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TitreDateDurée
AI and Pathology: A short history and what comes next30 May 202501:01:18

In this special episode of Inside the Lab, producer and host David Ritter does a dive into the history of efforts to integrate AI into the practice of healthcare. He’s joined by MD/PhD candidate Rahim Hirani, who discusses the history of efforts to automate diagnostic decision making in healthcare all the way back to the 1950s, and how these efforts were qualitatively different from current tools like large language models. Then, he’s joined by Dr. Melody Nelson from the  who discusses contemporary issues with applying modern AI tools in the context of the practice of pathology.

Emerging Respiratory Viruses16 Apr 202501:01:06

Inside the Lab is joined by experts Drs. Hannah Wang from the Cleveland Clinic and Rodney Rohde from Texas State University to discuss emerging respiratory viruses. Their discussion begins with lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and an overview of what technologies have emerged since. They go on to discuss the virology and surveillance strategies for H5N1 and RSV, as well as vaccine hesitancy and its impact in the treatment of measles. 

Special Episode: Emerging Biomarkers for the Assessment of Alzheimer's Disease30 Nov 202300:37:54

Recent developments in disease modifying therapies have been proven to slow the progression of cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease. 

And yet, we can only confirm a diagnosis of AD after a patient’s death. 

But what if we could use biomarkers to identify preclinical stage Alzheimer’s and step in long before a patient exhibits dementia? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, your host, Ms. Kelly Swails, MT(ASCP) introduces us to Dr. Shih-Hsiu Jerry Wang, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Pathology and Assistant Professor of Neurology at the Duke University School of Medicine, and shares his talk on emerging biomarkers for the assessment of Alzheimer’s disease from the ASCP 2023 Annual Meeting

Dr. Wang explains how we measure AD right now and why there’s discordance between the clinical presentation and pathology of Alzheimer’s. 

Dr. Wang walks us through the core biomarkers for identifying AD per the AT(N) framework, describing the pros and cons of current detection methodologies and offering recommendations around when to use blood biomarkers versus PET imaging or CSF. 

Listen in for insight into the ongoing search for better AD biomarkers and learn what we are doing to diagnose Alzheimer’s in its early stages and intervene accordingly. 

Topics Covered  

· The clinical definition of Alzheimer’s disease and how it impacts cognitive function
· How we measure Alzheimer’s in pathology by amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles
· Why there’s discordance between the clinical presentation and pathology of AD
· The core biomarkers for identifying Alzheimer’s disease per the AT(N) framework
· Identifying the stages of AD based on amyloid plaque, pathologic tau and neurodegeneration
· Examples of PET imaging for the different stages of AD and how imaging biomarkers predict cognitive decline
· The limitations of fluid biomarkers vs. imaging biomarkers to detect Alzheimer's disease
· Some of the emerging ultrasensitive biomarker detection methods in development for AD
· Using cerebral spinal fluids (CSF) vs. plasma biomarkers to identify Alzheimer's disease
· A comparison of the mass spectrometry vs. SIMOA methods of analyzing p-tau biomarkers
· Why Dr. Wang suggests blood biomarkers for AD screening (with confirmation by PET or CSF)
· Why SNAP-25, NfL and GFAP are not considered core biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease
· The ongoing search for better biomarkers and ultrasensitive detection methods for AD 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Wang
Dr. Wang at Duke University 

Connect with Ms. Swails
Ms. Swails on Twitter

Resources
Dr. Wang’s Slides from the ASCP Annual Meeting 2023
‘NIA-AA Research Framework: Toward a Biological Definition of Alzheimer’s Disease’ in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

Special Episode:How Advances in Treatment for NSCLC and Melanoma Impact the Laboratory 30 Nov 202300:47:50

The availability of targeted therapies has changed the landscape of cancer treatment in the last few years.  And two types of cancer particularly affected by these advances are melanoma and non-small cell lung carcinoma or NSCLC. What role does the laboratory play in the diagnosis and treatment of these cancers? How can pathologists and lab professionals work with oncologists to optimize biomarker testing and improve patient outcomes?  

On this episode of Inside the Lab, your hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails, MT(ASCP), and Dr. Ali Brown, MD, FASCP, are joined by Dr. Sanjay Mukhopadhyay, MD, Director of the Lung Pathology Service at the Cleveland Clinic, Ms. Lynnette Pineault, MBA, SCT(ASCP), Operations Manager for Laboratory and Genetic Services for Health Partners, and Mr. Jim Ondick, ASCP Patient Champion and IT Associate at The University of Kansas Health System, to discuss advancements in biomarker testing to improve NSCLC and melanoma cancer care.  

Listen in for insight on ensuring equitable patient access to biomarker testing and learn how to register for ASCP’s Immuno-Oncology Microlearning Courses for pathologists and laboratory professionals.  

Topics Covered   

  • How targeted therapies and immunotherapies have improved treatment for melanoma and lung cancer in the past few years 
  • Mr. Ondick’s success story of being treated with immunotherapy for metastatic melanoma and why he had little interaction with laboratory professionals during his diagnosis and treatment
  • How pathologists can work with oncologists and surgeons to improve care for patients with cancer 
  • The obstacles to providing laboratory services or support for biomarker testing 
  • Dr. Mukhopadhyay and Ms. Pineault’s advice on designing workflows to optimize biomarker testing and ensuring equitable access for patients 
  • Mr. Ondick’s take on what cancer patients should know about the laboratory team  

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook 
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter   

Connect with Dr. Mukhopadhyay 
Dr. Mukhopadhyay at Cleveland Clinic
Dr. Mukhopadhyay on LinkedIn  

Connect with Ms. Pineault
Ms. Pineault on ResearchGate
Ms. Pineault on LinkedIn  

Connect with Mr. Ondick
Mr. Ondick on LinkedIn
Mr. Ondick’s Story on ASCP Patient Champions  

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Brown
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Brown on Twitter  

Resources
ASCP Patient Champions
ASCP Immuno-Oncology Microlearning Courses
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store   

Sponsor
Bristol Myers Squibb 

S4Ep2: The FDA’s Proposed Rule on Laboratory Developed Tests 20 Oct 202300:42:18

Tests that are designed in-house to fulfill a clinical need (but aren’t FDA approved) qualify as laboratory developed tests. And these LDTs are currently regulated by CLIA. But the FDA is proposing a new rule that would give them oversight of the design and development of laboratory developed tests. So, what does that mean for us? How would this new legislation impact everyday practice inside the lab? 

On this episode of the podcast, your hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails, MLS(ASCP), and Dr. Ali Brown, MD, FASCP, are joined by Dr. Gregory Sossaman, MD, Clinical Pathologist and Service Line Lead for Pathology and Lab Medicine at Ochsner Health, Dr. Jonathan Genzen, MD, Clinical Pathology Professor at the University of Utah and Chief Medical Officer and Senior Director of Government Affairs at ARUP Laboratories, and Mr. Matthew Schulze, Senior Director for the Center for Public Policy at ASCP, to discuss the implications of the proposed FDA regulations for LDTs. 

Our panelists share their anxiety around the labor and costs involved in complying with the new rule and describe how lab professionals might be forced into situations where we deny care due to regulations. Listen in to understand why public opinion favors the proposed rule and learn how to share your concerns with the FDA during the public comment period from October 3rd to December 4th, 2023. 

Topics Covered  

· How tests that are not FDA approved but designed in-house to fulfill a clinical need fall into the category of laboratory developed tests
· Examples of common LDTs used in academic medical centers + large community health systems
· The current regulations re: performance standards for LDTs under CLIA
· Dr. Sossaman, Dr. Genzen & Mr. Schulze’s concerns around the labor and costs involved in complying with the proposed FDA rule
· The lack of clarity re: what modifications to FDA approved tests would be allowed under the proposed regulations
· How direct-to-consumer testing, the pandemic and technological advances influenced the proposed FDA rule and why the general public is in favor of it
· How the proposed FDA regulations would affect our ability to respond in future pandemics

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Sossaman
Dr. Sossaman on LinkedIn 

Connect with Dr. Genzen
Dr. Genzen on LinkedIn 

Connect with Mr. Schulze
Mr. Schulze on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Brown
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Brown on Twitter 

Resources
ASCP Membership 2024
Proposed FDA Regulation of Laboratory Developed Tests
Public Comment on the FDA’s Proposed Rule
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S4Ep1: Patient-Centered Care from a Laboratory Perspective12 Sep 202300:39:09

Working on the bench can feel like being in a black box. And as important as it is to advocate for patients, pathologists and laboratory professionals rarely have direct access to them. 

So, what can we do to encourage patient-centered care in the medical laboratory? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, your hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails, MLS(ASCP), and Dr. Lotte Mulder, PhD, are joined by three members of the laboratory staff at University Hospital in San Antonio, Ms. Carrie Bartosh, MLS(ASCP), SV, Laboratory Supervisor in the Microbiology Department, Ms. Claudia Courtright, MLS(ASCP), Technical Supervisor in Microbiology Services, and Mr. Scott Bowman, MLS(ASCP), Bench Technologist, to discuss patient advocacy in the laboratory. 

Our panelists describe what laboratories can do to promote a culture of patient-centered care, sharing examples of situations when they advocated for patients from the bench and what they wish people knew about the value of the work done in the medical laboratory.  

Listen in for Ms. Bartosh, Ms. Courtright, and Mr. Bowman’s advice for laboratory professionals on avoiding burnout and learn how your laboratory can establish processes that support patient-centered care.  

Topics Covered 
· How frontline laboratory professionals can advocate for patients from the bench
· Instances of advocating for patients and how working in a culture of safety empowered those situations
· What the University Health laboratory does to continuously evaluate and improve its patient-centered care practices
· What laboratories can do to promote a culture of patient-centered care
· Why a punitive culture in the laboratory is not conducive to patient-centered care
· Examples of processes that support patient-centered care
· Advice to laboratory professionals on how to avoid burnout
· How Ms. Bartosh, Ms. Courtright, and Mr. Bowmanstay motivated to focus on advocacy
· Why laboratory professionals rarely have an opportunity to involve patients in the decision-making process around laboratory testing and results interpretation (and how impactful it is when they do)
· What our panelists wish patients knew about the value of the work we do in the medical laboratory 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter

Connect with Ms. Bartosh, Ms. Courtright & Mr. Bowman
University Health Laboratory Services
Ms. Bartosh on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Brown
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Mulder on Twitter

Resources
CAP Inspection Checklists
ASCP Patient Champions Program
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S3Ep15: Strategies for Promoting DEI in the Lab22 Aug 202300:45:00

We know that diverse teams perform better. In laboratory medicine, diversity, equity, and inclusion in leadership not only inspires young professionals, it also promotes retention in a profession that struggles with staffing shortages. 

So, what’s stopping us from increasing representation and equity in laboratory leadership?  

What can we do to recruit a more diverse pool of job applicants and then support them in growing into lab leadership and management roles? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, your hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails, MLS(ASCP), and Dr. Lotte Mulder, PhD, are joined by Ms. Lona Gordon Small, MLS(ASCP), MBA, Quality Specialist at the Johns Hopkins Hospital Core Lab and coach and Founder of LabOPEX Training and Consulting, Dr. Marissa J. White, MD, FASCP, Surgical Pathologist and Deputy Director for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Johns Hopkins, and Mr. Mohamed Abdelmonem, MBA-HCM, MSc, MLS(ASCP)SBB, Blood Bank Specialist and Transfusion and Reference Lab Supervisor at STEM Healthcare, to discuss diversity, equity and inclusion strategies for the medical lab. 

Our panelists explain the common barriers to expanding representation among laboratory leadership and explore effective strategies for mentoring underrepresented groups in management roles. 

Listen in for Ms. Small, Dr. White, and Mr. Abdelmonem’s insight on establishing equity around pay and promotion and learn what educational institutions and professional organizations can do to promote representation at all levels of the laboratory workforce! 

Topics Covered 
· The crucial need to increase representation in laboratory leadership and management positions
· Common barriers to expanding representation and equity in laboratory leadership
· What educational institutions and professional organizations can do to promote representation and equity in the laboratory workforce
· The benefits of equity around pay and promotion in the medical lab
· Effective strategies for mentoring and supporting underrepresented groups in laboratory leadership roles
· Strategies to identify and recruit a more diverse pool of job applicants for roles in the medical laboratory  

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Ms. Small
Ms. Small on LinkedIn

Connect with Dr. White
Dr. White at Johns Hopkins 

Connect with Mr. Abdelmonem
Mr. Abdelmonem on LinkedIn

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Mulder
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Mulder on Twitter 

Resources
eLABorate Topics Podcast
Mass General Brigham’s Mentoring Across Differences
Positive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine
ASCP Mentorship Program
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S3Ep14: Mentorship in the Medical Laboratory11 Jul 202300:45:54

Would you benefit from having a mentor to help you grow as a pathologist or laboratory professional? How might you benefit from becoming a mentor yourself? 

We get further, faster, with support, and having the right mentor accelerates your personal and professional development. 

But how do you find a good mentor? And what can you do to make the mentor-mentee relationship successful?  

On this episode of Inside the Lab, your hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails, MT(ASCP), and Dr. Lotte Mulder, PhD, are joined by Dr. Nathan Johnson, PhD, FACHE, MASCP, DLM(ASCP), Chair of Laboratory Sciences at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas,Ms. Tywauna Wilson, MBA, MLS(ASCP)CM, System Technical Director of Chemistry for CompuNet Clinical Laboratories and President of Trendy Elite Coaching, and Dr. Russell Broaddus, MD, PhD, Chair of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine at Chapel Hill, to discuss mentorship in the laboratory. 

Our panelists explore the characteristics of a good mentor, explaining why mentorship is important at ALL levels of your career and where to look for mentorship as a pathologist or laboratory professional. 

Listen in for examples of how Dr. Johnson, Ms. Wilson, and Dr. Broaddus have benefitted from serving as mentors and learn how to maximize the benefits of a mentor-mentee relationship in the medical lab. 

Topics Covered
· What inspired Dr. Johnson, Ms. Wilson, and  Dr. Broaddus to become mentors
· Why our panelists look to mentor in the areas of leadership and career development
· How experienced laboratory professionals can learn from their younger colleagues
· The characteristics of a good mentor
· What makes the mentor-mentee relationship work
· What questions you should ask yourself before saying YES to mentoring someone
· Insight on where to look for a mentor
· Common  mistakes people make in looking for a mentor
· Why mentorship is important at ALL levels of your laboratory career
· How our panelists have benefited from serving as mentors
· What you can do to maximize your mentor-mentee relationships in the lab

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Johnson
Dr. Johnson at the University of Arkansas
Dr. Johnson on LinkedIn

Connect with Ms. Wilson
Trendy Elite Coaching
Ms. Wilson on Twitter
Ms. Wilson on LinkedIn

Connect with Dr. Broaddus
Dr. Broaddus at UNC School of Medicine
Dr. Broaddus on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Mulder
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Mulder on Twitter 

Resources
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S3Ep13: A Storied Career in Gynecologic Pathology—featuring Dr. Elvio Silva20 Jun 202300:47:38

What inspires a doctor to pursue pathology?  

Dr. Elvio Silva, MD, was drawn to pathology because it’s the only specialty in medicine where you can SEE the disease. And his patient-centered approach to studying tumors has led to breakthrough research.  

On this episode of Inside the Lab, Dr. Silva, Professor in the Department of Pathology at MD Anderson Cancer Center, joins our hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails, MLS(ASCP), and Dr. Ali Brown, MD, FASCP, to discuss his storied career as a gynecologic pathologist. 

Dr. Silva explains the two kinds of pathology research, describing what inspired his revolutionary work in grading endocervical adenocarcinomas and why it’s crucial for medical journals to make room for new ideas. 

Listen in for insight on deciding between a career in academics versus private practice and find out what Dr. Silva learned from his most challenging cases in the diverse field of gynecologic pathology. 

Topics Covered 
· Dr. Silva’s accidental journey to becoming a gynecologic pathologist
· How pathology is the only specialty where you can SEE the disease and why Dr. Silva views that as the best part of pathology
· Dr. Silva’s response to people who say pathologists aren’t real doctors
· How Dr. Silva thinks about deciding between academics vs. private practice
· The two kinds of pathology research and what draws people  to research that involves understanding a disease
· What Dr. Silva says to people who are intimidated by the diversity in gynecologic pathology
· Why it’s challenging for pathologists to recognize when we’re wrong
· The publications Dr. Silva is most proud of (and why those papers were initially rejected)
· Examples of challenging cases and how they illustrate pitfalls pathologists should avoid
· Why it’s crucial for societies and journals to make room for people with new and unusual ideas
· Concerns around the training of pathology residents

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Silva
Dr. Silva on Twitter
Dr. Silva on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Brown
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Brown on Twitter

Resources
Dr. Silva on ResearchGate
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S3Ep12: Transitioning to Leadership Outside the Laboratory30 May 202300:43:05

Are you dreaming of moving up the ladder and transitioning to a management position in the laboratory? Or maybe even a leadership role outside the lab? 

What can you do to learn the leadership skills you need to take that next step in your career? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, your hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails, MLS(ASCP), and Dr. Lotte Mulder, PhD, are joined by Dr. Gary Procop, MD, MS, CEO of the American Board of Pathology, Ms. Anne Walsh-Feeks, MS, PA(ASCP), FACHE, Assistant Dean and COO for Ambulatory Operations at Stony Brook Medicine in Stony Brooke, New York, and Ms. Carol Gomes, MS, FACHE, CPHQ, MASCP, MT(ASCP)HTL, DLM, CEO and COO at Stony Brook University Hospital, to discuss the transition to leadership outside the laboratory. 

Our panelists discuss their journeys to leadership roles, sharing the resources they found helpful in making the transition and offering advice for laboratory professionals considering management positions in or outside the lab. Listen in for our panelists' insight on building leadership experience through volunteering and learn to leverage the skills you’re honing in the lab to advance your career! 

Topics Covered 
· Career advice for laboratory professionals who wish to move into a management position
· Why it is important to maintain your clinical role during the transition to management
· Leadership skills learned from volunteering with professional associations
· How to take advantage of tuition reimbursement programs to further your education
· Skills learned working in the lab that can contribute career progression
· The pivotal events responsible for our panelists' transition to leadership outside the lab
· Advice for clinicians who want to make the leap to leadership roles outside the lab
· Certifications and degrees our panelists found helpful in making the transition to leadership
· What our panelists would do differently in their careers given the opportunity
· What our panelists miss about working in the lab 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter

Connect with Dr. Procop
Dr. Procop at the American Board of Pathology
Dr. Procop on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Walsh-Feeks
Ms. Walsh-Feeks on Twitter
Ms. Walsh-Feeks on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Gomes
Ms. Gomes at Stony Brook University
Ms. Gomes on LinkedIn

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Mulder
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Mulder on Twitter 

Resources
American Association of Pathologists’ Assistants
NYU’s Advanced Management Program for Clinicians
NAHQ’s CPHQ Certification
ACHE’s FACHE Certification
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S3Ep11: 10 Lab Safety Issues That Put You at Risk09 May 202300:57:10

Do you cut corners when it comes to laboratory safety? 

Little things like carrying your cell phone, rolling up the sleeves of your lab coat, or skipping the hurricane drill don’t seem like a big deal in the moment. But when you consider the potential risks to you, your colleagues, your family, and anyone else you might encounter, even small safety violations can have a big impact. 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, your hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails, MT(ASCP), and Dr. Ali Brown, MD, FASCP, are joined by Mr. Sean Kaufman, MPH, CPH, IFBA-CP, CEO and Founding Partner of Safer Behaviors, Dr. Jason Nagy, PhD, MLS(ASCP), QLS, Laboratory Safety Support Coordinator for Sentara Healthcare, and Mr. Dan Scungio, MT(ASCP), SLS, CQA(ASQ), Laboratory Safety Consultant and Laboratory Safety Officer at Sentara Healthcare, to discuss the most common safety issues facing today’s medical labs. 

Our panelists explore the risks involved in having our cell phones in the medical laboratory and explain why so many leaders fail to hold their teams accountable for laboratory safety. 

Mr. Kaufman, Dr. Nagy, and Mr. Scungio describe why effective education is key in establishing a safety culture in the lab and how some of the things we do for the sake of safety increase our risk. 

Listen in for insight on effective emergency management planning and learn how to protect yourself and others from the greatest safety risks we face in the medical lab. 

Topics Covered 
· The top 10 safety issues facing today’s medical laboratories
· The surprising personal items that have been found in drawers during lab safety audits
· Examples of specimen transport safety issues 
· The 3 Cs of transferring specimens—coordination, communication, and common courtesy
· The risks involved in having cell phones in the medical laboratory
· Why effective education is key in establishing a safety culture in the lab (and what that looks like)
· Advice on preparing for emergencies that don’t occur often
· How laboratory leaders fail to hold their teams accountable for lab safety
· How we cut corners around PPE compliance (lab coats, goggles and face shields)
· The challenges around defining clean vs. dirty areas of the laboratory
· Why most laboratories are lacking when it comes to chemical and waste management
· How some of the things we do for the sake of safety increase our risk
· How human risk factors (i.e.: interpersonal conflict, mental and emotional fitness, etc.) are the greatest safety risks we face in the medical laboratory 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter

Connect with Mr. Kaufman
Safer Behaviors
Mr. Kaufman on LinkedIn

Connect with Dr. Nagy
Sentara Healthcare
Dr. Nagy on LinkedIn


Connect with Mr. Scungio
Dan the Lab Safety Man
Mr. Scungio on LinkedIn

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Brown
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Brown on Twitter

Resources
Lablogatory
OSHA
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S3EP10: Saved by the Lab: A LIVE ‘90s Trivia Contest18 Apr 202300:16:58

Are you ready for Medical Laboratory Professionals Week?  

Our annual celebration of pathologists and medical laboratory professionals begins April 23, 2023, and this year’s theme is Saved by the Lab, a play on the popular sitcom from the 1990s, Saved by the Bell. In honor of Zack Morris and friends from Bayside High, we’re revisiting the ‘90s to explore what was going on in the world—and the world of laboratory medicine. 

On this LIVE episode of Inside the Lab, your host, Ms. Kelly Swails, MLS(ASCP), is joined by Dr. Robert A. Goulart, MD, MASCP, FCAP, Associate Chief of Anatomic Pathology and Director of Quality and Patient Safety at the University of Massachusetts Memorial Health System and President-Elect of ASCP, Mr. Sean McNair, MPH, Cytology Education Coordinator at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Program Director for the Cytology Training Program at Hunter College, Ms. Stephanie Y. Whitehead, MPH, MBA, MLS(ASCP), Executive Director of Pathology and Laboratory Services at University Health System in San Antonio, Texas, and Chair Elect for the Council of Laboratory Professionals, and Dr. Constantine Kanakis, MD, MSc, MLS(ASCP), Resident Physician at Loyola Medicine in Chicago and Member of the ASCP Patient Champions Advisory Board, for a ‘90s trivia showdown. 

Our panelists answer questions about ‘90s pop culture, including the highest grossing movies, chart-topping music and hottest toys of the decade.Dr. Goulart, Mr. McNair, Ms. Whitehead and Dr. Kanakis also test their knowledge of noteworthy lab news from the ‘90s. Listen in to find out which of our panelists took home the coveted prize, a tote bag filled with Saved by the Lab gear! 

Topics Covered
· Popular ‘90s trends such as the Tamagotchi, Tickle Me Elmo, Harry Potter and reality television
· ‘90s pop culture trivia, e.g.: the most-watched episode of TV, highest grossing movie and chart-topping music of the decade
· Lab-specific ‘90s trivia like when ASCP elected a laboratory professional to the Board of Directors for the first time or how many lab professionals were working in the US at that time
· Noteworthy laboratory news from the ‘90s, including Marie Gatscha’s testimony to Congress on behalf of ASCP, the revision of the WHO Blue Book on bone tumors, and trastuzumab’s impact on breast cancer treatment 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Goulart
Dr. Goulart on LinkedIn 

Connect with Mr. McNair
Mr. McNair on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Whitehead
Ms. Whitehead on LinkedIn
Ms. Whitehead on Twitter
Ms. Whitehead on Instagram 

Connect with Dr. Kanakis
Dr. Kanakis on LinkedIn
Dr. Kanakis on Twitter
Dr. Kanakis at Loyola Pathology 

Connect with Ms. Swails
Ms. Swails on Twitter 

Resources
ASCP Lab Week Resources
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

Challenges for Lab Professionals to Expect in 202528 Feb 202500:47:38

In this episode of Inside the Lab, Dr. Ali Brown sits down with guests Sean Tucker, MLS(ASCP)CM and Laura Severs, MHA, MLS(ASCP)CM to discuss their predictions for what 2025 holds for laboratory professionals. Topics discussed include:

  • How workforce trends will continue in the near future and what strategies may work for addressing them;
  • What to expect with automation and what pros and cons automation holds for Labradorians; 
  • What challenges, risks, and benefits cybersecurity holds for laboratory professionals, particular as digital pathology becomes more prevalent;
  • What's coming with AI and what it means for the practice of laboratory medicine. 
S3Ep9-Sometimes It’s a Zebra: Unusual Cases in the Microbiology Lab28 Mar 202300:46:59

The medical laboratory is often seen as a black box that generates definitive results with little effort. But it’s not always that simple.

What if you work up a culture and find an unusual bacteria or fungus? What do the technologists in the microbiology laboratory do to investigate these uncommon cases and provide their patients with a proper diagnosis? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails, MLS(ASCP), and Dr. Ali Brown, MD, FASCP, are joined by Dr. Clare McCormick-Baw, MD, FASCP, Medical Director of Infectious Diseases Serology and Molecular Microbiology at Parkland Health in Dallas, Texas, and Assistant Professor in the Department of Pathology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dr. Andrew Clark, PhD, D(ABMM), Medical Directory of the Microbiology Laboratory at Clements University Hospital and Assistant Professor at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, and Dr. Laura Filkins, PhD, D(ABMM), Clinical Microbiology Laboratory Director at Children’s Health System of Texas in Dallas, Texas, and Assistant Professor of Pathology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, to share their most interesting microbiology cases. 

Dr. Clark discusses an immunosuppressed 73-year-old man with persistent diarrhea who was diagnosed with invasive GI mucormycosis, and Dr. McCormick-Baw describes the case of the healthy 51-year-old woman whose abdominal fullness was caused by coccidioidomycosis, not cancer.  Listen in for Dr. Filkins’ insight on getting the CDC involved when a four-year-old patient contracted Burkholderia pseudomallei and learn how committed clinical laboratory scientists kept digging until they found answers for these three unique patients!

Topics Covered
· Dr. Clark’s case of an immunosuppressed 73-year-old man with persistent diarrhea
· How Dr. Clark’s team found Mucor mold in their patient’s stool culture and diagnosed him with invasive GI mucormycosis
· How rare GI mucormycosis is and why it’s nearly always terminal
· Dr. McCormick-Baw’s case of a healthy 51-year-old woman who presented with abdominal fullness
· How Dr. McCormick-Baw’s team determined that their patient did not have cancer but did have coccidioidomycosis
· Why it took two years after Dr. McCormick-Baw’s patient contracted Coccidioides on a hike for symptoms to present
· Dr. Filkins’ case of a previously healthy four-year-old female (with a colorful animal history) who presented with nausea, vomiting, lethargy and decreased appetite
· How Dr. Filkins’ team cultured their young patient’s tracheal aspirate specimen and found the high-risk pathogen Burkholderia pseudomallei
· How the local health lab, local epidemiologist and CDC’s joint investigation uncovered four cases of Burkholderia pseudomallei in the U.S. and traced them to aromatherapy bottles manufactured in India
· How the CDC, EPA and Texas public health agencies discovered that Dr. Filkins’ patient’s pet raccoon died of Burkholderia pseudomallei and decontaminated its burial site

Connect with ASCP
ASCP on Twitter
Connect with Dr. McCormick-Baw
Dr. McCormick-Baw at UT Southwestern
Connect with Dr. Clark
Dr. Clark at UT Southwestern
Connect with Dr. Filkins
Dr. Filkins at UT Southwestern
Resources
Burkholderia Pseudomalliei Detected in a Raccoon Carcass Linked to a Multistate Aromatherapy-Associated Melioidosis Outbreak’ in Morbidity and Mortality 

S3Ep8: Amplifying the Voice of Pathology in the AMA07 Mar 202300:45:08

ASCP is committed to developing policies that improve public health through the practice of laboratory medicine. One of the ways that the Society participates in public policy is through our delegation to the American Medical Association (AMA).  

So, what does it mean to be an ASCP delegate to the AMA? How well is pathology represented within the AMA House of Delegates? And why does that representation matter? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, your hosts Dr. Ali Brown, MD, FASCP, and Dr. Lotte Mulder, PhD, are joined by ASCP delegates to the AMA Dr. William Finn, MD, MASCP, Medical Director of the Joint Venture Hospital Laboratories and Past President of ASCP, Dr. Jennifer Stall, MD, Anatomic and Clinical Pathologist at Hospital Pathology Associates in Minneapolis-Saint Paul, Minnesota, and Dr. H. Cliff Sullivan, MD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and Director of the Cellular Therapy Laboratory at Emory University, to discuss laboratory medicine’s representation within the American Medical Association. 

Our panelists discuss the AMA’s function as a professional association and lobbying group for physicians and medical students and share their experiences as delegates to the AMA from ASCP.  Dr. Finn, Dr. Stall, and Dr. Sullivan explain the responsibilities as delegates to the AMA and offer examples of how ASCP’s involvement in the AMA serves the interests of ASCP members and our patients.  Listen in for insight around the AMA initiatives and programs pathologists should be aware of and learn how you can get involved in amplifying the voice of pathologists in the AMA. 

Topics Covered 
· How the AMA functions as a professional association and lobbying group for physicians and medical students
· How the AMA fulfills its mission to promote the art and science of medicine and the betterment of public health
· Who serves as ASCP’s full delegates to the AMA and who serves as alternate delegates
· How well pathology is represented within the AMA and why that representation matters
· How the pathology voice is received in the egalitarian system of the AMA
· How ASCP’s involvement in the AMA serves the interests of ASCP members and our patients
· How to get involved with the AMA 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter
Connect with Dr. Finn
Dr. Finn on LinkedIn
Connect with Dr.Stall
Dr. Stall on Twitter
Connect with Dr. Sullivan
Dr. Sullivan at Emory University
Connect with Dr. Mulder & Dr. Brown
Dr. Mulder on Twitter
Dr. Brown on Twitter
Resources
American Medical Association
ASCP Resident Council
VALID Act of 2021
CLIA Law & Regulations
ASCP Institute for Science, Technology and Public Policy
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S3Ep7: Everything You Need to Know About RISE14 Feb 202300:38:28

ASCP’s Resident In-Service Exam, better known as RISE, began in 1983, and it was designed as a study tool for board exams.  

But RISE has evolved over time in response to feedback from program directors and residents alike, adapting to remain relevant to practice and help students identify their individual strengths and weaknesses.

 So, what do you need to know about the Resident In-Service Exam and how it can ensure your success as an emerging pathologist or laboratory professional?  

On this episode of Inside the Lab, your hosts Dr. Ali Brown, MD, FASCP, and Ms. Kelly Swails, MT(ASCP), are joined by Mr. Jay Wagner, MBA, MLS(ASCP), Director of Assessment, Measurement, Evaluation, Examinations and Outcomes at ASCP, and Dr. Jonathan Genzen, MD, PhD, Associate Professor at the University of Utah, CMO at ARUP Laboratories and Chair of the RISE Committee, to discuss the evolution of ASCP’s Resident In-Service Exam. 

Mr. Wagner and Dr. Genzen discuss who is responsible for writing questions for RISE, what that process looks like, and why the committee doesn’t repeat questions from year-to-year. The panelists explain how RISE supports you in learning from the questions you miss and why there’s such a significant correlation between RISE scores and ABPath pass rates. Listen in for insight on how to study for RISE and learn how the exam helps gauge residents’ progress in becoming the next generation of pathologists and laboratory professionals!

Topics Covered 
· How ASCP’s Resident In-Service Exam has evolved since its inception 
· Who is responsible for writing the questions for RISE and what the process looks like
· How the RISE Committee makes the exam relevant for international participants
· The correlation between Resident In-Service Exam scores and ABPath pass rates
· How RISE is scored and how it helps you learn from the questions you miss
· When RISE is given and how you can take it all four years of your residency
· How the online format gives program directors flexibility in the administration of RISE
· RISE’s purpose in gauging resident progress and identifying strengths and weaknesses
· Using the Resident Question Bank to study for RISE

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Mr. Wagner
Mr. Wagner on LinkedIn

Connect with Dr. Genzen
Dr. Genzen at the University of Utah
Dr. Genzen on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Brown
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Brown on Twitter

Resources
ASCP Resident In-Service Exam
ASCP Resident Question Bank [Promo Code POD50]
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

Special Episode: Castleman's Disease 09 Feb 202300:52:06

Castleman Disease: Case-based Microlearning  Activity Overview

This CME/CMLE-accredited, case-based microlearning activity is designed to help laboratory team members increase their knowledge, skills, and competence in diagnosing multicentric Castleman disease and to be informed of changes in clinical practice guidelines. Through a series of four 15-minute cases developed by a multidisciplinary team, you will gain a greater understanding of multicentric Castleman disease, how to differentiate it from potential mimics, and updated guidelines for diagnosis. The activity offers 1.0 CME/CMLE credit.

Target Audience The target audience for this activity consists of pathologists and laboratory professionals.   

Activity Agenda
 ·         Introduction to Castleman disease
 ·         Case-based approach to diagnosing Castleman disease, featuring multidisciplinary perspectives

Accreditation Statement
The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education (CME) for physicians. 
Credit Designation Statement
The ASCP designates this online microlearning activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.  ASCP designates this online microlearning activity for a maximum of 1.0 CMLE credit.  This activity meets CMP and state re-licensure requirements for laboratory personnel. For questions regarding CME credit, please contact ASCP Customer Service at 1-800-267-2727, during normal business hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time

Method of Participation To complete the activity and receive credit, the participant must complete all four cases in the microlearning activity. CME certificates will be provided online. 
Commercial Support This activity is funded by an independent educational grant from Recordati Rare Diseases Inc.. 

Faculty
Anamarija Perry, MD
Associate Professor, Hematopathology, Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan
David Fajgenbaum, MD, MBA, MSc
Assistant Professor of Medicine, Translational Medicine & Human Genetics, University of Pennsylvania
Seth Kligerman, MD 
Professor, Division Chief of Cardiothoracic Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego 

S3Ep6:Leadership Institute Book Club: Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez24 Jan 202300:43:26

Data is fundamental to the modern world. From education to healthcare to economic development and public policy, we rely on data to allocate resources and make decisions. 

In Caroline Criado Perez’s groundbreaking book, Invisible Women: Exposing Data Bias in a World Designed for Men, she contends that there’s a gender data gap. And because the bulk of the world’s data is based on male bodies and behaviors, we live in a world that caters to men and disadvantages women. How does this gender data gap impact women in pathology and laboratory medicine? And what can we do to make the profession more inclusive? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, Host Kelly Swails, MT(ASCP), is joined by Dr. Alison Krywanczyk, MD, FASCP, Deputy Medical Examiner at the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office in Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Letycia Catalina Nunez-Argote, PhD, MPH, MLS(ASCP)CM, Assistant Professor of Clinical Laboratory Sciences at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas, and Dr. Catherine M. Stefaniuk, DO, MBA, FASCP, Assistant Medical Director of Clinical Pathology at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, for an ASCP Leadership Institute Book Club discussion of Invisible Women.

Dr. Krywanczyk, Dr. Nunez-Argote, and Dr. Stefaniuk discuss the unpaid work many women do and share their experiences with the changing roles of breadwinner and homemaker between the genders. They explore the negative perceptions of women in positions of authority and explain how the myth of meritocracy has impacted their careers in pathology and laboratory medicine. Listen in for insight on designing laboratory spaces for women and learn to leverage your knowledge as a medical professional to advocate for women in the healthcare system.

Topics Covered
· How the gender data gap in healthcare caters to men and actively disadvantages women
· The unpaid work most women do and the changing roles of breadwinner and homemaker between the genders
· Why so many women trade flexibility for advancement and how working part-time disadvantages women in terms of healthcare and retirement benefits
·  How the gender data gap impacts pathology and laboratory medicine and what we can do to make the laboratory more amenable to women
· The negative perceptions of women in positions of authority and how that impacts the way we work
·  Situations where our knowledge as medical professionals can help us advocate for women whose symptoms are not understood or believed
· How insights gained from Invisible Women will influence decision-making moving forward 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter
Connect with Dr. Krywanczyk
Dr. Krywanczyk on Twitter
Connect with Dr.Nunez-Argote
Dr. Nunez-Argote on Twitter
Connect with Dr. Stefaniuk
Dr. Stefaniuk on LinkedIn

Resources
ASCP Leadership Institute
Invisible Women: Exposing Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Perez
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S3Ep5: Sometimes It’s a Zebra: Unusual Cases in Surgical Pathology—with Dr. Cesar Moran03 Jan 202301:00:34

In medicine, we’re taught to recognize hoofbeats as horses rather than zebras. But what happens when a surgical pathology diagnosis really is a zebra? 

What is the best way to approach a challenging case? And how do you know when to ask for help? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails, MT(ASCP), and Dr. Ali Brown, MD, FASCP, are joined by Dr. Cesar Moran, MD, Tenured Professor of Pathology at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, to share some of the most challenging surgical pathology cases he’s faced. 

Dr. Moran describes three different types of difficult cases and discusses what to do when a tumor appears to be a new entity. Listen in for Dr. Moran’s insight on fighting against the bias of your default diagnosis and get his advice on how to know when you don’t know and ask your colleagues for help.  

Topics Covered 
· Dr. Moran’s take on the 3 different types of challenging surgical pathology cases
· How the expectations for surgical pathologists to provide a diagnosis have risen exponentially
· The volume of tissue issue in thoracic pathology
· Dr. Moran’s approach to a challenging surgical pathology case
· What to do when a tumor appears to be a new entity
· Why pathologists are unlikely to be replaced by technology
· How the diagnostic tools for surgical pathologists have evolved from electron microscopy to immunohistochemistry to molecular studies
· Examples of the most challenging cases Dr. Moran has faced in his career
· Why it’s challenging to consider unusual possibilities when you come in with a default diagnosis
· How to fight against the bias of default diagnosis
· Why Dr. Moran considers benign diagnoses to be the most difficult ones
· Dr. Moran’s advice for practicing pathologists on when to ask colleagues for help

 Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Moran
Dr. Moran at MD Anderson
Dr. Moran on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Brown
 Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Brown on Twitter 

Resources
Become a Member of ASCP
‘Xanthomatous Thymoma: A Clinicopathologic and Immunohistochemical Study of 10 Cases’ in the American Journal of Clinical Pathology
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

 

S3Ep4: Leading Laboratories 13 Dec 202200:45:21

Medical laboratories, in general, struggle with visibility. And laboratory professionals rarely get the recognition they deserve for the important work that they do. The Leading Laboratories program is on a mission to change that. This partnership between ASCP and The Joint Commission seeks to recognize excellence in laboratory practice, awarding the Leading Laboratories designation to labs with an exemplary focus on impacting quality patient outcomes. 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails and Dr. Ali Brown, are joined by Ms. Barbara Caldwell, MS, MASCP, MLS(ASCP)SHCM, Former Administrative Director of Clinical Laboratory Services at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center in Olney, Maryland; Ms. Lynnette Chakkaphak, MS, MLS(ASCP), Director of Clinical Operations at Ascension St. Vincent's Riverside Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida; and Ms. Diana Kremitske, MHA, MS, MLS(ASCP), Vice President of the Diagnostic Medicine Institute at Geisinger in Danville, Pennsylvania, to discuss the new Leading Laboratories program. 

Ms. Caldwell, Ms. Chakkaphak, and Ms. Kremitske describe their involvement in the development of Leading Laboratories and explain how a laboratory earns the prestigious designation. Listen in to learn how to follow the program’s roadmap for building strong, successful medical laboratories across the country. 

Topics Covered 
· The goal of the Leading Laboratories program and how a lab earns the prestigious designation
· What differentiates the Leading Laboratories designation from laboratory accreditation
· The four key components of the Leading Laboratories program
· How to compile and submit a portfolio of evidence to the Leading Laboratories program
· How the Leading Laboratories program addresses the workforce recruitment and retention crisis among pathologists and medical laboratory professionals
· How The Joint Commission’s involvement in Leading Laboratories impacts its visibility among executives in hospital C-suites
· How Leading Laboratories provides a roadmap to build stronger, more successful laboratories across the country 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Ms. Caldwell
Ms. Caldwell on LinkedIn

Connect with Ms. Chakkaphak
Ms. Chakkaphak on Twitter
Ms. Chakkaphak on LinkedIn

Connect with Ms. Kremitske
Ms. Kremitske on Twitter
Ms. Kremitske on LinkedIn

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Brown
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Brown on Twitter

Resources
Leading Laboratories Program
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

The Molecular Biomarker Revolution in Metastatic NSCLC03 Nov 202200:44:16

During this recorded 2022 ASCP Annual Meeting session, multidisciplinary faculty will discuss the science and latest evidence on emerging biomarkers, resistance mutations, immuno-oncology (I-O) resistance mechanisms, and I-O treatment options (e.g., combination therapy involving CTLA-4 inhibitors) in metastatic NSCLC.  In addition, they will address how to integrate next generation sequencing (NGS) into your biomarker testing workflows and optimize its use for patients.  Finally, they will share best practices in biomarker testing, reporting, and communication to help pathologists and laboratory professionals guide medical oncologists and other team members in the appropriate diagnosis, testing, and treatment for patients.  

The activity offers 1.0 CME/CMLE credit.  

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education (CME) for physicians.  

 Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this activity, you should be able to:
·         Describe ongoing investigational efforts regarding emerging biomarkers in metastatic NSCLC 
·         Utilize NGS to identify current and emerging biomarkers to predict response to personalized therapies for patients with metastatic NSCLC 
·         Employ strategies for optimizing workflows and turnaround times for NGS 
·         Discuss the science behind resistance mechanisms in patients with metastatic NSCLC 
·         Recognize the use of emerging I-O combination therapies and potential biomarkers in patients with metastatic NSCLC 
·         Develop ways to improve communication among pathologists, oncologists, and other members of the multidisciplinary lung cancer care team 

Faculty

Diana N. Ionescu MD, FRCPC, FCAP
Consultant Pathologist and Medical Lead Anatomical Pathology 
Medical Director BC Cervical Cancer Screening Laboratory 
Medical Director Clinical Trials, BC Cancer Laboratories 
Clinical Professor of Pathology, University of British Columbia 

Doru Paul, MD, PhD
Attending Physician, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology 
Weill Cornell and New York Presbyterian Hospital  

Faculty Disclosures

The following Panel/Faculty members have relevant financial relationships to disclose: 

 | Faculty Member | Ineligible Company | For what role?
| Diana Ionescu, MD | AstraZeneca, Bayer, BMS, Merck, Pfizer, Roche | Consultant, Consultant, Consultant, Consultant, Consultant, Consultant 

Dr. Paul has no relevant financial relationships to disclose 

All of the relevant financial relationships listed for these individuals have been mitigated  

Commercial Support
Funded by an independent educational grant from AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals

S3Ep3: Regional Medical Laboratory Scientists01 Nov 202200:46:47

So, you like your job as a medical laboratory professional, but you’re restless. You have dreams of a bigger life. One that allows you to serve others and satisfy your wanderlust. 

You might consider becoming a Regional Medical Laboratory Scientist with the US State Department, a role that requires an affinity for travel, a passion for service, and a well-rounded background on the bench. 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our host, Ms. Kelly Swails, is joined byMs. Danielle Forester, MLS(ASCP)CM, former Microbiology Specialist at Quest Diagnostics and current RMLS in Beijing, China, Mr. Dave Keddington, MLS(ASCP)CM, former Technical Supervisor at ARUP Laboratories and current RMLS in Jakarta, Indonesia, and Ms. Stacy Deckard, MLS(ASCP)CM, former Medical Technologist at Carle Foundation Hospital and current RMLS in New Delhi, India, to share their experiences working with the Foreign Service as Regional Medical Laboratory Scientists. 

Our panelists discuss the pros and cons of working as an RMLS, describing how they serve the diplomatic community, embassy staff and their local communities. They explore how being a Regional Medical Laboratory Scientist impacts work-life balance and explain how the compensation package compares to working in a lab in the US. Listen in for advice on applying to be a Regional Medical Laboratory Scientist and learn how becoming an RMLS gives you the opportunity to experience other cultures firsthand and expand your worldview. 

Topics Covered 
· How each of our panelists found out about working with the Foreign Service and what prompted them to apply
· How a well-rounded background and experience in training prepares you to work as an RMLS with the Foreign Service
· How RMLSs serve the diplomatic community, embassy staff and their local community
· What Ms. Forester, Mr. Keddington & Ms. Deckard like best about working as a Regional Medical Laboratory Scientist
· The most challenging aspects of working as an RMLS for the US State Department
· How RMLSs and their families benefit from experiencing other cultures firsthand and expanding their worldview
· How being an RMLS impacts your social life, personal travel and work-life balance
· What it’s like for the family members of Regional Medical Laboratory Scientists
· How the compensation package for an RMLS compares to working in a lab in the US
· Advice to anyone applying to be an RMLS in the Foreign Service 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Mr. Keddington
Mr. Keddington on LinkedIn

Connect with Ms. Deckard
Ms. Deckard on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Swails
Ms. Swails on Twitter 

Resources
USAJOBS
CAP Inspector Tools and Training
Affinity Groups at the US State Department
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

Special Episode: Evolving and Emerging Trends in HER2 Classification and Reporting in Breast Cancer20 Oct 202200:56:20

The emergence of HER2-low therapies for metastatic breast cancer is a paradigm shift in the traditional binary classification of a patient’s HER2 status, creating a need for practice changes in pathology necessitated by the expansion in how HER2-low breast cancer needs to be classified and treated. During this recorded 2022 ASCP Annual Meeting session, a moderated expert faculty panel will discuss evolving and emerging trends in breast cancer classification and reporting across the HER2+ spectrum. They will also discuss how pathologists and laboratory professionals can prepare for HER2-low classification, tracking, and reporting. In addition, they will review some of the current challenges in HER2 testing and explore opportunities to prepare for the future landscape of HER classification in breast cancer.  The activity offers 1.0 CME/CMLE credit.  The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education (CME) for physicians.  

Faculty
Swikrity U. Baskota, MD
Assistant Professor, Department of Pathology, and Cell Biology
Columbia University Irving Medical Center 

Marilyn Bui, MD, PhD
Senior Member and Professor of Pathology
Scientific Director of Analytic Microscopy Core
Program Director of Cytopathology Fellowship
Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute 

Mamatha Chivukula, MD, FASCP
Director of Breast Pathology Services and IHC Lab
Mills Peninsula Medical Center, Sutter Health Affiliate 

Joseph Kim, MD, MBA, MPH
President
Q Synthesis 

Credit Designation Statement  The ASCP designates this enduring podcast activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.  ASCP designates this enduring podcast activity for a maximum of 1.0 CMLE credit.  This activity meets CMP and state re-licensure requirements for laboratory personnel.  For questions regarding CME credit, please contact ASCP Customer Service at 1-800-267-2727, during normal business hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time 

Method of Participation  To complete the activity and receive credit, the participant must complete the podcast activity. CME certificates will be provided on-line.  

Commercial Support 

Funded by independent educational grants from AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo, Inc.

Provided by the American Society for Clinical Pathology in partnership with Q Synthesis.

Setting Up a Laboratory Test Stewardship Program15 Jan 202500:50:22

In this episode of Inside the Lab, guests Jane Dickerson, PhD and Elise Occhipinti, MD join host Kelly Swails to discuss the creation and maintenance of laboratory test stewardship programs. Topics covered include: 

  • How and why your organization should set up a stewardship program
  • Involving stakeholders in the process 
  • The essential components of a success program
  • Metrics and key performance indicators to track
  • Resources, guidelines, and toolkits for those looking to create their own program
S3Ep2: The Not-So-Trivial History of ASCP11 Oct 202200:26:09

In the 100 years since its founding in 1922, the American Society for Clinical Pathology has guided the application and evolution of pathology and laboratory medicine. 

But how much do you know about the history of ASCP? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab recorded live at the ASCP Annual Meeting in Chicago, our hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails and Dr. Lotte Mulder, are joined by Team Total Kuality, Dr. Kamran Mirza, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Pathology at Loyola Medicine, and Dr. Theresa Tellier-Castellone, EdD, MPH, MLS(ASCP)CM, Program Director for the School of Medical Technology at Our Lady of Fatima and Rhode Island Hospital; Team Buffy Coat, Dr. Kim Sanford, MD, MASCP, MT(ASCP), Past President of ASCP, and Dr. Will Finn, MD, MASCP, Medical Director at Warde Medical Lab and Past President of ASCP; and Team Diplococcus, Ms. Christy Nickel, MHA, MLS(ASCP)CM, CPHQ, ASCP CMLA Chair and Director of the Clinical Laboratory at Bryan Health, and Ms. Jeannie Guglielmo, MS, MAT, MLS(ASCP)CM, Chair of the Clinical Laboratory Science Program at Stony Brook University, for an enthusiastic game of ASCP Trivia. 

Our teams answer questions about the ethical issues that concerned ASCP in its early years and the goals of the organization that have remained consistent since its founding in 1922. They buzz in to share their knowledge of how we made history by electing Dr. Emma Sadler Moss as President in 1955. Listen in as the teams compete for bragging rights (and a glow-in-the-dark Erlenmeyer flask). 

Topics Covered 
· Dr. Emma Sadler Moss’ roles at Charity Hospital in New Orleans and with ASCP in the 1950s
· The ethical issues around the practice of pathology that concerned ASCP in its early years
· Other professional organizations founded at ASCP meetings
· Why ASCP changed its name to the American Society for Clinical Pathology in 2002
· How ASCP’s Center for Global Health is responding to disasters and expanding laboratory services all over the world
· What goals ASCP established when the organization was founded in 1922 (and how those goals have remained consistent in the years since)
· How ASCP made history by electing the first female president of a medical organization in 1955 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter
Connect with Team Total Kuality
Dr. Mirza on Twitter
Dr. Tellier-Castellone on Twitter
Connect with Team Buffy Coat
Dr. Sanford on Twitter
Dr. Finn on Twitter
Connect with Team Diplococcus
Ms. Nickel on LinkedIn
Ms. Guglielmo on LinkedIn
Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Mulder
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Mulder on Twitter
Resources
ASCP Annual Meeting
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S3Ep1: Current Trends in MLS Education20 Sep 202200:45:13

What are MLS education programs doing to address the workforce shortage in the medical lab and provide opportunities for career advancement? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts, Ms. Patricia Tanabe and Ms. Kelly Swails, are joined by Ms. Patricia Ellinger, MSEd, MLS(ASCP)CMSBBCM, MLS Faculty and Former MLS Program Director at St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud, Minnesota, Ms. Sue Johnson, MSTM, MT(ASCP)CMSBBCM, Director of Clinical Education at Versiti and Director of the Transfusion Medicine Program at Marquette University, Dr. Elizabeth Glockel-Blessing, PhD, MLS(ASCP)CM, Associate Dean for Students and Academic Affairs in the Doisy College of Health Sciences at Saint Louis University, and Ms. Amanda Reed, MAE, MLS(ASCP)CM, Director of the Medical Laboratory Science Program at Saint Louis University, to discuss current trends in MLS education. 

Our panelists describe the MLT to MLS bridge program at St. Cloud State, the blood bank internship program at Versiti, and the hybrid MLS program at Saint Louis University. They explore how hybrid, online and accelerated models open up more seats for students and explain how clinicals work in their respective MLS programs. Learn how MLS programs are evolving to meet the demand for medical laboratory scientists and move the profession forward.

Topics Covered 
· The education paradigm our panelists are using in their respective MLS programs
· Ms. Ellinger’s MLT to MLS bridge program and how it’s individualized for each student
· The blood center-based blood bank internship program Ms. Johnson is developing and how participants separate their time as students vs. employees
· How Dr. Glockel-Blessing and Ms. Reed’s hybrid MLS program differs from a traditional MLS program and why it targets students with biology and chemistry degrees
· The 3 categorical programs offered at SLU and which generates the most interest
· How clinicals work in the MLT to MLS bridge, MLS hybrid and BB internship programs
· The advantages and disadvantages of each paradigm
· How hybrid and online programs open up more seats for students in MLS programs
· Our panelist's insight around the future of MLS education

Connect with ASCP
ASCP

Connect with Ms. Ellinger
Ms. Ellinger on LinkedIn

Connect with Ms. Johnson
Ms. Johnson on LinkedIn

Connect with Dr. Glockel-Blessing
Dr. Glockel-Blessing on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Reed
Ms. Reed on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Tanabe & Ms. Swails
Ms. Tanabe on LinkedIn
Ms. Swails on Twitter

Resources
MLT to MLS Program at St. Cloud State University
Transfusion Medicine Blood Banking Fellowships at Versiti
SLU’s Hybrid MLS Degree
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep23: Celebrating a Century of ASCP 30 Aug 202200:35:26

Since its inception in 1922, the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) has worked to provide excellence in education, certification, and advocacy on behalf of patients, pathologists, and laboratory professionals. 

And while the implementation of these principles has changed dramatically in the last 100 years, the core values of the organization have not. ASCP maintains its patient focus and ongoing commitment to education and standardization. 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails and Mr. David Ritter, LMS Business Analyst for eLearning at ASCP, are joined by Dr. Fred Rodriguez, MD, MASCP, FCAP, Emma Moss Professor of Pathology at the LSU School of Medicine and Former President of the American Society for Clinical Pathology, to discuss the history of ASCP. 

Dr. Rodriguez discusses how and why the organization was founded in 1922, describing ASCP’s role at the forefront of developing standards for laboratory practices. He explains how ASCP’s Board of Registry Certification became the global gold standard for excellence in laboratory testing and explores the professional organization’s efforts to standardize Medical Laboratory Science programs in the last 100 years. Listen in to understand the challenges to advocating for our profession and the critical part pathologists and lab professionals play in modern medicine. 

Topics Covered 
· What the field of pathology was like when ASCP was founded in the early 1920s
· How and why ASCP was founded as a not-for-profit organization
· The 5 objectives articulated in the ASCP constitution (and why they have endured for 100 years)
· ASCP’s role at the forefront of developing standards for laboratory testing
· How ASCP’s Board of Registry Certification became the gold standard for excellence in lab testing worldwide
· ASCP’s efforts to standardize Medical Laboratory Science programs over the last 100 years
· What factors contributed to ASCP’s growth after World War II 
· ASCP’s role in supporting pathologists in developing countries
· How COVID serves as an illustration of the importance of laboratory medicine
· Concerns around the proliferation of point-of-care testing and what that means for the laboratory 
· Advocating for the profession to emphasize our critical role in modern medicine 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter
Email podcast@ascp.org 

Connect with Dr. Rodriguez
Dr. Rodriguez at LSU Health
Email fred.rodriguez@ascp.org  

Connect with Ms. Swails & Mr. Ritter
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Mr. Ritter on LinkedIn 

Resources
'The American Society for Clinical Pathology: The Pathology Society of Firsts’ in Laboratory Medicine
Center for Global Health
The US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief
ASCP 2022 Annual Meeting
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep22: Bridging the Gap Between Baby Boomers and Gen Z09 Aug 202200:50:08

Baby boomers are competitive, self-actualizing, and results-oriented, while Gen Xers are pragmatic, independent, and adaptable. Millennials are known for being team-oriented, creative and resilient, and Gen Zers are entrepreneurial, compassionate, and open to change. 

But how do the perspectives of different generations play out inside the medical laboratory? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts, Dr. Lotte Mulder and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Dr. James Crawford, MD, PhD, Chair of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra and Senior Vice President of Laboratory Services at Northwell Health, Ms. Rosie Garris, MLS(ASCP)CM, recent graduate of Upstate Medical University and Medical Technician at Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, New York, and Ms. Dana Powell Baker, MBA, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, Manager of Academic Partnerships with the Association of Public Health Laboratories and Chair for the ASCP Council of Laboratory Professionals, to share their experiences working with different generations in the lab. 

Our panelists discuss the characteristics of the generation they identify with and describe the strengths they bring to the workplace based on their age. They offer examples of the collision of generational perspectives at work, exploring the downside of being a baby boomer, Gen Xer, millennial, or Gen Zer in the lab. Listen in for Dr. Crawford, Ms. Garris, and Ms. Powell Baker's insight on adapting to meet the needs of others and learn how to best collaborate with colleagues of different generations in the medical lab. 

Topics Covered 
·  The benefits of working with different generations in the laboratory
·  What strengths Dr. Crawford, Ms. Powell Baker, and Ms. Garris bring to the workplace based on their age
·  Examples of collisions of generational perspectives in the lab
·  The disadvantages of being a baby boomer, Gen Xer, millennial, or Gen Zer working in the lab
·  How our panelists have changed their behavior toward others in relation to the demographics of the workplace
·  What advice our panelists would give their younger selves as it relates to working with different generations in the medical laboratory 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
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ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Crawford
Dr. Crawford at Northwell Health
Dr. Crawford on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Garris
Ms. Garris on LinkedIn
Ms. Garris on Instagram 

Connect with Ms. Powell Baker
Ms. Powell Baker on Twitter
Ms. Powell Baker on LinkedIn 

Connect with Dr. Mulder & Ms. Swails
Dr. Mulder on Twitter
Ms. Swails on Twitter

Resources
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep21: What It's Like to Work Nights 19 Jul 202200:53:09

“It's a magical time in the hospital at night. It's a time that you can learn and a time that you can kind of have some independence ... with a small group of people that you trust, that are very good, just doing your job.” —Dr. Cathy Cooper 

Have you ever considered working the night shift in the medical laboratory? As with anything, there are pros and cons to working nights as a laboratory professional. If it’s a good fit for your personality, the night shift affords the opportunity to learn to trust yourself, to think critically, and form strong bonds with your small team. 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts, Dr. Dan Milner and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Ms. Angela Abbott, MLS(ASCP), Nightshift Supervisor of Laboratory Services at University Hospital in San Antonio, Texas, Dr. Nataliya Sostin, MD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Laboratory Medicine at Yale University School of Medicine and Laboratory Site Director at St. Raphael Hospital, and Dr. Cathy Cooper, MD, Anesthesiologist and Anesthesia Representative to the Blood Utilization Committee at Virginia Commonwealth University, to share their experiences working the night shift in the lab. 

Our panelists discuss what a typical night shift in the lab looks like, describing the most challenging night shift experience they’ve faced and how they dealt with the situation. They explore what hospital administration can do to support less experienced third shift bench techs and explain how to recruit and retain lab staff on the night shift. Listen in for insight on making decisions when you feel like you need backup and get advice for  laboratory professionals, technicians, and pathologists considering a night shift position. 

Topics Covered 
· How to navigate handoffs when coming on shift 
· The most challenging night shift experience our panelists have faced and how they dealt with the situation
· What hospital administration can do to support less experienced bench techs on the night shift
· What we can do to recruit and retain night shift lab staff
· Being called on to make decisions when you feel like you need backup to do so
· Examples of how to solve systemic problems for night shift staff in the lab
· Building relationships with hospital-wide night staff vs. laboratory colleagues on other shifts
· Advice to laboratory professionals, technicians, and pathologists considering a night shift position

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Ms. Abbott
University Health Laboratory Services

Connect with Dr. Sostin
Dr. Sostin at Yale School of Medicine 

Connect with Dr. Cooper
Dr. Cooper on LinkedIn
Dr. Cooper at VCU Health 

Connect with Dr. Milner & Ms. Swails
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Milner on Twitter 

Resources
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep20: Leadership Institute Book Club: Glennon Doyle's Untamed12 Jul 202200:54:25

In the introduction to Glennon Doyle’s latest memoir, she asks herself, “Who was I before I became who the world told me to be?” 

We’re all affected by social conditioning and make choices based on others’ expectations. And all too often, we make ourselves smaller to fit in the “cage” of what’s socially acceptable. So, what can we do to break free from social conditioning and start accepting our authentic selves? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts, Dr. Lotte Mulder and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Ms. Patty J. Eschliman, MHA, MLS(ASCP), DLM, Director of Laboratory Operations at Western Missouri Medical Center and Former Chair of the DLM Exam Committee for ASCP, Dr. Jennifer Kasten, MD, MSc, FASCP, Pediatric Pathologist at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and Member of the ASCP Pathologist Council, and Dr. Constantine ‘Aki’ Kanakis, MD, MSc, MLS(ASCP), Resident Physician at Loyola Medicine in Chicago and Member of the ASCP Patient Champions Advisory Board, to discuss Glennon Doyle’s bestseller, Untamed: Stop Pleasing, Start Living

Our panelists explore how much of our decision-making is based on other people’s expectations and what women can do to find freedom from social conditioning. They share some of the things they denied themselves over the years because they didn’t fit with societal expectations and explain what we can do to reconnect with parts of ourselves we’ve neglected. Listen in for insight around the “cages” we impose on ourselves and learn how the principles in Untamed might inform our work in the predominantly female field of laboratory medicine. 

Topics Covered
· How the expectations of our families and peer groups inform the “cages” we impose on ourselves
· How much our decision-making is based on  expectations of others (and why some expectations are beneficial)
· How to create a balance between forging your own path and asking for advice from others
· What we can do to reconnect with the parts of ourselves we’ve neglected
· How the themes covered in Untamed inform working in the laboratory  

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Ms. Eschliman
Ms. Eschliman on LinkedIn
The Lab Leader Coach 

Connect with Dr. Kasten
Dr. Kasten on Twitter
Dr. Kasten at Cincinnati Children’s 

Connect with Dr. Kanakis
Dr. Kanakis on Twitter
Dr. Kanakis at Loyola Pathology 

Connect with Dr. Mulder & Ms. Swails
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Mulder on Twitter 

Resources
Untamed by Glennon Doyle
ASCP Leadership Institute
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep19: Creating Robust Patient-Pathologist Consultation Programs21 Jun 202200:52:31

Most pathologists have limited face-to-face interaction with patients. And yet, many patients would benefit from the opportunity to discuss their lab results with a content expert. 

What can pathologists and laboratory professionals do to connect with the people we serve? How do we make ourselves available to patients and engage them as partners on their wellness journey? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts, Dr. Lotte Mulder and Dr. Ali Brown, Chief Officer of Medical Quality at ASCP, are joined by Dr. Lija Joseph, MD, Medical Director for the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Lowell General Hospital, Dr. Jeffrey L. Myers, MD, A. James French Professor of Diagnostic Pathology and Director of Michigan Medicine Laboratories at the University of Michigan, and Ms. Christie Vazquez, MSN, RN, CPN, Pediatric Nurse at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and ASCP Patient Champion, to discuss how patients benefit from talking to pathologists.  

Dr. Joseph and Dr. Myers explain what inspired them to create patient-pathologist consultation programs and explore how we might give patients direct access to a pathologist who can interpret their lab results. Listen in to understand how the CURES Act is impacts these programs and learn how to guide patients to trusted online resources when they don’t have immediate access to a laboratory professional. 

Topics Covered 
·  Why it's important for pathologists to talk to and connect with patients
·  What inspired Dr. Joseph and Dr. Myers to start patient-pathologist consultation programs at their institutions and the challenges of such a program 
·  How patients benefit from understanding their lab tests and pathology reports
·  Creating pathology reports that are easy for patients to understand
·  The stigma of pathologists not being skilled communicators (and what we can do to overcome it)
·  Why it’s crucial for pathologists to be clear about their area of expertise and refer questions that are out of their scope of practice back to the referring physician
·  How the CURES Act is impacting ’ patient-pathologist consultation programs 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter

Connect with Dr. Joseph
Dr. Joseph on Twitter
Dr. Joseph at Lowell General

Connect with Dr. Myers
Dr. Myers on Twitter
Dr. Myers at Michigan Medicine 

Connect with Ms. Vazquez
Ms. Vazquez on LinkedIn
Ms. Vazquez at ASCP Patient Champions 

Connect with Dr. Mulder & Dr. Brown
Dr. Mulder on Twitter
Dr. Brown on Twitter

Resources
CURES Act
ASCP Patient Champion Online Resources
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep18: Evolution of Anatomic and Clinical Pathology in the Last Century31 May 202200:54:54

Anatomic pathology has evolved dramatically in the last 100 years, moving from an entirely subjective practice to a standardized, evidence-based discipline.  

Who were the pioneers in developing this modern approach? How have testing processes and laboratory technology changed over time? And what can we learn from the last century of anatomic pathology to help us move the profession forward? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts Ms. Kelly Swails and Dr. Dan Milner are joined by Dr. Sanjay Mukhopadhyay, MD, Director of Pulmonary Pathology at the Cleveland Clinic and Associate Editor of the American Journal of Clinical Pathology, and Dr. William Schreiber, MD, MASCP, Professor in the Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine at the University of British Columbia and Clinical Director of Chemistry at LifeLabs, to discuss the history of pathology and laboratory medicine. 

Our panelists explain who and what inspired the marked increase in scientific rigor in our profession and explore how the role of the pathologist has changed over time. They speak to how instrumentation has evolved since 1922, describing the diversity of technology in the lab today and the many iterations of molecular testing in surgical pathology and the clinical lab. Listen in for  insight on promoting diversity of thought in pathology and laboratory medicine and get their predictions around the disruptive innovation coming to anatomic pathology in the next 100 years.

Topics Covered  
· Pioneers in developing modern anatomic pathology’s standardized, evidence-based approach
· How immunohistochemistry and molecular pathology led to a marked increase in scientific rigor in laboratory medicine
· How the role of the pathologist has changed over time to be directly involved in patient care decisions 
· How instrumentation has changed in the clinical lab over the last 100 years 
· The diversity of technology in the laboratory today and how automation benefits patients
· The evolution of molecular testing in surgical pathology and laboratory medicine and how it’s impacted microbiology, genetics and cancer diagnoses
· How molecular testing has evolved from conventional cytogenetics to FISH testing to PCR testing (and now to next-generation sequencing)
· Where the laboratory has been ahead of the curve on diversity and where we have room for improvement
· Dr. Mukhopadhyay’s and Dr. Schreiber’s predictions around AI and non-invasive diagnostics in future of pathology and laboratory medicine
· Transformative vs. disruptive innovation and why anatomic pathology is ripe for disruption 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Mukhopadhyay
Dr. Mukhopadhyay on Twitter
Dr. Mukhopadhyay on LinkedIn 

Connect with Dr. Schreiber
Dr. Schreiber at the University of British Columbia
Dr. Schreiber at LifeLabs 

Connect with Ms. Swails & Dr. Milner
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Dr. Milner on Twitter

Resources 
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep17: Anatomy of a Cyberattack10 May 202200:44:57

In October 2020, the University of Vermont Medical (UVM) Center fell victim to a cyberattack, and the leadership team intentionally shut down their system to prevent patient information from escaping the network. 

UVM Health was offline for 25 days. 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts, Ms. Kelly Swails and Mr. Mark Moen, are joined by Dr. Toby Cornish, MD, PhD, Associate Professor and Vice Chair of Pathology Informatics at the University of Colorado and Associate Editor for Informatics for AJCP; Dr. Andrew Goodwin, MD, FCAP, Medical Director for the Hemostasis and Thrombosis Laboratory and Vice Chair for Quality and Clinical Affairs; Dr. Christi Wojewoda, MD, FCAP, Clinical Microbiology Laboratory Director and Vice Chair for Education in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine; and Dr. Anne Stowman, MD, Dermatopathologist and Director of Surgical Pathology Operations, to discuss the ransomware attack.  

Our panelists explain when they realized there was a significant issue with their system and what radical workflow changes they initiated to deal with being offline for 25 days. They describe the challenges particular to different departments at UVM and what their teams did to overcome them. Listen in to learn what YOU can do to prepare for a potential ransomware attack in your lab. 

Topics Covered
· When UVM realized there was a significant problem with their system and the leadership team’s initial response
· Why the cyberattack only affected UVM’s primary medical center and not its entire health network
· The radical workflow changes UVM labs instituted during downtime and the support they received from other departments
· What the UVM labs did to reduce the volume of specimens coming into the lab
· The challenge UVM pathologists and laboratory professionals faced in delivering test results manually
· How the experience in the clinical lab differed from that of the anatomic pathology department
· The particular challenges faced in the microbiology and transfusion medicine labs at UVM during downtime
· What alternative technologies the UVM labs leveraged to continue operating during downtime
· Advice to pathologists and lab professionals on preparing for a cyberattack

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Twitter
Connect with Dr. Cornish
Dr. Cornish on Twitter
Dr. Cornish on LinkedIn
Connect with Dr. Goodwin
Dr. Goodwin at the University of Vermont 
Connect with Dr. Wojewoda
Dr. Wojewoda on Twitter
Dr. Wojewoda on LinkedIn
Connect with Dr. Stowman
Dr. Stowman on LinkedIn
Connect with Ms. Swails & Mr. Moen
Ms. Swails on Twitter
Mr. Moen on LinkedIn

Resources
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

 

S2Ep16: Lab Week Through the Years 26 Apr 202200:48:10

National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week—often known as Lab Week—is a fun time to be a pathologist or laboratory professional and celebrate our role on the medical team. But Lab Week can be more than just potluck dinners and lab-themed games. It’s an opportunity to learn from our colleagues, lift each other up and let our communities know what we do for patients.  So, how has Lab Week changed through the years? And how can we make the most of Lab Week moving forward?  

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts Dr. Lotte Mulder and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Ms. Stephanie Whitehead, MPH, MBA, CLS(ASCP)CM, Executive Director of Pathology and Laboratory Services at University Health in San Antonio, Texas, and Dr. Rodney Rohde, PhD, SM(ASCP)CM, SVCM, MBCM, Clinical Lab Science Program Chair at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, to discuss the evolution of Lab Week.   

Ms. Whitehead and Dr. Rohde explain what Lab Week looked like early on in their careers and how it's celebrated in their respective workplaces today. They describe how they maintained the spirit of Lab Week during the pandemic, sharing some of the virtual activities they designed to adapt to the circumstances and celebrate safely. Listen in for insight on leveraging Lab Week as an opportunity to strengthen relationships among laboratory professionals, engage in continuing education and advocate for the profession in our communities.  

Topics Covered  

  • What Lab Week looked like early on in Ms. Whitehead and Dr. Rohde’s careers and how the celebration has evolved over time 
  • Ms. Whitehead's efforts to incorporate elements of professional development and make Lab Week more inclusive 
  • Dr. Rohde's insight on leveraging Lab Week as an opportunity to advocate for the profession 
  • How Ms. Whitehead and Dr. Rohde’s departments maintained the spirit of Lab Week during the pandemic and what they did to adapt and celebrate safely 
  • Examples of the innovative activities Ms. Whitehead and Dr. Rohde are doing for Lab Week this year, i.e.: virtual games, 'gross lunch' and Lab Olympics 
  • Why it's crucial to recognize laboratory professionals during Lab Week and throughout the year  

Connect with ASCP 
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook 
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter   

Connect with Ms. Whitehead 
Ms. Whitehead on LinkedIn   

Connect with Dr. Rohde
Dr. Rohde at Texas State 
Dr. Rohde on LinkedIn  

Connect with Dr. Mulder & Ms. Swails
Dr. Mulder on Twitter 
Ms. Swails on Twitter  

Resources  
ASCP Photo & Video Contest
ASCP Ambassador Programs
ASCP Workforce Steering Committee
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store  

Advances in I-O Biomarkers07 Nov 202400:52:57

While the rapid evolution of I-O continues to bring unprecedented change to the way cancer is treated, there are significant gaps impacting the laboratory team regarding the examination of resection specimens following neoadjuvant immunotherapy and staying abreast of advances in I-O biomarker testing. 

This episode discusses advances in I-O biomarker testing, advantages and limitations of some key I-O biomarkers, and practical ways that pathologists and laboratory professionals can improve their I-O biomarker testing workflows to optimize patient care. 

Topics discussed include: 

  • Recent advances in immune-oncology (I-O) biomarker testing 
  • Advantages and limitations of IO biomarkers 
  • Addressing challenges related to IO biomarkers 
  • Improving IO biomarker workflows 
  • Best practices for collaboration with the multidisciplinary cancer care team 
S2Ep15: Life Hacks for Clinical Pathology 29 Mar 202200:47:44

One important challenge that ASCP is taking on is the notion of visibility of the laboratory.  What do successful clinical pathology lab directors do to bring the laboratory ‘out of the basement’ and advocate for the profession with colleagues, hospital leadership and the public at large? And what skills do they lean on to manage their labs successfully and achieve a healthy work-life balance? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts Dr. Dan Milner and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Dr. Sarah Riley, PhD, DABCC, FACB, Clinical Chemist, Toxicologist, and Director of the Forensic Toxicology Laboratory at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Dr. Ramy Arnaout, MD, PhD, Clinical Microbiologist, Clinical Informaticist, Computational Immunologist, and Associate Director of Clinical Microbiology Laboratories at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Dr. Nicole Pecora, MD, PhD, Medical Microbiologist and Associate Director of Clinical Microbiology at Brigham and Women's Hospital, who share their life hacks for clinical pathology. 

Our panelists discuss what we can do to increase the visibility of the CP laboratory. They address the informatics and business skills that aren’t emphasized enough in clinical pathology training and explain how they engage with colleagues to manage their respective labs successfully. Listen in for
insight on setting boundaries based on what’s really important to you to achieve work-life balance. 

Topics Covered 
· How to increase the visibility of the clinical pathology lab with colleagues, hospital administrators and the general public
· Our panelists’ thoughts on diagnostic management teams and the benefits to the clinical team of going on rounds  
· Why networking is essential to becoming a ‘member of the community’ as clinical pathologists
· How forming communities of practice and developing an elevator speech can help us get a ‘seat at the table’
· Why every clinical pathologist needs to be an ambassador for the profession and how to advocate for CP with hospital leadership
· The informatics and business skills that aren’t emphasized enough in clinical pathology training
· Insight on achieving work-life balance by separating your personal and professional life

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Riley
Dr. Riley at Saint Louis University
Dr. Riley on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Arnaout
Dr. Arnaout at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Dr. Arnaout on LinkedIn 

Connect with Dr. Pecora
Dr. Pecora at Brigham and Women's Hospital
Dr. Pecora on LinkedIn 

Connect with Dr. Milner & Ms. Swails
Dr. Milner on Twitter
Ms. Swails on Twitter 

Resources
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep14: Empowering Women in the Laboratory Workforce15 Mar 202200:54:28

ASCP was the first medical professional organization to elect a woman as president when Dr. Emma Moss earned the title in 1955. And while women continue to make strides in the field of pathology and laboratory medicine, there is still much to be done. 

So, what can we do to promote gender equality in the laboratory workforce? How can we create more opportunities for women to ascend from the bench to positions of leadership? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts Dr. Lotte Mulder and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Dr. Kimberly Sanford, MD, MASCP, MT(ASCP), Medical Director of Transfusion Medicine and Director of Undergraduate Medical Education in the Department of Pathology at Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Nidia Messias, MD, Renal Pathologist and Associate Professor of Pathology and Immunology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and Ms. Tiffany Channer, MPH, MLS(ASCP)CM, Assistant Administrative Laboratory Director and Quality Manager at a local community hospital in Westchester County, New York, to discuss the contributions of women in pathology and laboratory medicine. 

Our panelists describe some of the myths surrounding women in pathology and laboratory medicine and explain how to improve work conditions for women in the lab. They share what inspired them to enter the field and how the landscape of laboratory medicine has changed for women and other minority groups since they entered the workforce. Listen in for advice for women entering the field today and learn about the role mentorship plays in helping women rise through the ranks in pathology and laboratory medicine. 

Topics Covered
· Notable contributions women like Dr. Renee Habib, Dr. Sophie Spitz, and Dr. Vivian Pinn have made to the field of pathology and laboratory medicine
· Why women need both mentorship and sponsorship to rise through the ranks of the laboratory
· Myths surrounding women in pathology and laboratory medicine
· How to improve working conditions for women in the laboratory and promote women’s empowerment in field of pathology and lab medicine
· Our panelists’ hopes for the next 100 years in pathology and laboratory medicine 
· Advice to women entering the field of pathology and laboratory medicine today 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter

Connect with Dr. Sanford
Dr. Sanford on Twitter
Dr. Sanford at VCU

Connect with Dr. Messias
Dr. Messias on Twitter
Dr. Messias at Washington University  

Connect with Ms. Channer
Ms. Channer on LinkedIn 

Connect with Dr. Mulder & Ms. Swails
Dr. Mulder on Twitter
Ms. Swails on Twitter 

Resources
Dr. Emma Sadler Moss
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep13: Promoting DEI in Laboratory Medicine08 Mar 202200:54:23

In the 100 years since ASCP was founded, our mission has always centered on taking care of patients. As long as there are disparities in the healthcare system, we cannot fully realize that ambition. So, what is ASCP’s vision around diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I)? What steps can we take to promote DE&I in the field of pathology and laboratory medicine? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts Dr. Lotte Mulder and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Dr. Melissa Upton, MD, FASCP, Emeritus Professor of Pathology at the University of Washington in Seattle and Chair of the ASCP Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, Ms. Tanya Norwood, MBA, MS, Chief Officer for Marketing and Membership and Chief Officer for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at ASCP, and Mr. Mohamed Abdelmonem, MBA-HCM, CLS, H(ASCP)CMBBCM,  MLSiCM, SBBiCM, Clinical Laboratory Supervisor of Transfusion Services at Stanford University School of Medicine and member of ASCP’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, to discuss ASCP’s vision around diversity, equity and inclusion. 

Our panelists explain why DE&I is so important in pathology and laboratory medicine. They walk us through the four pillars of ASCP’s DE&I strategy and offer examples of the most effective workplace inclusion initiatives at their respective institutions. Listen in for insight on the DE&I tools available to ASCP members and learn how you can promote diversity, equity and inclusion in your laboratory and community. 

Topics Covered 
· Why diversity, equity, and inclusion are important in pathology and laboratory medicine in general and at ASCP in particular
· ASCP’s strategic vision around diversity, equity, and inclusion
· The four  pillars of ASCP’s DE&I strategy (awareness, mentorship, education, and partnerships)
·  How ASCP’s internal DE&I strategy for staff involves the discovery of where we are today and the change we want to see tomorrow
·  Examples of effective workplace inclusion initiatives
·  How to overcome intrinsic bias in the interview process
·  Tools available to help ASCP members promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in their workplaces and communities 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Upton
Dr. Upton at the University of Washington
Dr. Upton on Twitter

Connect with Ms. Norwood
Ms. Norwood on LinkedIn
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at ASCP 

Connect with Mr. Abdelmonem
Mr. Abdelmonem on LinkedIn
Mr. Abdelmonem on ResearchGate 

Connect with Dr. Mulder & Ms. Swails
Dr. Mulder on Twitter
Ms. Swails on Twitter 

Resources
ASCP’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiative
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

Special Episode: HER2 Testing in Breast Cancer: Improving IHC Performance28 Feb 202200:53:50

This podcast will help pathologists gain deeper skills in improving HER2 IHC testing in patients with breast cancer. and includes the following topics:

  • Optimizing IHC scoring across the HER2 spectrum in patients with breast cancer
  • Guidelines for conducting IHC and ISH testing of HER2 in patients with breast cancer
  • Application through cases of patients with breast cancer along the lower spectrum of HER2 expression
  • Suggestions for effective coordination and collaboration among pathologists, oncologists, and other key members of the cancer care team

The activity offers 0.75 CME/CMLE credit.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this activity, you should be able to:

  • Appropriately score HER2 levels via immunohistochemistry (IHC) in routine and complex breast cancer cases in accordance with guidelines
  • Describe the factors that may affect IHC performance across the HER2 spectrum
  • Utilize in situ hybridization (ISH) testing in breast cancer cases when appropriate in accordance with guidelines
  • Discuss ways to prepare laboratories and cancer centers for HER2-low breast cancer identification, tracking, and reporting

Faculty:

Aysegul A Sahin, MD
Director of Educational Operations
Department of Pathology, Division of Pathology/Lab Medicine
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Houston, TX

Ali Brown, MD, FASCP
Chief Officer, Medical Quality
American Society for Clinical Pathology
Washington, DC

Erin Downs-Kelly, DO
Director, Breast Pathology
Cleveland Clinic
Cleveland, OH

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education (CME) for physicians.

Credit Designation Statement
The ASCP designates this enduring material for a maximum of 0.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

ASCP designates this enduring material for a maximum of 0.75 CMLE credit. This activity meets CMP and state re-licensure requirements for laboratory personnel.

For questions regarding CME credit, please contact ASCP Customer Service at 1-800-267-2727, during normal business hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time

Method of Participation
To complete the activity and receive credit, the participant must complete the online course. CME certificates will be provided on-line.

Provided by the American Society for Clinical Pathology in partnership with Q-Synthesis, LLC and Clinical Care Options, LLC.

Funded by independent educational grants from AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals and Daiichi Sankyo, Inc.

Special Episode: The Science of HER2-low Breast Cancer and Implications for the Pathology Team28 Feb 202200:48:24

This 45-minute podcast is the first of two designed to help pathologists understand the latest evidence regarding HER2-low breast cancer, HER2 testing guidelines, the implications for the pathology team as HER2-low therapies emerge, and ways to streamline communications with oncologists and other members of the cancer care team. The podcast features authentic patient cases, scenarios, and discussion of digital slide images to engage learners.

This first podcast will help pathologists understand the science and emerging evidence around HER2-low breast cancer, as well as changes to practice that will be necessary in preparation for anticipated approvals of HER2-low breast cancer therapies and includes the following topics:

  • Science and emerging evidence around HER2-low breast cancer
  • Considerations for laboratories and cancer centers related to the potential approval of HER2-low therapies (eg, the need to document HER2 IHC and ISH status, enhanced communication with oncologists and other members of the cancer care team)
  • Application through cases of patients with breast cancer along the lower spectrum of HER2 expression
  • Suggestions for effective coordination and collaboration among pathologists, oncologists, and other key members of the cancer care team

The activity offers 0.75 CME/CMLE credit.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this activity, you should be able to:

Describe the science and emerging evidence around the diagnosis and treatment of HER2-low breast cancer
Discuss potential updates to laboratory processes and procedures to prepare for the anticipated emergence of HER2-low as a diagnostic category of breast cancer
Apply principles of leadership to engage and inform members of the cancer care team about ongoing research around HER2-low breast cancer
Outline ways to improve communication and coordination among pathologists, oncologists, and other members of the cancer care team when discussing HER2 test results in patients with breast cancer

Faculty:

Aysegul A Sahin, MD
Director of Educational Operations
Department of Pathology, Division of Pathology/Lab Medicine
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Houston, TX

Ali Brown, MD, FASCP
Chief Officer, Medical Quality
American Society for Clinical Pathology
Washington, DC

Erin Downs-Kelly, DO
Director, Breast Pathology
Cleveland Clinic
Cleveland, OH

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education (CME) for physicians.

Credit Designation Statement
The ASCP designates this enduring material for a maximum of 0.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

ASCP designates this enduring material for a maximum of 0.75 CMLE credit. This activity meet CMP and state re-licensure requirements for laboratory personnel.

For questions regarding CME credit, please contact ASCP Customer Service at 1-800-267-2727, during normal business hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time

Method of Participation
To complete the activity and receive credit, the participant must complete the online course. CME certificates will be provided on-line.

Provided by the American Society for Clinical Pathology in partnership with Q-Synthesis, LLC and Clinical Care Options, LLC.

Funded by independent educational grants from AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals and Daiichi Sankyo, Inc.

Special Episode: Ki67 as a Prognostic and Predictive Biomarker in HR-Positive/HER2-Negative Early Breast Cancer28 Feb 202200:44:46

This 45-minute podcast features the expertise of a pathologist and an oncologist highlighting important and practice-changing developments related to the use of Ki67 biomarker testing in patients with HR-positive/HER2-negative early breast cancer, such as new clinical data with immediate implications for patient care. Case-based, and with expert perspectives and recommendations, this podcast addresses key educational gaps and controversies related to optimal Ki67 biomarker testing methods, including challenges with standardization, interpreting findings, and potential therapeutic implications for patients with HR-positive/HER2-negative early breast cancer to optimize clinical outcomes.

Topics covered include:

  • Analytical validity of Ki67 as a diagnostic assay, application of results in clinical practice, and relevance to therapy
  • Current and emerging therapies for HR-positive/HER2-negative early-stage breast cancer
  • current standardized methodologies for Ki67 quantification
  • Optimizing workflows and communications with the multidisciplinary team

The activity offers 0.75 CME/CMLE credit.

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education (CME) for physicians.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this activity, you should be able to:

  • Incorporate the evidence on the current use of Ki67 as a predictive and prognostic biomarker into clinical practice
  • Evaluate the clinical validity, utility, and differences among Ki67 assessment techniques
  • Integrate best practices for Ki67 testing methodology, standardization, and reporting
  • Identify patients with high-risk features who may benefit from the addition of CDK4/6 inhibitor therapy to endocrine therapy in the adjuvant setting
  • Foster collaborative discussions and workflows between oncologists, pathologists and the multidisciplinary team on recent clinical evidence to guide personalized treatment planning for HR-positive/HER2-negative early breast cancer
  • Identify patients with HR-positive/HER2-negative early breast cancer that expresses Ki67 who may be eligible for ongoing clinical trials

Faculty:
 
Sunil S. Badve, MD, FRCPath
Vice Chair, Pathology Cancer Programs, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Emory University School of Medicine
Atlanta, GA
 
Manali Bhave, MD
Assistant Professor, Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology
Emory University School of Medicine
Atlanta, GA

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education (CME) for physicians.

Credit Designation Statement

The ASCP designates this internet activity for a maximum of 0.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

ASCP designates this internet activity for a maximum of 0.75 CMLE credit. This activity meets CMP and state re-licensure requirements for laboratory personnel.

For questions regarding CME credit, please contact ASCP Customer Service at 1-800-267-2727, during normal business hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time

Method of Participation

To complete the activity and receive credit, the participant must complete the online course. CME certificates will be provided online.

Provided by the American Society for Clinical Pathology in partnership with Clinical Care Options, LLC

This activity is supported by an educational grant from Lilly.

S2Ep12: Lifehacks for Anatomic Pathology 15 Feb 202200:46:10

Life hacks are tricks or shortcuts that make life easier and more efficient, like storing the roll of garbage bags at the bottom of your trash bin so the next bag is right there when you take out the trash.

In the world of anatomic pathology, tissue and organ samples run through multiple processes to render a diagnosis, it’s especially important that to stay organized and efficient. 

So, what life hacks can pathologists and medical laboratory scientists leverage to make our life in the anatomic pathology lab easier? What can  be more productive and precise? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts Dr. Dan Milner and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Dr. Sarah Garner, PhD, MS, PA(ASCP), Director of the Pathologists’ Assistant Program at Tulane University, Ms. Michelle Bell, HT(ASCP)CM, Applications Manager at Milestone Medical and 20-year veteran of laboratory management, and Dr. Jerad Gardner, MD, Dermatopathologist and Bone/Soft Tissue Pathologist at Geisinger Medical Labs, to share their best life hacks for anatomic pathology. 

Our panelists discuss their most effective workflow strategies, and describe how they optimize their time at the microscope to produce accurate results. They weigh in on the best ways to manage people and walk us through their top hacks for ensuring positive, active communication with clinical partners and colleagues. Listen in for best time management hacks and learn how they set priorities in their personal and professional lives. 

Topics Covered 
· Top technical and workflow hacks for anatomic pathology
· Maintaining order in the absence of a barcoding system
· Developing  a culture of appreciation in the anatomic pathology lab
· Why time management is a challenge in the anatomic pathology lab
· Strategies for optimizing time at the microscope and producing valuable results
· Best practices for ensuring positive, active communication with clinical partners and colleagues inside and outside your institution
· How our panelists navigate impromptu testing requests from clinicians
· Dr. Garner, Ms. Bell, and Dr. Gardner’s advice on achieving work-life balance

 Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter

Connect with Dr. Garner
Dr. Garner on Twitter
Dr. Garner at Tulane 

Connect with Ms. Bell
Milestone Medical
Ms. Bell on LinkedIn  

Connect with Dr. Gardner
Dr. Gardner on Twitter 
Dr. Gardner at Geisinger

Connect with Dr. Milner & Ms. Swails
Dr. Milner on Twitter
Ms. Swails on Twitter 

Resources  

Daniel Pink’s WHEN on Inside the Lab S2EP11
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep11: WHEN: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing01 Feb 202200:53:19

Do you do your best work in the morning? Or does your energy peak at night?  

What if you could schedule your day around your circadian rhythms so the task type and timing align? How might laboratory professionals leverage these hidden patterns of the day to maximize efficiency and make better decisions? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts Dr. Lotte Mulder and Dr. Dan Milner are joined by Dr. Rina Kansal, MD, former Medical Director of Diagnostic Molecular Pathology at Penn State Health and Associate Medical Director at the Blood Center of Wisconsin, Ms. Jeannie Guglielmo, MS, MAT, MLS(ASCP)CM, Chair of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Clinical Associate Professor in the School of Health Professions at Stony Brook University, and Ms. Stacey Robinson, MS. MLS(ASCP)SH, SCYM, who serves as the supervisor of the Clinical Microscopy section in her medical center's laboratory to discuss Daniel Pink’s book, WHEN: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing

Our panelists share what surprised them about the invisible power of timing and offer insight into what larks, owls, and third birds can do to perform through their trough periods. They review Pink’s five principles of breaks, exploring how microbreaks make our work more productive. Listen in for insight on using biorhythms to assign shifts in the lab and get their advice on making good decisions when the timing is not optimal.  

Topics Covered 
· Maximizing efficiency by understanding our circadian rhythms
· What surprised our panelists regarding the invisible power of timing and how much language shapes our behavior
· The five guiding principles of breaks
· What larks, owls, and third birds can do to perform through their tough periods
· The potential connection between introversion vs. extroversion and larks vs. owls
· How our panelists’ experiences align with Pink’s workflow model for group projects
· How our panelists use their team’s biorhythms to schedule projects and assign shifts in the lab

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Kansal
Dr. Kansal on ResearchGate

Connect with Ms. Guglielmo
Ms. Guglielmo on LinkedIn
Ms. Guglielmo at Stony Brook   

Connect with Ms. Robinson
Ms. Robinson on LinkedIn 

Connect with Dr. Mulder & Dr. Milner
Dr. Mulder on Twitter
Dr. Milner on Twitter  

Resources
WHEN: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing by Daniel H. Pink
ASCP Leadership Institute
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep10: Wellness Initiatives That Work18 Jan 202200:53:54

Organizational wellness is getting more attention , due in no small part to the increased stress brought on by a global pandemic.  

But why do we only seem to think about wellness when we feel unwell? What does wellness look like for pathologists and laboratory professionals? And what responsibility do institutions and individuals have in making wellness a priority? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts Dr. Lotte Mulder and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Dr. Alae Kawam, MD, Pathology Resident and soon-to-be Surgical Pathology Fellow at Northwell University, Dr. Katrina Krogh, MD, Surgical Pathologist specializing in Gastrointestinal and Liver Pathology in private practice in Los Angeles, and Dr. Farres Obeidin, MD, Assistant Professor and Clinical Attending at Northwestern University and Bone and Soft Tissue Pathologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, to discuss organizational wellness. 

Our panelists describe the physical, spiritual, social, and emotional aspects of wellness, exploring how the term means different things to different people. They explain what initiatives institutions are using to combat rising rates of physician burnout and why they’ve fallen short, reflecting on how wellness policy informs institutional culture and vice versa. Listen in for insight on how wellness impacts the quality of work we do in the lab and learn how to advocate for your individual wellness at work.  

Topics Covered 

· Defining ‘wellness’ in general and what it means to the laboratory workforce
· The physical, spiritual, social, and emotional aspects of wellness
· How wellness policy informs institutional culture and vice versa
· Sources of burnout in the laboratory and what institutions might do to help mitigate the stress that cause them 
· The initiatives institutions are using to combat rising rates of physician burnout (and why they’ve fallen short)
· Why it’s crucial for leaders to support laboratory and other medical professionals when we reach our limits
· How our wellness impacts the quality of work we do in the lab
· How pathologists and lab professionals can advocate for our wellness in the workplace when it’s so individualized
· How diversity, equity, and inclusion influences wellness at work
· Our panelists’ insight on the benefit of a four-day workweek and other alternate scheduling models  

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Kawam
Dr. Kawam on LinkedIn 

Connect with Dr. Krogh
Dr. Krogh on Twitter
Dr. Krogh on LinkedIn

Connect with Dr. Obeidin
Dr. Obeidin on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Mulder & Ms. Swails
Dr. Mulder on Twitter
Ms. Swails on Twitter  

Resources
Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski, PhD, and Amelia Nagoski, DMA
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep9: Voices from the ASCP 2021 Annual Meeting 14 Dec 202100:23:51

What would ASCP members like to see happen in the next five to ten years that would most impact our lives and work as laboratory professionals?  

And what can ASCP do as an organization to elevate laboratory medicine as a profession and address the greatest challenges we face?  

On this episode of Inside the Lab, Dr. Dan Milner sits down with attendees of the ASCP 2021 Annual Meeting to explore what ASCP can do to advocate for higher wages and increase the visibility of medical lab professionals.  

They share what they love about working in the medical laboratory, describing the vital role we play in delivering patient care.  

Listen in for ASCP member insight on burnout among lab professionals during the pandemic and learn what we can do to stay healthy, positive and empowered to pursue a balanced life. 

Topics Covered  

- What ASCP members would like to see happen in the next 5 to 10 years that would most impact the lives and work of laboratory professionals
- What ASCP can do to foster interprofessional relationships and communication among laboratory professionals 
- ASCP’s advocacy programs and initiatives to address issues of workforce vacancies and wages 
- How ASCP might increase the visibility of medical laboratory professionals 
- What ASCP members love about working in the medical laboratory
- How more than 70% of medical decisions are based on data generated by lab professionals
- How the pandemic exacerbated challenges around burnout and personal wellness among laboratory professionals 
- What lab professionals can do to stay healthy, positive and in control of a balanced life 
- What more ASCP could do to combat disinformation regarding COVID-19 

 Connect with ASCP  

ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter   

Connect with Dr. Milner  

Dr. Milner on Twitter  

Resources

ASCP’s Wage and Vacancy Survey
ASCP Career and Pathology Ambassadors
Society of Black Pathologists
ASCP Advocacy Center
ASCP ePolicy News
ASCP Foundation
ASCP COVID-19 Resources
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store  

Newly FDA Approved Alzheimer’s Biomarkers Testing: How to Implement Such Tests in Core Laboratory?21 Oct 202400:35:34

The diagnostic paradigm for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has rapidly shifted in the last five years as fluid-based biomarker testing has emerged as a reliable, accurate, and accessible means to detect amyloid pathology when evaluating a patient for cognitive decline. This podcast is designed to help pathologists and laboratory professionals gain an understanding of plasma testing for markers such as Abeta40/42, P-tau181, and P-tau217 which are rapidly appearing in the commercial space and how healthcare providers have begun incorporating these tests into routine neurology practice. This podcast will help participants to understand the advantages and limitations of these assays as well as their potential application when a physician is evaluating a patient for AD. 

S2Ep8: The Intersection of Wellness and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion30 Nov 202100:57:50

Wellness is multidimensional. In addition to our physical health, wellness encompasses our mental, social, emotional and even financial wellbeing. It’s no surprise that there’s a connection between the diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in an organization and the wellbeing of the laboratory professionals who work or train there. Programs that address the unique needs of every employee are integral in creating an equitable, inclusive workplace.  

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts Dr. Lotte Mulder and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Mrs. Dana Baker, MBA, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, Assistant Professor in the Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences at the University of Kansas Medical Center and advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion in healthcare and medical education, Dr. Melissa Upton, MD, FASCP, Emeritus Professor of Pathology at the University of Washington and Chair of the ASCP Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, and Dr. Darryl Elzie, PsyD, MHA, MT(ASCP), CQA(ASQ), Laboratory Quality Coordinator at Sentara Healthcare and Founding Member of the Sentara Norfolk General Hospital Executive DEI Council, to discuss the relationship between wellness and diversity, equity and inclusion efforts within an organization. 

Our panelists explain why wellness is an essential part of any program intended to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion and how lack of access to wellness services impacts marginalized communities. They explore how the definition of wellness varies by culture and community and share best practices for developing wellness programs that address these issues. Listen in for insight on leveraging data to sell DEI to the C-suite and learn what training programs and workplaces can do to encourage and support wellness and equity in the lab. 

Topics Covered 
·  Why wellness is an essential part of any program intended to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion
·  How healthcare disparities and lack of access to wellness services impact marginalized communities
·  Best practices for developing wellness programs in our workplaces and communities
·  How to create safe spaces dedicated to addressing issues of personal wellness, diversity, equity, and inclusion in laboratory medicine
·  How we might leverage data to sell diversity, equity, and inclusion to the C-suite
·  What professional societies like ASCP can do to help members build healthy working lives 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Mrs. Baker
Mrs. Baker on Twitter  

Connect with Dr. Upton
Dr. Upton on Twitter

Connect with Dr. Elzie
Dr. Elzie on LinkedIn

Connect with Dr. Mulder & Ms. Swails
Dr. Mulder on Twitter
Ms. Swails on Twitter 

Resources
ASCP 2021 Annual Meeting
ASCP Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Opportunities
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 


S2Ep7:Erasing Institutional Bias (Leadership Institute Book Club)16 Nov 202100:46:10

Every human has bias, as do the organizations we build. Despite commitments to diversity and inclusion, institutional bias lives on in every industry.  How does institutional bias show up in the field of pathology and laboratory medicine? And what can we do to affect change? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, Dr. Dan Milner and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Ms. Tywauna Wilson, MBA, MLS(ASCP)CM, System Technical Director of Chemistry for CompuNet Clinical Laboratories and Founder of Trendy Elite Coaching and Consulting, Dr. Von Samedi, MD, PhD, Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, and Dr. Mohamed Abdelmonem, DHA, MBA-HCM, MS, CLS, MLS(ASCP)SBB, Blood Bank and Transfusion Service Supervisor at Stanford Health Care, to discuss the book Erasing Institutional Bias: How to Create Systemic Change for Organizational Inclusion by Tiffany Jana and Ashley Diaz Mejias.  

Our panelists share what they realized about recruiting, hiring, and advancement bias in their organizations (and the role they play in sustaining it) from reading the book. They explore how occupational bias presents in the field of pathology and laboratory medicine and what we can do to advocate for ourselves. Listen in for insight on recruiting allies without being perceived as a troublemaker and find out how you can take steps to erase institutional bias—whether or not you’re in a leadership role.  

Topics Covered
· An overview of the themes in Erasing Institutional Bias around how bias gets embedded in workplace cultures and what we can do to eliminate it 
· What our panelists realized about recruiting, hiring and advancement bias in their organizations from reading the book (and the role they play in sustaining it)
· How occupational bias shows up in the field of pathology and laboratory medicine
· How laboratory professionals and pathologists can work toward erasing institutional bias in our organizations
· Conducting a holistic review of residency applications and adopting a blind hiring process
· How realistic it is for us to succeed in erasing institutional bias without being in a leadership role 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Ms. Wilson
Ms. Wilson on Twitter
Ms. Wilson on LinkedIn

Connect with Dr. Samedi
Dr. Samedi on Twitter
Dr. Samedi on LinkedIn

Connect with Dr. Abdelmonem
Dr. Abdelmonem on ResearchGate 

Connect with Dr. Milner & Ms. Swails  
Dr. Milner on Twitter
Ms. Swails on Twitter 

Resources
Erasing Institutional Bias: How to Create Systemic Change for Organizational Inclusion
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2E6: Antimicrobial Resistance--the Next Global Pandemic? 02 Nov 202100:48:12

The World Health Organization cites antimicrobial resistance, or AMR, as one of the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity. And according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 2.8 million people in the U.S. contract an antibiotic-resistant infection every year—and more than 35,000 die. What do laboratory professionals need to know about the emerging data around antimicrobial resistance? And what can we do in the lab to support infection prevention and control? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts Dr. Lotte Mulder and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Dr. Patricia Simner, PhD, D(ABMM), Associate Professor of Pathology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Director of the Medical Bacteriology and Infectious Disease Sequencing Laboratories at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Dr. Romney Humphries, PhD, D(ABMM), M(ASCP), Medical Director of Microbiology and Director of Infectious Disease Laboratories at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and Dr. Lynn Bry, MD, PhD, Medical Director of Clinical Microbiology and Molecular Pathology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Director of the Massachusetts Host-Microbiome Center at Harvard Medical School, to discuss antimicrobial resistance. 

Our panelists discuss the current fears surrounding emerging antibiotic resistance in the U.S. and explain how AMR is changing the way we practice medicine. They explore what lab professionals can do to navigate the workflow challenges in microbiology caused by antimicrobial resistance and describe the most worrisome resistance signatures in the emerging data. Listen in for insight on how to participate in efforts to combat emerging resistance and prepare your lab for an encounter with multidrug-resistant organisms. 

Topics Covered  

· The biggest challenges around antimicrobial resistance facing the human population today 
· Current fears surrounding emerging antimicrobial resistance in the U.S.
· What laboratory professionals can do to navigate the workflow challenges in microbiology caused by AMR
· How labs can participate in regional, national, and global efforts to combat emerging resistance
· Hope for combating antimicrobial resistance 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Simner
Dr. Simner on Twitter
Dr. Simner at Johns Hopkins 

Connect with Dr. Humphies
Dr. Humphries on Twitter
Dr. Humphries at Vanderbilt 

Connect with Dr. Bry
 Dr. Bry on Twitter
Dr. Bry at Brigham and Women’s Hospital 

Connect with Dr. Mulder & Ms. Swails
Dr. Mulder on Twitter
Ms. Swails on Twitter 

Resources
CDC Info on Antibiotic Resistance
WHO Fact Sheet on Antimicrobial Resistance
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

S2Ep5: Consolidation and Total Laboratory Automation 12 Oct 202100:53:19

In general, consolidating several microbiology labs into one and automating our processes facilitates innovation and efficiency and creates a safer patient environment. But consolidation and total laboratory automation (TLA) also come with challenges. So, what do pathologists and laboratory professionals need to think about as we transition to centralized labs and implement TLA systems? 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our hosts Dr. Dan Milner and Ms. Kelly Swails are joined by Dr. Sarah Buss, PhD, D(ABMM), Microbiology Director for Northern Light Laboratory and Instructor for the Medical Laboratory Science Program at the University of Maine, Dr. Karissa Culbreath, PhD, Medical Director of Infectious Diseases at Tricore Reference Laboratories and Associate Professor of Pathology at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Dr. Mark Fisher, PhD, Medical Director of the Bacteriology, Antimicrobials, Parasitology and Infectious Disease Rapid Testing Laboratories at ARUP and Assistant Professor of Pathology at the University of Utah School of Medicine, and Dr. Erin McElvania, PhD, Director of Clinical Microbiology at NorthShore University Health System and Clinical Assistant Professor of Pathology at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, to discuss consolidation and total laboratory automation in the microbiology lab.  

Our panelists share the pros and cons of consolidation efforts in terms of patient safety and laboratory quality, explaining what they do to promote clinician interaction when the microbiology lab is centralized. They describe three popular TLA systems and weigh in on the personnel changes and contingency planning required when bringing automation to the microbiology lab. Listen in for insight on the benefits of decentralizing technology in consolidated systems and learn what innovative features are likely to be added to TLA platforms moving forward. 

Topics Covered 
·  What the term consolidation refers to in the laboratory and some examples of how multiple hospitals or health systems can be served by a single lab
·  The pros and cons of consolidation efforts in microbiology in terms of patient safety and laboratory quality
·  The factors that determine what tests remain at smaller community hospital labs 
·  How potential cost savings inform the decision to execute on consolidation
·  The importance of contingency planning in automated labs

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Dr. Buss
Dr. Buss at Northern Light Health
Dr. Buss on LinkedIn 

Connect with Dr. Culbreath
Dr. Culbreath on Twitter

Connect with Dr. Fisher
Dr. Fisher at ARUP

Connect with Dr. McElvania
Dr. McElvania on Twitter

Connect with Dr. Milner & Ms. Swails
Dr. Milner on Twitter
Ms. Swails on Twitter 

Resources
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store 

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