Clinlabscientistconsulting.com

04/27/2026

Before the celebration of Medical Laboratory Professionals Week, it was thrilling to see a major network like NBC dedicate airtime to a crucial topic: "Understanding Your Lab Results."

The segment did a fantastic job breaking down complex concepts for the public:
🔬 "Normal" isn't always optimal for an individual—it's a population-based range.
📈 Trends over time tell a more important story than a single result.
⚠️ Abnormal results + symptoms = a clear sign to call your doctor.
🩺 Awareness, not conclusions—the "No Google Rule" is vital advice.

But behind every single one of those data points on a lab report is a highly skilled Medical Laboratory Scientist .

This week, we celebrate the scientists and technicians working behind closed doors. The work is far from simple. It involves:
• Rigorous education & continuous training to maintain certifications.
• Expert technical skill to operate complex, multi-million dollar instruments.
• Meticulous decision-making and critical troubleshooting when results don't look right.
• An unwavering commitment to quality control, quality assurance and regulatory compliance.

There is no "Google Rule" for us either. We don't interpret results in a vacuum; we ensure they are precise, reliable, and communicated effectively so physicians can make informed decisions about your diagnosis, treatment, and health.

That A1C, CBC, or CMP panel you see on your patient portal? It’s the culmination of immense effort and expertise. Thank you to all my colleagues for the vital work you do every day to serve our patients and our communities. Your impact is profound.

04/12/2026

Honored to have been part of an inspiring Women’s History Month celebration as a panelist for the Women in STEM discussion at the historic St. George Theater on March 12.

This year’s event held special significance, marking the 10th anniversary of Hidden Figures — the powerful film celebrating the brilliance and perseverance of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. Their contributions at NASA not only shaped history but also paved the way for generations of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Our conversation delved into the enduring themes of the film: the challenges women still face in STEM, both visible and subtle, and the importance of resilience, community, and “quiet excellence.” It was moving to share personal stories and strategies with fellow panelists and audience members, all united by a shared commitment to lifting others as we climb.

I was also able to advocate for our profession by mentioning how we, the medical lab professionals are the “hidden figures” in healthcare as our work is silent and unseen, though the data we produce is used in 70% of medical decisions. I mentioned that such isolation is not due to discrimination but the nature of our work. We test samples from the human body to produce accurate data which requires an isolated space like the clinical lab, a place outside of public view.

Grateful to the organizers, to Commissioner Edwina Martin, ESQ St George Theater President and CEO Doreen Cugno and everyone who joined us for an evening of reflection and empowerment.

03/13/2026

Data Science in the Lab: Elevating Accuracy and Insight
Curious about how data science can transform medical laboratory science? As lab professionals, we understand the critical importance of precision. Data science empowers us to enhance quality control, detect subtle anomalies in patient results, and even predict issues before traditional QC flags them. It’s an investment in sharper skills, greater accuracy, and staying ahead in an evolving field. Yes, it’s extra work—but the payoff is smarter testing and a sharper mind. 💡

In January, we launched a Data Science in Laboratory Medicine Certificate Program designed specifically for clinical laboratorians and pathologists. Clinical Laboratory News spoke with ADLM Past President Dr. Anthony Killeen, a faculty member for the program, about the state of data science in the clinical laboratory and the need for this exciting educational offering.
https://ow.ly/SuH950YqmJZ

02/28/2026

Exciting News! I'm thrilled to share that I was invited to join the "CLIA Rewired" podcast, where we dive into discussions about the biggest regulatory shift in 30 years! As a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, it's crucial for us to stay updated on these changes. I hope you find our conversation insightful and informative! Tune in and let me know your thoughts.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EUjk3eFTWc

12/25/2025

Which microorganism is greeting you “Happy Holidays” ? Please put in the comments.

As we wrap up a year of incredible work everywhere, I just wanted to say thank you to my amazing network.

Wishing you all a holiday season filled with joy and a well-deserved break. Let's recharge and continue making a difference in 2026!

Happy Holidays! 🎄✨

11/21/2025

11/15/2025

A few weeks ago I ran a poll asking inexperienced med lab scientists whether they’d want to work in a startup lab. Almost everyone said yes — all but six voters.

If you’re considering it, here’s what it really takes:

- Curiosity: you’ll need to learn fast and keep asking questions. Startups don’t have playbooks yet — you build them.
Engage in contuing education - Fisher Scientific and Cardinal offer free webinars with CE credits. Be a mber of at least obe professional organization (AMT, ASCLS etc). Be interestedin broadening your knowledge in medical laboratory science.

- Humility: prioritize competence over ego. Ask clarifying questions, accept feedback, and focus on growing expertise (not proving you’re right).

- Emotional intelligence: you’ll work with a mix of people — highly technical colleagues, politically savvy ones, and everything in between. Observe dynamics, respond instead of react, and learn to manage conflicts constructively.

- Resilience and self-forgiveness: mistakes will happen as part of learning. Own them, fix them, and move on.

- Flexibility and stamina: small teams mean extra shifts and trade-offs; you get to choose how long to make those sacrifices.

- Broad technical skills: beyond running assays, expect tasks like validation calculations (Excel), LIS accuracy checks, instrument troubleshooting, and designing workflows that meet client expectations. You’ll wear many hats.

Yes, it’s overwhelming — but it’s also one of the fastest ways to develop technical depth, operational judgment, and leadership skills.

If you’ve worked in a startup lab, what trait helped you most?

Please leave your responses in the comments box .

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11/15/2025

A few weeks ago I ran a poll asking inexperienced med lab scientists whether they’d want to work in a startup lab. Almost everyone said yes — all but three voters.

If you’re considering it, here’s what it really takes:

One’s mindset is critical to surviving, thriving and maximizing one’s experience in a startup lab. Technical information can be looked up, researched, or taught by a lab mentor but developing your mindset is your responsibility.

- Curiosity: you’ll need to learn fast and keep asking questions. Startups don’t have playbooks yet — you build them.

- Humility: prioritize competence over ego. Ask clarifying questions, accept feedback, and focus on growing expertise (not proving you’re right).

- Emotional intelligence: you’ll work with a mix of people — highly technical colleagues, politically savvy ones, and everything in between. Observe dynamics, respond instead of react, and learn to manage conflicts constructively.

- Resilience and self-forgiveness: mistakes will happen as part of learning. Own them, fix them, and move on.

- Flexibility and stamina: small teams mean extra shifts and trade-offs; you get to choose how long to make those sacrifices.

- Broad technical skills: beyond running assays, expect tasks like validation calculations (Excel), LIS accuracy checks, instrument troubleshooting, and designing workflows that meet client expectations. You’ll wear many hats.

Yes, it’s overwhelming at times — but it’s also one of the fastest ways to develop technical depth, operational judgment, and leadership skills.

If you’ve worked in a startup lab, what trait helped you most? Please leave your response on the comments.

MedLab
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