[Relationships with other specialties: the view of microbiologists]

Clinical microbiology is an interpretative science and, as such, requires qualified professionals, interpretation being one of the most important activities performed by microbiologists. This article aims to analyze what it means to be a clinical microbiologist at the beginning of the 21(st) century, to present our professional objectives, and to discuss the professional relationship between microbiology and other specialties. Technological improvements and automation have substantially changed the characteristics of modern microbiology laboratories and have modified microbiologists' professional activity. Currently, the organization of the clinical microbiology laboratory in the near future is controversial, and strategies and decisions that must be urgently adopted will inevitably influence not only microbiologists' professional activity but also that of other specialists dealing with infectious diseases. Clinical microbiology specialists must develop the three classical professional functions: healthcare, teaching and research. These tasks should be carried out in a coordinated and cooperative fashion with other specialists interested in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and control of infectious diseases. To make this collaboration as productive and conflict-free as possible, the relationship must be based on complementarily, cooperation, and transparency. Only in this way will the work of microbiologists contribute to optimal patient care and provide a rationale for the future of our profession.