A Professional Doctorate in Clinical Laboratory Science?-Not so Fast

Clinical Laboratory Science, Summer 2005 by Fritsma, George A

Higher education is perhaps the most promising DCLS opportunity. Universities insist on doctorally prepared faculty, and anyone who reads the discussion boards knows we need more. There are too few CLSs with doctorates in related sciences such as pathology, microbiology, pharmacology, biochemistry, or education to fill the pipeline. Indeed, in their haste to fill positions with PhDs, universities have taken the questionable step of employing non-CLS PhDs, scientists who can ostensibly write grants but who possess a peripheral knowledge of the profession; a short-term, often damaging solution. Conversely, a DCLS in education would have to have a competitive and sustained research record.

The final possibility is the in vitro diagnostics and the reference laboratory industries. Employing business models, instrument and reagent manufacturers perceive the need for professional spokespersons to address clinical customers. Reference laboratories and pharmaceutical distributors are also moving in this direction. There is little tradition, but a growing trend toward physicians and non-CLS PhDs. The DCLS would be an excellent fit in this niche, but would have to prove their worth.

In the end, the DCLS concept could work if we:

* find a way to create acceptable communication among DCLS, medical, surgical, pharmacy, and nursing practitioners.

* estimate the number of potential DCLS positions and learn who currently occupies them.

* develop a welcome for the DCLS in positions currently occupied by clinical pathologists and PhD basic scientists.

* develop a business plan to illustrate that a DCLS will be productive enough in cost analysis, utilization review, outcomes assessment, and risk reduction to be fiscally attractive to all size institutions.

* assess the potential for establishing DCLS research tracks that fit within the higher education structure.

* market aggressively.

George A Fritsma MSMT(ASCP), Continuing Education Editor.