Education and the physician's office laboratory.

Area of Science:

• Clinical diagnostics
• Medical laboratory science
• Healthcare education

Background:

• Physicians' office laboratory (POL) testing volume and technology are increasing.
• Educational challenges in POL settings have been overlooked.
• High-quality POL testing requires addressing these educational gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the need for improved education in physicians' office laboratory testing.
• To outline essential training components for POL personnel.
• To emphasize collaborative development of new educational programs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on POL testing trends and educational needs.
• Analysis of current training gaps for physicians, office staff, and technicians.
• Conceptual framework for cooperative educational program development.

Main Results:

• Primary care physicians require training to serve as laboratory directors.
• Office staff need accessible "in-office" continuing education.
• Formal training for technicians and technologists must include POL-specific procedures.

Conclusions:

• Cooperative efforts between physician educators, pathologists, allied health faculty, and industry are vital.
• Developing targeted educational programs is essential for the growth and quality of POL testing.
• Addressing educational needs will ensure the continued advancement of diagnostic capabilities in primary care settings.