2019 is an optimal year to sign up for one of AACC’s 12 online certificate programs, which cover all bases in laboratory management, testing, and technology. These programs, developed by dedicated experts in each discipline, offer valuable continuing education credits that participants can earn at times and places convenient to them.
Topics in the laboratory management category run the gamut from patient safety essentials to quality to laboratory leadership. Newly updated in 2018, the Regulatory Affairs for Laboratory Compliance program gives a comprehensive overview of the many layers of clinical laboratory oversight. Worth 8.5 ACCENT credits, the course covers federal and state regulations; how CLIA ’88, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and health privacy laws affect laboratory operations; the regulation of diagnostic tests; lab reimbursement; and how to comply with Medicare fraud and abuse provisions.
Another recently updated program in the laboratory testing category, Fundamentals of Molecular Pathology, offers nine areas of study, with a chance to earn 11 ACCENT credits. Open to laboratory professionals of all levels, this certificate program covers the full spectrum of molecular pathology diagnostic applications, with courses on molecular biology basics, molecular genetics, and laboratory techniques, and specific areas of study, such as validating molecular assays in oncology.
By taking this certificate program, Nemesio Cedeño Marquez was able to update his knowledge in the field, “especially in the most advanced techniques in molecular biology and its applications in the clinical laboratory.” Marquez, who holds a doctorate in immunology and an MSc in biology from the Venezuelan Institute for Scientific Research, said the program has served as a useful guideline while studying for his certification in molecular pathology.
AACC also offers certificate programs in laboratory technology. Clinical laboratorians can learn about the basics in flow cytometry or the architecture of laboratory information systems, or get a tutorial on the latest mass spectrometry (MS) technologies such as tandem or liquid chromatography MS.
AACC members who sign up for an online certificate program benefit from reduced prices. AACC also has special group offers for labs that enroll multiple staff members. Upon successful completion of a program, graduates can claim ACCENT continuing education credits and are awarded certificates of completion online. Graduates are also recognized on the following register.