Episode 174: Dr Rodney Rhode – From CLS to MLS: A Journey In Standardization And Advocacy
On this episode Dr Rodney Rhode discusses his involvement with the ASCP’s Blueprint for Action to address workforce shortages in the laboratory. He highlights the efforts of various organizations to create solutions and improve the situation, emphasizing that the workforce challenges existed prior to COVID-19 but were exacerbated by the pandemic.
Dr. Rhode explains the importance of aligning titles and credentials across different organizations and programs to create a unified identity for medical laboratory scientists. Transitioning from various titles like CLS (Clinical Laboratory Scientist) to MLS (Medical Laboratory Scientist) can establish a clear and recognizable identity that reflects the rigorous education and critical role these professionals play in healthcare.
The process of standardizing titles and credentials involves collaboration with professional organizations, regulatory bodies, and educational institutions. Dr. Rhode shares his journey of leading the effort to change the program name at Texas State University from CLS to MLS. This two-year process involved collecting data, engaging with faculty, alumni, and students, navigating institutional procedures, and obtaining approvals at various levels within the university.
Links for this episode:
Pathology 101 for Tissue Image Analysis
Facing Massive Labor Shortage, ASCP Committed to Expanding Medical Laboratory Workforce
The Clinical Laboratory Workforce: Understanding the Challenges to Meeting Current and Future Needs
People of Pathology Podcast:
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