We support excellence in patient care and safety by providing accurate and timely laboratory information and services to improve the health of the individuals and communities we serve. As a leading academic medical center laboratory, we advance knowledge and the development of medical professionals through the Vanderbilt University Medical Center pillar goals of people, service, quality, growth and finance, and innovation. Our program’s mission is to cultivate a generation of highly skilled and compassionate medical laboratory scientists through comprehensive education and practical training within a hospital-based setting. We are committed to fostering a learning environment that promotes excellence, integrity, and innovation in laboratory medicine. Our program aims to equip students with the knowledge, critical thinking abilities, and technical proficiency necessary to excel in the dynamic field of medical laboratory science. By instilling a dedication to patient care, ethical practice, and continuous professional development, we aspire to empower graduates to positively impact healthcare outcomes and contribute to the advancement of medical science. The Medical Laboratory Science Program strives to maintain a quality education program to accomplish the following outcomes.
To provide proficient employees with advanced knowledge and skills for diagnostic laboratories at VUMC and other healthcare organizations.
Students perform high throughput and high complexity testing on a diverse patient population after training in VUMC’s medical laboratories. Students become familiar with VUMC policies and procedures, preparing them to begin training as employees immediately after graduation. This integration of students in the VUMC laboratory environment decreases the expenses VUMC pays in recruitment and employee selection. Students who choose to work at other health care organizations after graduation apply the knowledge and experiences from the program to work in a fast-paced environment of varying complexities.
To provide a stimulating learning environment for students and laboratory staff.
Being involved in laboratory education provides an atmosphere in which laboratory professionals are pushed to maintain knowledge of current theory and testing procedures. Employees are challenged to investigate new and emerging trends in the field, positively affecting patient care. Interacting with students also allows employees to improve their skills in communication and instruction.
To maintain a source of professionals who constantly and consistently bring new knowledge into the laboratory field to drive change in health care.
Stagnation, job dissatisfaction, and burnout are reduced in the laboratory by providing a constant source of new professionals to alleviate staffing issues. These new professionals are motivated to learn and support patient care and laboratory testing. Laboratory professionals engage and share knowledge with students, ensuring that the students will have current, practical knowledge upon entering the workforce. Students also participate in seminar activities that prepare theme to be leaders in their selected focus after graduation. Graduates of the program are encouraged to participate in professional organizations and other activities to influence the direction and remain on the forefront of their chosen career.
OUR VALUES
Patient-focused service: We demonstrate care and compassion for our patients.
Professionalism: We act with respect, commitment, and integrity, and value each of our colleagues.
Safety: We promote a culture of patient and employee safety.
Quality: We are committed to accuracy, reliability, and continuous process improvement.
Growth and advancement: We advance healthcare through education, discovery, and innovation.
PROGRAM GOALS AND COMPETENCIES
The Medical Laboratory Science Program at Vanderbilt University Medical Center bases its educational program on principles essential to the preparation of students to achieve the ideals of the profession. The VUMC Medical Laboratory Science program strives to instill the following goals in each student through teaching and experiential learning:
1. Proficiency in Laboratory Techniques and Procedures
- Perform laboratory tests of moderate and high complexity accurately and efficiently.
- Demonstrate proficiency in specimen collection, processing, analysis, and interpretation of results.
- Utilize laboratory instrumentation and technology effectively to conduct tests and troubleshoot equipment issues.
2. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
- Apply critical thinking skills to analyze laboratory data, identify patterns, and draw appropriate conclusions.
- Troubleshoot technical issues encountered during laboratory procedures and propose solutions.
- Evaluate the reliability and validity of laboratory results, recognizing potential sources of error and taking corrective actions.
3. Knowledge of Laboratory Sciences
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles, theories, and concepts underlying laboratory sciences, including biochemistry, microbiology, hematology, immunology, and clinical chemistry.
- Apply knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology to laboratory practice and interpretation of laboratory results.
- Stay updated with advancements in laboratory medicine, research methodologies, and emerging technologies relevant to the field.
4. Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Communicate effectively with healthcare professionals, patients, and laboratory staff, demonstrating professionalism, empathy, and cultural sensitivity.
- Document laboratory procedures, findings, and results accurately and clearly in written reports and electronic medical records.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to ensure accurate diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of patient conditions.
5. Professionalism and Ethical Conduct
- Adhere to professional standards, codes of ethics, and regulatory requirements governing laboratory practice.
- Maintain confidentiality of patient information and protect the privacy and rights of individuals in accordance with HIPAA regulations and institutional policies.
- Demonstrate integrity, honesty, and ethical behavior in all aspects of laboratory practice, including patient care and interactions with colleagues and patients.
6. Quality Assurance and Laboratory Management
- Implement quality control measures and quality assurance protocols to ensure accuracy, precision, and reliability of laboratory results.
- Participate in the development, implementation, and evaluation of laboratory policies, procedures, and protocols.
- Manage laboratory resources efficiently, including inventory control, equipment maintenance, and compliance with safety regulations.
7. Lifelong Learning and Professional Development
- Engage in continuous professional development activities, such as attending conferences, workshops, and seminars, and pursuing advanced certifications or degrees to navigate changing trends in the profession.
- Seek opportunities to contribute to the advancement of laboratory medicine and scientific knowledge and to advance within the career.
- Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning, self-reflection, and personal growth as a healthcare professional.