ASCLS Today is the membership newsletter of the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science.
To submit an article for ASCLS Today, contact Editor Debra Rodahl.
Volume 40 Number 4 | August 2026 Summary The article discusses the critical role of laboratory professionals in healthcare, highlighting challenges such as workforce shortages, burnout, and limited public recognition. The author emphasizes the importance of professional advocacy, interprofessional collaboration, workforce development, and technological support to ensure patient safety and sustain the laboratory medicine workforce.…
Volume 40 Number 4 | August 2026 Summary The article reflects on a meeting of the ASCLS-Wisconsin scholarship committee where members representing four generations of mentor–mentee leadership lineages shared their commitment to nurturing future leaders. The author highlights the state constituent society’s vibrant, innovative, and mentorship-driven leadership culture that sustains its strength and relevance. A…
Volume 40 Number 3 | June 2026 Summary This article emphasizes that while laboratory professionals have traditionally been defined by work at the bench, the future requires visible, active collaboration across healthcare teams. By embracing interprofessional roles, advancing education, and advocating for broader engagement, laboratorians can enhance patient care, reduce errors, and help shape a…
Volume 40 Number 3 | June 2026 Summary The article explores how workforce challenges—not just technology—are shaping the future of the clinical laboratory. It highlights staffing shortages, burnout, and outdated systems, and advocates for innovation in training, competency validation, and mentorship. Emphasizing community-driven solutions, it calls on laboratorians to lead sustainable change through thoughtful integration…
Volume 40 Number 3 | June 2026 Summary This article explores the future of laboratory advocacy, highlighting ongoing challenges like reimbursement and workforce shortages, emerging roles for laboratorians as diagnostic consultants, and potential impacts of innovation. It emphasizes that active advocacy, education, and engagement are essential for shaping policies and protecting patient care. Debbie Shell,…
Volume 40 Number 3 | June 2026 Summary This article highlights the ongoing medical laboratory workforce shortage, its causes, and its impact on patient care and professionals. It emphasizes proposed federal legislation to expand training capacity and retention, and calls for advocacy from laboratory professionals to help address the crisis and strengthen the future of…
Volume 40 Number 3 | June 2026 Summary This article argues that medical laboratory scientists are central to the success of cell and gene therapies, serving as both the manufacturing process and quality gatekeepers. It highlights evolving technical demands, regulatory complexity, and workforce gaps, calling for earlier integration, stronger training, and recognition of laboratorians’ critical…
Volume 40 Number 3 | June 2026 Summary The article outlines a vision for the “Laboratory of the Future” as a technologically advanced, data-driven, and collaborative environment. It emphasizes integrating AI and data science to improve efficiency, compliance, and financial outcomes, while repositioning laboratories as strategic assets. Empowered professionals, stronger clinical partnerships, and proactive advocacy…
Volume 40 Number 3 | June 2026 Summary This article argues that medical laboratory education must evolve beyond memorization to emphasize diagnostic reasoning. It highlights the importance of case-based learning, simulation, and reflective practices to develop analytical thinking. By fostering pattern recognition, clinical interpretation, and confidence, educators can better prepare students to contribute meaningfully to…
Volume 40 Number 3 | June 2026 Summary This article argues that medical laboratory science programs must evolve to prepare professionals for expanded roles in population health. It highlights integrating public health competencies, community engagement, and service-learning into curricula, enabling laboratorians to connect lab data with broader health trends and actively contribute to community health,…