Clinical biochemistry in Singapore--past and present

This paper traces the historical development of the practice of clinical biochemistry in Singapore and presents the current status of the special branch of laboratory medicine in the country. The rapid expansion in the field which has taken place over the last three decades, has no parallel in any other medical specialty. This has presented unique problems. The approaches taken to solve these problems are described and the following areas are highlighted: scope of biochemical investigations, research and development, methodology and instrumentation, laboratory workload, automation and computerisation, costing of laboratory service, reference values, quality control, training, education, international relations and professional activities.