reduces burnout, and improves patient care. Through supportive leadership, cross-training, psychological safety, and clear communication, medical laboratories build trust, resilience, and collaboration. Applying DEIB principles creates healthier workplace culture and more effective, connected…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary Artificial intelligence has advanced healthcare, but biased data and flawed algorithms can create inequities in diagnosis and treatment. Studies show AI tools can reinforce racial, gender, and testing-rate disparities, especially in laboratory medicine. This article urges careful development, monitoring, and transparent use of AI to ensure accuracy,…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary ASCLS fosters belonging by promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion so all laboratorians feel visible and valued. Through the Diversity Advocacy Council, PRISM, inclusive leadership pathways, and DEIB-focused programs, ASCLS strengthens professional identity and community. This article urges members to support one another, elevate underrepresented voices, and help…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Summary Precision oncology is essential today, not someday. Matching cancer treatments to a tumor’s unique molecular profile can save lives, but widespread adoption is limited by choosing the right tests, balancing cost with value, and integrating complex tools into real-world workflows. Laboratory professionals play a critical role in…
Volume 39 Number 6 | December 2025 Abstract Peripheral smear analysis has been a cornerstone of hematological diagnostics for decades, providing invaluable insights into the morphological characteristics of blood cells. However, traditional manual methods are time-intensive, subjective, and prone to variability. The advent of automated technologies has revolutionized this field, offering enhanced accuracy, reproducibility, and…