By Peter Hu, PhD, MS, CG(ASCP)^CM, CLS ^CM, MB ^CM, FACSc

Long before the ongoing hot topic of IPE, NAACLS has been promoting this concept through our accreditation and approval processes. For example, our self study and site visit review processes. These external peer-review based processes, which oversee nine different disciplines, rely on experts across these disciplines during self study reviews and site visits. Subsequent reviews, such as interim and progress reports, are also conducted by peer reviewers working in committees consisting of mixed discipline representatives. NAACLS review processes bring together discipline-specific experts who create a cross-pollination of ideas that demonstrates IPE in action. Furthermore, NAACLS has always supported innovation in education and accreditation to beyond just delivery systems but also clinical experiences and unique partnerships. For example, NAACLS recently approved allowing non secondary education institutions to sponsor NAACLS approved Clinical Assistant and Phlebotomy programs. Cross-pollination of disciplines and education innovation are in sync with current initiatives promoted by the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and US Department of Education.

I am truly humbled to be given the opportunity to lead a talented and dedicated group of individuals who all believe in the Mission of NAACLS; “Committed to being the premier international agency for accreditation and approval of education programs in the clinical laboratory sciences and related health professions through the involvement of expert volunteers and its commitment to public service.”

As you know, NAACLS never sleeps. Below I will try to capture some of recent activities:

AMS Project – The AMS project is temporarily on hold while the Board reviews the project and investigates alternative ways to augment technology in accreditation. A subcommittee has formed to start looking at these alternatives. More updates to follow.

NAACLS Presence at CLEC 2020 – NAACLS once again will be collaborating with ASCLS-CLEC at the 2020 conference in Orlando, FL by offering a workshop titled, “Get Excited About Not Being Cited – The Insiders’ Edition of Commonly Cited Standards.” (Please note: Registration is separate from that of the CLEC.)  The workshop date is set for Thursday, February 27, 2020 from 7:00am – 12:00pm. Current NAACLS review committee members, Dawn Tripolino and Dale Telgenhoff, will provide an exclusive look at the most frequent citations. Ms. Tripolino and Dr. Telgenhoff will present detailed strategies to assist program directors to avoid frequent pitfalls. For more information, please go to https://www.naacls.org/News/Workshops/Get-Excited-About-Not-Being-Cited-–-The-Insiders’.aspx . NAACLS will also have an exhibit booth at the conference. We invite you to stop by!

Volunteer Achievement Award – A few months ago, there was a general announcement calling for nominations for this award. In 2020, we will recognize an individual for this inaugural award at our fall board meeting in Portland, Maine. This individual will be recognized for his/her lifelong services to NAACLS as a volunteer. This year, we have received more than half a dozen nominations and we hope that number will double or even triple in the years to come.

Volunteers by the Numbers – As of September 2019, we have 332 volunteers. This is an increase of 84 new members since April 2019.  FANTASTIC! Furthermore, our VIP mentors have also increased by 18 for 35 total VIP mentors.

Volunteering is important to me. I see it as an extension of my continuing internship always improving my own skill sets including networking and exchanging of ideas. However, the best part is meeting new lifelong friends.

Until next time,

Peter