Principles of Medical Laboratory Science 1

Reviewer

Defining the Practice of the Medical Technology/Clinical Laboratory Science Profession

➢ Nature of Medical Technology
• Science
- primarily concerned with the study of the natural world and the interrelationship among the
biological, psychological, and even the social world
• Technology
- application of science in ways that are considered beneficial to society
- can be defined in three ways: first, as a physical artefact, machine, or instrument;
- second, as an activity or a means to accomplish a goal;
- third, as knowledge (Howell, 1996).
- Rogers (1983) asserts that "technology is a design for instrumental action that reduces the
uncertainty in the cause-effect relationships involved in achieving a desired outcome."
- consists of physical elements such as equipment, materials, or products, and intangible
elements, such as knowledge, skills, procedures, principles, or information base required to
successfully implement the technology
- an avenue for humans to alter or modify the environment in order to extend their abilities
to create, invent, discover, or innovate to make the world a better place to live in.

• Medical Technology
- designed to improve the detection, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of diseases.
- has linkages with many other disciplines for specific diagnostic or therapeutic purposes
(Evans et al., 2003).
- nature is contextual, interdisciplinary, interdependent, and systems-based.
- dependent on the application, purpose, environment, and setting in which it is applied.

• Clinical Laboratory testing

- plays a crucial role in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases

• Clinical Laboratory Scientists

- involved in the examination and analysis of body fluids, tissues, and cells.
- look for the presence of bacteria, parasites, and other microorganisms in the body
- analyze the chemical contents of fluids, match blood for transfusions, and test for
drug levels in the blood to show a patient's response to a specific treatment
- prepare specimens for examination, to count cells, and look for abnormal cells in
the blood and other body fluids.
- use microscopes, cell counters, and other sophisticated laboratory equipment.
- use automated equipment and computerized instruments capable of performing a
number of tests simultaneously
-
➢ Medical Technology Practice Defined
• Section 2 R.A 5527 (Philippine Medical Technology Act of 1969)
- where the medical technology profession and its practice is governed and defined
- implemented on, June 21, 1969

✓ Section 2. a. Practice of Medical Technology - A person shall be deemed to be in the practice

of medical technology within the meaning of this Act, who shall for a fee, salary or other compensation
or reward paid or given directly or indirectly through another, renders any of the following professional
services for the purpose of aiding the physician in the diagnosis, study and treatment of diseases and
in the promotion of health in general:

1. Examination of tissues, secretions and excretions of the human body and body fluids
by various electronic, chemical, microscopic, bacteriologic, hematologic, serologic,
immunologic, nuclear, and other laboratory procedures and techniques either manual
or automated;
2. Blood banking procedures and techniques;
3. Parasitologic, mycologic and microbiologic procedures and techniques;
4. Histopathologic and cytotechnology; provided that nothing in this paragraph shall
inhibit a duly registered medical laboratory technician from performing histopathologic
techniques and procedures;
5. Clinical research involving patients or human beings requiring the use of and/or
application of medical technology knowledge and procedures;
6. Preparations and standardization of reagents, standards, stains and others, provided
such reagents, standards, stains and others are exclusively for the use of their
laboratory;
7. Clinical laboratory quality control;
8. Collection and preservation of specimens;

Provided, that any person who has passed the corresponding board examination
(7for the practice of a profession already regulated by existing law, shall not be subject to
the provisions of the last four preceding paragraphs if the performance of such acts or
services is merely incidental to his profession (Section 2, a.).
➢ Roles and Responsibilities of Medical Technology Professionals
• Perform Clinical Laboratory Testing
• Perform Special Procedures
• Ensure Accuracy and Precision of Results
• Be Honest in Practice
• Ensure Timely Delivery of Results
• Demonstrate Professionalism
• Uphold Confidentiality
• Collaborate with Other Health Care Professionals
• Conduct Research
• Involvement in Health Promotion Programs

➢ Defining the Practice for Other Laboratory Personnel

• Pathologists
- as defined in R.A. 5527, a pathologist is a duly registered physician who is specially
trained in methods of laboratory medicine, or the gross and microscopic study and
interpretation of tissues, secretions and excretions of the human body and its functions in
order to diagnose disease, follow its course, determine the effectivity of treatment,
ascertain cause of death, and advance medicine by means of research (Section 2, b.).
- always considered to head a clinical laboratory and monitor all laboratory results. A
laboratory result without the signature of a pathologist may not be considered valid.

• Medical Laboratory Technicians

- as defined in R.A. 5527, a medical laboratory technician is a person certified by and
registered with the Board of Medical Technology and qualified to assist a medical
technologist and/or qualified pathologist in the practice of medical technology as defined
in the aforementioned act (Section 2, d.).
Certain qualifications other than what is stated above to become a medical
technician provided that he or she satisfies the qualifications such that he or she:
▪ Failed to pass the medical technology licensure examination given by the Board of
Medical Technology but obtained a general rating of at least 70%
▪ Passed the civil service examination for medical technicians given on March 21,
1969; or
▪ Finished a two-year college course and has at least one (1) year experience of
working as a medical laboratory technician; provided that for every year of
experience in college, two (2) years of work experience may be substituted; and
provided further, that the applicant has at least ten (10) years of experience as
medical laboratory technician as of the date of approval of this decree.

• Phlebotomist
- an individual trained to draw blood either for laboratory tests or for blood donations.

• Cytotechnologist
- works with the pathologist to detect changes in body cells which may be important in
the early diagnosis of diseases. This is primarily done by examining microscopic slides of
body cells for abnormalities or anomalies in structures, indicating either benign or malignant
conditions.
- selects and sections minute particles of human tissue for microscopic study, using
microtomes and other equipment and employs stain techniques to make cell structures
visible or to differentiate its parts. The Papanicolaou (Pap) test and the H&E are the most
commonly employed staining techniques.

• Histotechnologist
- also referred to as histotechnican, laboratory personnel responsible for the routine
preparation, processing, and staining of biopsies and tissue specimens for microscopic
examination by a pathologist (Cardona, 2015).

• Nuclear Medical Technologist

- a health care professional who works alongside nuclear physicians. Nuclear medical
technologists apply their knowledge of radiation physics and safety regulations to limit
radiation exposure, prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals, and use radiation
detection devices and other kinds of laboratory equipment that measure the quantity and
distribution of radionuclides deposited in the patient or in the patient's specimen.

• Toxicologist
- studies the effects of toxic substances on the physiological functions of human beings,
animals, and plants to develop data for use in consumer protection and industrial safety
programs.
- designs and conducts studies to determine physiological effects of various substances on
laboratory animals, plants, and human tissue, using biological and biochemical techniques.
Medical Technology/Clinical Laboratory Science Education
➢ Definition of Curriculum
- comes from the Latin word currere which means to run. A student enrolled in a program has to
work hard and run with all his or her might in order to finish the race on time.

Curriculum can be defined in many ways. Some of these are as follows:

a. According to the Glossary of Educational Reforms, curriculum refers to the knowledge
and skills students are expected to learn, which include the learning standards or
learning objectives they are expected to meet; the units and lessons that teachers
teach; the assignments and projects given to students; the books, materials, videos,
presentations, and readings used in a course; and the tests, assessments, and other
methods used to evaluate student learning.
b. Curriculum refers to the means and materials with which students interact for the
purpose of achieving identified educational outcomes.
c. According to John Dewey, curriculum is the "continuous reconstruction, moving from
the child's present experience out into that represented by the organized bodies of
truth that we call studies... the various studies...are themselves experience-they are that
of the race."
d. According to the Indiana Department of Education, curriculum refers to the planned
interaction of students with instructional content, materials, resources, and processes
for evaluating the attainment of educational objectives.

Looking into these definitions (and others), curriculum:

a. is systematic and organized;
b. explicitly states outcomes (knowledge, skills) the learners/students have to achieve and
learn through the use of planned instructional processes and other learning implements
in a specific period:
c. consists of a planned process of measurement, assessment, and evaluation to gauge
student learning; and
d. is designed for students.

➢ Medical Technology Curriculum

• Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
- was established on May 18, 1994 through the passage of Republic Act No. 7722, the Higher
Education Act of 1992.
- the government agency under the Office of the President of the Philippines that covers
institutions of higher education both public and private. It is tasked to organize and appoint
members of the technical panel for each discipline/program area.
- Under CHED is the Technical Committee for Medical Technology Education (TCMTE) –
composed of leading academicians and practitioners responsible for assisting the Commission
in setting standards among institutions offering Bachelor of Science in Medical
Technology/Medical Laboratory Science program and in monitoring and evaluating such
institutions.

• BSMT/BSMLS
- considered one of the allied health programs (others, to name a few, are Nursing,
Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, among others.).
- is a four-year program consisting of general education and professional courses that students
are expected to complete in CHED-accredited training laboratories affiliated with their
college/department.

• General Education (GE) Courses

- offerings cut across different programs. These courses aim to develop foundational
knowledge, skills, values, and habits necessary for students to succeed in life, to positively
contribute to society, to understand the diversity of cultures, to gain a bigger perspective and
understanding of living with others, to respect differences in opinions, to realize and accept their
weaknesses and improve on them, and to further hone their strengths.
- aims to develop humane individuals that have a deeper sense of self and acceptance of others.
The general courses included in the new CMO are:
1. Understanding the Self
2. Readings in Philippine History
3. The Contemporary World
4. Mathematics in the Modern World
5. Purposive Communication
6. The Life and Works of Rizal
7. Science, Technology, and Society
8. Art Appreciation
9. Ethics
• Professional Courses
- taken for learners to develop the knowledge, technical competence, professional attitude,
and values necessary to practice and meet the demands of the profession.

Critical thinking skills, decision-making skills, interpersonal skills, collaboration, and

teamwork are also developed. Some of the professional courses are:
1. Principles of Medical Laboratory Science 1: Introduction to Medical Laboratory
Science, Laboratory Safety, and Waste Management
This course deals with the basic concepts and principles related to the
Medical Technology/Medical Laboratory Science profession. Its emphasis is on
the curriculum, practice of the profession, clinical laboratories, continuing
professional education, biosafety practices, and waste management.

2. Principles of Medical Laboratory Science 2: Clinical Laboratory Assistance and

Phlebotomy
Clinical Laboratory Assistance encompasses the concepts and
principles of the different assays performed in the clinical laboratory. Phlebotomy
deals with the basic concepts, principles, and application of the standard
procedures in blood collection, transport, and processing. It also involves the
study of pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic variables that affect reliability of
test results.

3. Community and Public Health for MT/MLS

This course involves the study of the foundations of community health
that include human ecology, demography, and epidemiology. It emphasizes the
promotion of community, public, and environmental health and the immersion and
interaction of students with people in the community.

4. Cytogenetics
This course is focused on the study of the concepts and principles of
heredity and inheritance which include genetic phenomena, sex
determination, and genetic defects rooted in inheritance, among others. It also
discusses the abnormalities and genetic disorders involving the chromosomes
and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA). Emphasis is given to the analysis of nucleic acids
and their application to medical science.

5. Human Histology
This course deals with the study of the fundamentals of cells, tissues,
and organs with emphasis on microscopic structures, characteristics,
differences, and functions. The laboratory component of this course primarily
deals with the microscopic identification and differentiation of cells that make up
the systems of the body.

6. Histopathologic Techniques with Cytology

This course covers the basic concepts and principles of disease
processes, etiology, and the development of anatomic, microscopic changes
brought about by the disease process. It deals with the histopathologic techniques
necessary for the preparation of tissue samples collected via surgery, biopsy,
and/or autopsy for macroscopic and microscopic examinations for diagnostic
purposes.
Some of the tests that students perform for the laboratory
component of the course in a school-based laboratory are:
a. Tissue processing
b. Cutting of processed tissue
c. Staining
d. Mounting of stained tissue for microscopic examination
e. Performing biosafety and waste management

7. Clinical Laboratory
This course deals with the study of the physiology and morphology of
bacteria and their role in infection and immunity. Its emphasis is on the collection
of specimens and the isolation and identification of bacteria. It also covers
antimicrobial susceptibility testing and development of resistance to antimicrobial
substances.
Some of the procedures and tests that students perform for the laboratory component of the
course in a school-based laboratory are:
a. Preparation of culture media f. Characterization of colonies of bacteria
b. Collection of specimens growing in culture media
c. Preparation of bacterial smear g. Performing different biochemical tests
d. Staining of smear for identification of bacteria
e. Inoculation of specimen on culture h. Biosafety and waste management
media i. Quality assurance and quality control
j. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing
 8. Clinical Parasitology
This course is concerned with the study of animal parasites in humans and
their medical significance in the country. Its emphasis is on the pathophysiology,
epidemiology, life cycle, prevention and control, and the identification of ova and/or
adult worms and other forms seen in specimens submitted for diagnostic purposes.
Some of the procedures and tests that students perform for the laboratory
component of the course in a school-based laboratory are:
a. Microscopic identification of diagnostic features of different groups of
parasites pathogenic to man (e.g., nematodes, trematodes, cestodes,
protozoa, plasmodium, among others)
b. Different methods of preparing smear for microscopic examination (e.g.,
direct fecal smear, Kato-Katz, among others)

9. Immunology and Blood Bank

This course tackles the concepts of inheritance, characterization, and laboratory
identification of red cells antigens and their corresponding antibodies. It also covers the
application of these antigens and/or antibodies in transfusion medicine and transfusion
reactions work-up.
Some of the procedures and tests that students perform for the laboratory
component of the course in a school-based laboratory are:
a. ABO and Rh typing
b. Coombs test (direct and indirect Coombs)
c. Blood donation process
d. Compatibility testing
e. Transfusion reaction work-up
f. Preparation of RBC suspension

10. Mycology and Virology

This course deals with the study of fungi and viruses as agents of diseases with
emphasis on epidemiology, laboratory identification and characterization, and
prevention and control.

11. Laboratory Management

This course looks into the concepts of laboratory management which are planning,
organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling as applied in clinical laboratory setting. It
also tackles the process of solving problems, quality assurance and quality control,
preparation of policy and procedure manuals, and other activities necessary to
maintain a well-functioning laboratory.

12. Medical Technology Law and Bioethics

This course encompasses various laws, administrative orders, and other approved
legal documents related to the practice of Medical Technology/Medical Laboratory Science
in the Philippines.
Bioethics looks into the study of ethics as applied to health and health care
delivery and to human life in general. Different bioethical principles, philosophical
principles, virtues and norms, and the Code of Ethics of medical technologists are also
discussed.

13. Hematology 1
This course deals with the study of the concepts of blood as a tissue. Formation,
metabolism of cells, laboratory assays, correlation with pathologic conditions, special
hematology evaluation are given emphasis. Quality assurance and quality control in
hematology laboratory as well as bone marrow studies are also discussed.
Some of the procedures and tests that students perform for the laboratory component of the
course in a school-based laboratory are:
a. Complete blood count (CBC) h. Erythrocyte indices
b. Hematocrit blood test i. Reticulocyte count
c. Platelet count j. Instrumentation
d. Preparation of blood smear k. Osmotic fragility test
and staining l. Quality assurance and quality
e. Red cell morphology control
f. Erythrocyte sedimentation m. Biosafety and waste
rate (ESR) management
g. Fragility test
14. Hematology 2
This course deals with the concepts and principles of hemostasis, and
abnormalities involving red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), and platelets.
Laboratory identification of blood cell abnormalities, quantitative measurement of
coagulation factors, and disease correlation are emphasized.
Some of the procedures and tests that students perform for the laboratory
component of the course in school-based laboratory are:
a. Identification of abnormal RBC and WBC
b. Special staining techniques

15. Clinical Microscopy

This course focuses on the study of urine and other body fluids (excluding
blood). It includes the discussion of their formation, laboratory analyses, disease processes,
and clinical correlation of laboratory results.
Some of the procedures and tests that students perform for the laboratory
component of the course in school-based laboratory are:
a. Routine urinalysis (macroscopic, microscopic, chemical examinations)
b. Special chemical examination of urine
c. Examination of other body fluids (seminal fluid, gastric juice, cerebrospinal
fluid)
d. Pregnancy tests
e. Chemical examination of stool specimens

16. Clinical Chemistry 1

This course encompasses the concepts and principles of physiologically active
soluble substances and waste materials present in body fluids, particularly in the blood.
The study includes formation, laboratory analyses, reference values and clinical correlation
with pathologic conditions. The course also looks into instrumentation and automation,
quality assurance, and quality control.
Some of the procedures and tests that students perform for the laboratory
component of the course in school-based laboratory are:
a. Instrumentation
b. Quality assurance and quality control
c. Glucose determination
d. Lipid testing (triglyceride, lipoproteins)
e. Renal function tests [blood urea nitrogen (BUN), blood uric acid (BUA),
creatinine]
f. Protein testing (total proteins, albumin, globulin)
g. Biosafety and waste management

17. Clinical Chemistry 2

This course is a continuation of Clinical Chemistry 1 and deals with the concepts
and principles of physiologically active soluble substances and waste materials present
in body fluids, particularly in the blood. It also covers the study of endocrine glands and
hormones and their formation, laboratory analyses, and clinical correlation. Therapeutic
drug monitoring and laboratory analyses of drugs and substances of abuse as well as toxic
substances are also emphasized
Some of the procedures and tests that students perform for the laboratory
component of the course in school-based laboratory are:
a. Bilirubin tests
b. Clinical enzymology (transferases, dehydrogenase, hydrolases)
c. Electrolyte testing
d. Hormone testing
e. Drug tests
18. Seminars 1 and 2
This course is taken during the student's fourth year in the program together
with the internship training. It deals with current laboratory analyses used in the practice
of medical technology.

19. Molecular Biology and Diagnostics

Molecular Biology deals with the nucleic acid and protein molecule interaction
within the cell to promote proper growth, cell division, and development. It covers the
molecular mechanisms of DNA replication, repair, transcription, translation, protein
synthesis, and gene regulation.
This course is focused on the concepts, principles, and application of molecular
biology in clinical laboratory. It also deals with the application of different molecular
techniques as tools in the diagnosis of diseases.
• Research Courses
a. Research 1: Introduction to Laboratory Science Research
- deals with the basic concepts and principles of research as applied in Medical
Technology/Clinical Laboratory Science. Ethical principles, as applied in research,
are also emphasized
b. Research 2: Research Paper Writing and Presentation
- with the basic concepts and principles of research as applied in Medical
Technology/Clinical Laboratory Science. Ethical principles, as applied in research,
are also emphasized

• Clinical Internship Training

- taken during the students' fourth year in the program. Only those who have
completed and passed all the academic and institutional requirements for the first
three years of the program, and other requirements as specified in the official
documents of the institution, college and/or departments are qualified for
internship. Before proceeding with the actual training, students are required to
undergo physical and laboratory examinations which include, but not limited to,
complete blood count (CBC), urinalysis, fecalysis, chest X-ray and/or sputum
microscopy, Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and Hepatitis B surface
antibody (HBsAb) screening, and drug testing (for methamphetamines and
cannabinoids). Proof of vaccination for hepatitis B is also a requirement.
 Professional Organizations
- are assemblages of professionals within a particular professional field that come together for the
purpose of collaboration, networking, and professional development or advancement.
- provide opportunities for professional growth and continuing education by offering workshops,
trainings and seminars, and by publishing research journals.
In the Philippines, membership to an accredited professional organization (APO) or
accredited integrated professional organization (AIPO) is a requirement for hiring, retention,
and sometimes for the renewal of professional licenses. An APO or AIPO is a professional society
duly accredited by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the respective
Professional Regulatory Board (PRB).

➢ Benefits of membership in professional organizations

a. Recognition
Professional organizations recognize their outstanding members and
leaders in the practice and special fields such as research, public service, and
community engagements through awards. This helps enhance one's professional
profile.

b. Profile
Membership in a professional organization can also build the career
portfolio of a professional. A professional society can also provide opportunities for
speaking engagements, career specialization, publication in research journals, and
even scholarship and training programs abroad.

c. Perks
Perks usually come in the form of monetary discounts on registration fees
for professional usually come in development activities of the organization. These
discounts are offered exclusively to members of the organization.

d. Professionalism
Professionals must adhere to the set of rules or code of ethics prescribed
by the professional society. Although this is the least in terms of value among the
benefits, this is an advantage for employers since adherence to prescribed rules
shapes the conduct of a professional.

e. Education
Professional organizations organize continuing professional development
(CPD) activities for their members through conventions, seminars, fora, workshops,
and other activities of similar nature. Also, most professional societies publish
research journals which could serve as avenues for improving the body of
knowledge in a certain field.

f. Networking
Activities conducted by professional organizations provide opportunities
for building networks in the field. Gatherings and other activities can be potential
avenues for creating long-term linkages and connections with other professionals
in the field.

➢ Types of Professional Organizations

1. Accrediting Organizations
- accredit curricular programs in educational institutions
- membership in this type of professional organization is limited and is usually
institutional.
✓ PAASCU – Philippine Accrediting Association of School, College,
and Universities
✓ PACUCOA – Philippine Association of College and Universities
Commission one Accreditation

2. Credentialing/Certifying Organizations
- provide certification examinations for professionals. Certified professionals are
required to renew their licenses within a specified duration.
- in the Philippines, credentialing professional organizations are not common due to the
presence of a government professional regulatory body, the Professional Regulation
Commission (PRC).
✓ AMT - American Medical Technologists
✓ ASCP - American Society of Clinical Pathology
✓ ISCL - International Society for Clinical Laboratory Technology
✓ NCA - National Certifying Agency for Medical Laboratory
Personnel
 3. Professional Societies
- contribute to the continued development of a specific group of professionals.
- membership in a national society follows membership in its local affiliate/chapter.
Local
✓ PAMET - Philippine Association of Medical Technologists, Inc.
✓ PASMETH - Philippine Association of Schools of Medical
Technology and Public Health, Inc.
✓ BRAP - BioRisk Association of the Philippines
✓ PBCC - Philippine Blood Coordinating Council
✓ PCQACL - Philippine Council for Quality Assurance in Clinical
Laboratories
✓ PSM - Philippine Society of Microbiologists
✓ PhBBA - Philippine Biosafety and Biosecurity Association

International
✓ ASCP - American Society for Clinical Pathology
✓ AMT - American Medical Technologists
✓ AACLS - ASEAN Association for Clinical Laboratory Sciences
✓ AAMLS - Asia Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists
✓ AAMLT - ASEAN Association of Medical Laboratory
Technologists
✓ ASCLS - American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science
✓ IAMLT - International Association of Medical Laboratory
Technologists
✓ IFBLS - International Federation of Biomedical Laboratory
Science
✓ ISCLT - International Society for Clinical Laboratory
Technologists

❖ PAMET (THE PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAL TECHMOLOGISTS, INC.)

- the national professional organization of Registered Medical Technologists in the Philippines.
It is a non- stock, non-profit organization.
- founded on September 15, 1963 through the initiative of Crisanto G. Almario, considered
as the "Father of PAMET," at the Public Health Laboratory in Quiricada St., Sta. Cruz,
Manila.
- was incorporated and registered at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on
October 14, 1969 with Registration No. 39570 during the presidency of Nardito D. Moraleta
o Charlemagne T. Tamondong – first president

PAMET Insignia (Logo) Core Values

• Circle – symbolizes the continuous • Integrity
involvement where practice and education • Professionalism
must always be integrated • Commitment
• Triangle – the trilogy of love, respect, and • Excellence
integrity • Unity
• Microscope and Snake – science of Medical
Technology Profession
• Green – color of health
• 1864 – year the first PAMET Board was elected

❖ PASMETH (PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOLS OF MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY AND PUBLIC

HEALTH)
- the national organization of recognized schools of medical technology and public health in
the Philippines
- established in 1970.
- on May 13, 1970, Dr. Narciso Albarracin, then Secretary of the Department of Education,
designated Dr. Serafin Juliano (FEU) and Dr. Gustavo U. Reyes (UST) to organize an
association of deans/heads of schools of medical technology and public health
- organization was formally registered at SEC on October 6, 1985 through the Committee on
Legislation chaired by Mr. Cirilo S. Cajucom, with the help of legal counsel Atty. Dexter
Bihis.
o Dr. Gustavo Reyes – President
o Dr. Serafin Juliano – Vice-President
o Dr. Vella Trinidad – Secretary/Treasurer
o Dr. Faustino Sunico – Press Relations Officer
PASMETH Seal
• Circle - represents the continuity of learning and the never- ending quest for excellence in the academic
field
• Diamond - four corners represent the four objectives of the Association: to encourage, work for continuous
development, to take a united stand on matters, and to seek advice
• Microscope - represents the field of Medical Technology and Public Health
• 1970 - year the Association was founded
 ❖ PHISMETHS (PHILIPPINE SOCIETY OF MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY STUDENTS)
- national organization of all medical technology/medical laboratory Science students under
the supervision of PASMETH.
- held it first Medical Technology Student Congress at Our Lady Fatima University in
Valenzuela City on February 24, 2009

PHISMETH Seal
• 3 Circles – symbolize the continuous active involvement of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao in the national
transforming venue of medical laboratory science students
• Laurel – nature and the continuation of life every year
• Green Letters – color of health
• 5 Bubbles from the Test Tube – 5 objectives embodied in the constitution of the organization
• 15 Interconnected Molecules Outside a Test Tube – unity of the 15 board schools exploring various
possibilities and aiming towards the integral growth and holistic development of medical laboratory science
students
• Microscope – represents medical laboratory science
Nature of the Clinical Laboratory
• Republic Act No. 4688
- an act regulating the operation and maintenance of clinical laboratories and requiring the
registration of the same with the department of health, providing penalty for the violation
thereof, and for other purposes
- approved last, June 18, 1966

• Section 1
Any person, firm or corporation, operating and maintaining a clinical laboratory in which
body fluids, tissues, secretions, excretions and radioactivity from beings or animals are analyzed
for the determination of the presence of pathologic organisms, processes and/or conditions in
the persons or animals from which they were obtained, shall register and secure a license
annually at the office of the Secretary of Health: Provided, That government hospital laboratories
doing routine or minimum laboratory examinations shall be exempt from the provisions of this
section if their services are extensions of government regional or central laboratories
• Section 2
It shall be unlawful for any person to be professionally in-charge of a registered clinical
laboratory unless he is a licensed physician duly qualified in laboratory medicine and authorized
by the Secretary of Health, such authorization to be renewed annually. No license shall be
granted or renewed by the Secretary of Health for the operation and maintenance of a clinical
laboratory unless such laboratory is under the administration, direction and supervision of an
authorized physician, as provided for in the preceding paragraph

• Administrative Order No. 2007-0027

- revised rules and regulations governing the licensure and regulation of clinical laboratories
in the Philippines
- issued on August 22, 2007

➢ Definition of Terms
a. Applicant
- natural or juridical person who intends to operate a clinical laboratory
b. BHFS
- acronym for the Bureau of Health Facilities and Services
c. CHD
- Acronym for the Center for Heath Development
d. Clinical Laboratory
- facility where tests are done on specimens from the human body to obtain information about
the health status of a patient for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases. These
tests include, but are not limited to, the following disciplines: clinical chemistry, hematology,
immunohematology, microbiology, immunology, clinical microscopy, histopathology, cytology,
toxicology, endocrinology, molecular biology, and cytogenetics. Other functions of the clinical
laboratory are to provide consultative advisory services covering all aspects of laboratory
investigation including the interpretation of results and advice on further appropriate
investigation. Facilities that are involved in the pre-analytical processes, such as the collection,
handling or preparation of specimens, or act as a mailing or distribution center, such as in a
laboratory network or system are also considered to be a part of a clinical laboratory. The total
testing process includes pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical procedures
e. Critical Values
- panic values originally described by Lundberg as "life-threatening" unless something is done
promptly and for which some corrective action could be undertaken
f. EQAP
- acronym for External Quality Assessment Program
- program where participating laboratories are given unknown samples for
analysis. These samples are to be treated as ordinary human specimens for
the usual processing and examination.
g. Inspection Tool
- checklist used by the regulatory officers during inspection visit(s) to evaluate
compliance of a clinical laboratory to the minimum standards and technical
requirements
h. Institution
- corporate body or establishment organized for an educational, medical, charitable, or similar
purpose
i. License
- document issued by the DOH to an individual, agency, partnership or corporation that operates
a clinical laboratory upon compliance with the requirements set forth in this Order.
 j. Licensee
- the individual, agency, partnership or corporation to whom the license is issued and upon whom
rests compliance with this Order
k. LTO
- acronym for License to Operate. It also refers to the license
l. Mobile Clinical Laboratory
- laboratory testing unit that moves from testing site to another testing site, or has a temporary
testing location. It shall have a base laboratory
m. Monitoring Examinations
- tests done in series on patients as a guide for treatment or follow-up of their condition
n. NRL
- acronym for the National Reference Laboratory
- laboratory in a government hospital which had been designated by the DOH to provide special
functions and services for specific disease areas. These functions include provision of referral
services such as confirmatory testing, surveillance, resolution of conflicting results between or
among laboratories; training; research, implementation of EQAS; evaluation of diagnostic kits and
reagents.
- may or may not be part of a general clinical laboratory
o. POL
- acronym for Physician's Office Laboratory
- individual doctor's office/clinic wherein laboratory examinations are performed.
p. POCT
- acronym for Point of Care Testing. It is a diagnostic testing at or near the site of patient care
rather than in the clinical laboratory. It includes bedside testing, outpatient and homecare
q. Routine Tests
- the basic, commonly requested tests in the laboratory, the results of which are not required to
be released immediately upon completion. It shall follow the usual procedures and system in the
laboratory
r. Satellite Testing Site
- testing site that performs laboratory examinations under the administrative control of a licensed
laboratory, but performed outside the physical confines of that laboratory
s. STAT Tests
- tests done on urgent cases, the results of which shall be released immediately, within one (1)
hour after the procedure. STAT is an abbreviation for statism which means immediately

➢ Classifications of Clinical Laboratories

A. By Ownership
• Government
• Private

B. By Function
• Clinical Pathology
• Anatomic Pathology

C. By Institutional Character
• Institution Based
• Free Based

D. By Service Capability
1. General Clinical Laboratory

Limited-Service Capability
PRIMARY CATEGORY SECONDARY CATEGORY TERTIARY CATEGORY (for institutional-based
only)

• Services of primary
category laboratory
• Services of primary
• Special Chemistry
• Routine category laboratory • Special Hematology,
Hematology • Routine Chemistry including coagulation Provides the laboratory
• Qualitative Platelet • Quantitative procedures tests required for a
Determination Clinical • Immunology
Determination • Microbiology culture
particular service in the
Platelet
• Routine Urinalysis • Cross matching– for and sensitivity institution such as but not
• Routine Fecalysis hospital-based
• Aerobic anaerobic limited to dialysis centers
hospital based) and (for
• Blood typing– for • Gram staining- for and social hygiene clinics.
hospital based)
hospital-based hospital-based • Aerobic or anaerobic
• KOH-forhospital-based (non-hospital
based)
 2. Special Laboratory
- laboratory that offers highly specialized tests that are usually not provided with a general
clinical laboratory

➢ Penalty
Any person who operates a clinical laboratory without proper license from the DOH shall upon
conviction be subject to imprisonment for not less than one (1) month or a fine of not less than Php
1,000 and not more than Php 5,000 or both at the discretion of the court. Provided, however that if the
offender is a firm or a corporation, the managing head and/or the owner(s) shall be liable to the penalty
imposed

➢ Sections of the Clinical Laboratory

a. Microbiology
- subdivided into four sections: bacteriology, mycobacteriology, mycology, and virology.
- specimens usually submitted are blood and other body fluids, stool, tissues, and swabs from
different sites in the body.
- tests include the microscopic visualization of microorganisms after staining, isolation, and
identification of bacteria (aerobes and anaerobes) and fungi using varied culture media and
different biochemical tests, and at times, antigen typing, and antibacterial susceptibility
testing.
- other activities performed in this section include the preparation of culture media and
stains, quality assurance and control, infection control, and biosafety and proper waste
disposal. Mycobacteriology looks into the identification of mycobacterium (e.g.,
Mycobacterium tuberculosis) from the specimens submitted

b. Hematology
- deals with the examination of cells in the blood and other body fluids (CSF, pleural fluid,
etc.).
- examinations done in this section:
• Complete Blood Count
• Hemoglobin
• Hematocrit
• WBC differential count
• Cell indices

c. Clinical Microscopy
There are two major areas:
• the first area is allotted to routine and other special examinations of urine such as
macroscopic examinations to determine color, transparency, specific gravity, and
pH level, and microscopic examinations to detect presence of abnormal cells
and/or parasites as well as to quantify red cells and WBC and other chemicals
found in urine.
• the second area is assigned to the examination of stool or routine fecalysis.
Detection and identification of parasitic worms and ova are the primary activities
in this area

d. Blood Bank/Immunohematology
- Blood typing and antibody testing are the two main activities performed in this section.
- this section is considered as the most critical in the clinical laboratory.
- in hospital-based clinical laboratories, blood donation activities prompt other activities
such as donor recruitment and screening, bleeding of donor, and post-donation care

e. Immunology and Serology

- analyses of serum antibodies in certain infectious agents (primarily viral agents) are
performed in this section.
- Hepatitis B profile tests, serological tests for syphilis, and tests for hepatitis C and dengue
fever are some examples of antibody screening tests.
 -

➢ Laboratory Testing Cycle

Pre-Analytical Analytical Post-Analytical

• Includes the receipt of

laboratory requests,
patient preparation,
• Deals with the actual
• Deals with the actual
testing of the submitted
testing of the submitted
specimen • Includes the transmission
specimen collection, and
• Important consideration of test results to the
proper transport of
should be given to medical doctor for
specimen in the lab
equipment and instrument interpretation, TAT, and
• Variables that may affect
used, reagent, and internal application of doctor’s
the results are present in
quality control recommendations.
the preparation of the
• The major sources of • Variables on TAT and
request slip until the
variable are: equipment and transcription error
specimen transported to
instrument, quality of
the lab.
reagents, and internal qc.
• Physiological affects this
factor is also phase, diet,
medication etc.