This document describes a strategic vision for AACC and is intended to serve as a framework for decision-making by members and staff. It is built on a plan originally adopted in 1993, revised by the Board of Directors in 1997, 2005 and 2008 to reflect the changes in the environment.
Vision
To provide leadership in advancing the practice and profession of clinical laboratory science and its application to health care.
Strategic Initiatives
In furtherance of the vision five strategic initiatives were defined.
- Advance Science and Technology – AACC will advance laboratory science and technology by publishing peer-reviewed science and by disseminating information about technology and clinical practice through conferences, publications, and other methods. AACC will promote the transition of new technologies into clinical laboratory practice.
- Advance the Profession – AACC will promote recognition of laboratory professionals by enhancing the understanding of the value of laboratory testing and by promoting the visibility of those responsible for the development, investigation and delivery of clinical laboratory medicine services. AACC will promote the value of the laboratorian in the practice of laboratory medicine and support the development of young scientists. AACC will also develop programs to support recruitment and retention of qualified individuals for the field.
- Advance Clinical Science – AACC will promote the use of evidence-based approaches to laboratory medicine, the development of diagnostic strategies, and advocate the role of laboratorian as a clinical consultant and key member of the health care team. AACC will promote the transition of clinical research into clinical laboratory practice.
- Advance Laboratory Practice – AACC will advance laboratory practice by promoting sound and well-grounded approaches to decision-making, by communicating information on the evolving needs of the laboratory environment, and by helping members acquire the skills and knowledge required to meet these needs.
- Advance the Global Role – AACC will continue to develop its role as a respected clinical laboratory scientific organization.
Desired End States
Through the strategic initiatives AACC will reach the desired end states:
- A membership that is vibrant, recognized, successful, knowledgeable and that contributes to their organizations and the profession.
- A respected clinical laboratory association that meets the needs of its members.
- An informed patient population that receives high-quality laboratory services.
To successfully support the strategic initiatives and reach the desired end states, AACC must continue to:
- Provide information on emerging scientific, clinical, and technical areas.
- Produce quality publications that enhance communication and improve the scientific record.
- Develop programs that increase the visibility of the profession and the understanding of clinical laboratory testing.
- Develop diverse and high-quality educational programs that advance clinical laboratory science and develop members’ skills.
- Maintain collaborative relationships with health care providers, clinical organizations, suppliers, industry, government, and other organizations.
- Establish a focus on membership recruitment and retention.
- Develop programs that support the global laboratory community.
Shared Values
AACC will achieve the strategic objectives while practicing the following shared values:
- Member-Centered
- Innovation
- Quality
- Collaboration
- Leadership
- Outcome-oriented
Priority Strategic Activities
AACC’s priority strategic activities are:
- Champion initiatives that improve the quality of laboratory medicine and patient care and enhance patient safety.
- Promote the value of the profession.
- Attract more people to the profession and to AACC.
- Develop educational programs that reflect the needs of the membership.
- Develop collaborative meetings and activities with other professional groups.
- Promote the introduction and appropriate utilization of new laboratory technologies.
- Provide leadership in the global community of laboratory professionals.
- Monitor and provide advice on regulatory and legislative issues.
- Develop appropriate practice guidelines in collaboration with clinical organizations.