Progressing the certification of the medical science workforce

Abstract

The Australian Commonwealth Government has funded a project to investigate options for a sustainable certification scheme for medical laboratory scientists (MLSs). This has been a sought-after goal for the profession in Australia for many years. Certification is not registration as certification may not be mandatory and does not have the legal teeth of the more formal process. Models of overseas registration schemes are discussed and the key features exposed. The definition of an MLS is needed as certification will provide protection of the title. What are the basic requirements for certification and recertification, what could the process be, the likely cost and period of validity? An essential component of the certification process would be some form of continuing professional development, but it is suggested that there should be a broader requirement for competence assessment for recertification. How this process could occur and be linked to the competency-based standards endorsed by the Pathology Associations Council is canvassed. The connection between certification and course accreditation should also be considered if courses are to provide work-ready MLSs in sufficient numbers to ensure the workforce can provide the necessary skills for the protection of the public.