Since 1933, the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (formerly ASMT) has helped clinical laboratory professionals meet the challenges of the profession. To reflect the heightened professionalism of our members, we changed our name in 1993. Formerly known as the American Society for Medical Technology (ASMT), we believe our current title better equips us to champion the profession and ensure that other members of the health care field - as well as the public - fully recognize the contributions of clinical laboratory professionals. Our new name is also in keeping with recommendations of the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS) and the National Certification Agency for Medical Laboratory Personnel (NCA), and conforms to the nomenclature used in many professional education programs across the country.

What ASCLS is About

The Society has long been concerned with advocacy for the laboratory professional. Historically, ASCLS has represented the generalist, but in recent years has embraced membership for specialists and other members of the laboratory team.

ASCLS has established a Scope of Practice and Code of Ethics for practitioners, a Quality Assurance System, and various Self assessment documents. ASCLS is represented in education accreditation activities through NAACLS and in certification via the NCA.

ASCLS has also been a driving force in the legislative arena, most recently in preventing Representative Bill Archer from exempting physician office laboratories from CLIA '88 regulations. And, ASCLS wrote an amicus brief that convinced the National Labor Relations Board to include medical technologists among its professional employees.

The greatest strength of ASCLS is its members, and the structure of the organization reflects that strength. The Society, realizing that a national framework alone cannot adequately meet members' needs on local, state and regional levels, has established ten geographical regions throughout the country.

Each region has its own officers and an elected representative who is a member of the ASCLS Board of Directors. Within these regions are the State Societies that also elect officers and representatives to the regional boards. State Societies generally maintain local chapters or districts. This national to chapter structure has proven successful in having the Society address the concerns and needs of its members at every level. Under the direction of the ASCLS Board of Directors, the Society is equipped to use its resources to address issues and concerns that affect the membership on a national level while remaining available to support its regional, state and local societies.

No other association for clinical laboratory professionals can match the activities of ASCLS's local, state and regional societies. Each offers scientific expertise, a network for getting to know your colleagues and for having your voice heard on issues that affect your work life.

Opportunities for Participation

ASCLS provides a wealth of opportunities for active participation. Whether you want to be involved in addressing governmental concerns, advance scientific and technical standards or network with others, ASCLS opens doors for you. Sign up for an ASCLS committee and channel your energies into areas such as government affairs, education, publications, membership development or any one of ASCLS's twelve Scientific Assemblies. Committee assignments are available at the state, regional and national levels. Find and follow a path that suits your interests.