The European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine syllabus for postgraduate education and training for Specialists in Laboratory Medicine: version 5 – 2018

Abstract

Although laboratory medicine practise varies across the European Union’s (EU) member states, the extent of overlap in scope is such that a common syllabus describing the education and training associated with high-quality, specialist practise can be identified. In turn, such a syllabus can help define the common set of skills, knowledge and competence in a Common Training Framework (CTF) for non-medical Specialists in Laboratory Medicine under EU Directive 2013/55/EU (The recognition of Professional Qualifications). In meeting the requirements of the directive’s CTF patient safety is particularly enhanced when specialists seek to capitalise on opportunities for free professional migration across EU borders. In updating the fourth syllabus, the fifth expands on individual discipline requirements, new analytical techniques and use of statistics. An outline structure for a training programme is proposed together with expected responsibilities of trainees and trainers; reference is provided to a trainee’s log book. In updating the syllabus, it continues to support national programmes and the aims of EU Directive 2013/55/EU in providing safeguards to professional mobility across European borders at a time when the demand for highly qualified professionals is increasing in the face of a disparity in their distribution across Europe. In support of achieving a CTF, the syllabus represents EFLM’s position statement for the education and training that underpins the framework.

Project management in laboratory medicine

“…Several lines of evidence now attest that role and responsibilities of laboratory managers have considerably evolved during the past decades (24). These paradigm shifts have been mostly driven by some clinical, technical, economic and social factors, mainly encompassing deepened understanding of the pathophysiology of human diseases, technological innovations, renewed focus on patient safety, cost-containment strategies and patient empowerment.…”

Patient Safety in Laboratory Medicine

“…While the fourth version of the syllabus was built with the specialist's generic skills, knowledge, and competencies in mind, the fifth version details individual discipline requirements (such as those in clinical chemistry, immunology, hematology, blood transfusion, microbiology/ virology, genetics, and in vitro fertilization) and includes new analytical techniques and statistics. Laboratory organization, quality, safety, and clinical governance have also been included as fundamental aspects of training, thus enabling the specialist in Laboratory Medicine to operate as a clinical leader who can support and transform healthcare services [44]. Given the recent changes in the nature of laboratory service and its role in the healthcare process, the new generation of laboratory professionals and leaders are then called upon to incorporate specific technical skills into a broader vision of healthcare and of patients' needs.…”

The Academy of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine and the European Register of Specialists in Laboratory Medicine: guide to the Academy and the Register, version 4 – 2020

“…Includes expectations for education and training to follow the EFLM syllabus which also identifies the competences required to assure patients that they receive safe and high quality care[4].-Requires specialists to be included in a professional register (if available) in their home country and to maintain their competence and knowledge base through participation in CPD activities. -The Register provides a platform for recognition of specialist practice across Europe, particularly in the absence of a government register of specialists and/or an identified regulated profession.…”

“…Flexibility as to the remaining 35%, including general chemistry, haematology, microbiology, genetics and In Vitro Fertilisation in a proportion consistent with the requirements in the country of destination, consisting of work experience, accredited courses, relevant exams of the national training programs, traineeships. -Key to the distinction between the specialist and the non-specialist is the ability to meet the competencies described in the EFLM syllabus[4] and version 3 of the guide to the Register[3]. Evidence is sought during applications.…”