The clinical laboratory practitioner.
OBJECTIVE
This study was designed to investigate potential areas of practice for the clinical laboratory scientist (CLS) and to propose a graduate curriculum to prepare the practitioner for an advanced level of practice.


METHODS
Meta-analysis of PharmD, physician assistant, physical therapy, and nurse practitioner curricula focusing on academic and clinical advanced practice was used to develop an educational model and curriculum for a professional doctorate in clinical laboratory science (CLS).


METHODS
(1) New educational model for CLS advanced practice; (2) A proposed curriculum for a Doctorate of Clinical Laboratory Science degree.


RESULTS
A new curriculum model was adapted from established healthcare educational models.


CONCLUSIONS
Although there is a need for a baccalaureate degree in CLS there is also a role for expanded education and responsibilities for CLS practitioners. The CLS Advanced Practitioner design focuses on moving students from the baccalaureate level to the doctoral level and prepares the individual to become an integral part of the healthcare team.
Fowler
David
D
University of Mississippi Medical Center, Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Jackson MS 39216, USA. dfowler@shrp.umsmed.edu
Martin
Tina
T
Spence
Libby
L
D003479:Curriculum; D004500:Education, Graduate; D006801:Humans; D017056:Medical Laboratory Personnel / Q000193:education*