Tracing our roots: years of turmoil (1962-1977)

To describe the activities of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists and the sequence of events leading to the establishment of the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science and Medical Laboratory Personnel.

A survey of literature on the history of clinical laboratory science was conducted. References consulted various books and professional journals.

By virtue of its close association with ASCP, ASMT became drawn into a series of legal actions between 1962 and 1977. Although ASMT was eventually dropped from all law-suits, the association's leadership recognized the need for greater autonomy and independence from ASCP. Clinical laboratory science achieved several victories during this period with respect to certification and mandatory re-registration by the BOR. Responsibility for accreditation of educational programs was shifted from the BOS to NAACLS and the establishment of the National Certification Agency for Medical Laboratory Personnel signified ASMT's commitment to certification by the profession for the profession.