Laboratory medicine education in medical schools: guidelines for courses on the effective use of clinical laboratory tests

Abstract

There is a growing concern that the majority of medical schools do not require instructions in laboratory medicine and in the correct use of laboratory tests. Physicians, who use the clinical laboratory services, need to be familiar with their role in ensuring quality test results through appropriate test selection, interpretation and clinical action. This book gives guidelines for establishing a course to develop the knowledge and skills required for the appropriate use of laboratory tests and proper use of laboratory facilities. The guidelines are aimed at those interested in, and responsible for, undergraduate education in medical schools, especially in the developing countries, and who have established or intend to establish a programme at their medical schools to teach final year medical students effective use of clinical laboratory tests