Evidence Based Practice and Advanced Competencies in a MHS-CLS Program

Barbara Russell; Barbara Kraj; Lester Pretlow; Anne Ranne; Elizabeth K. Leibach

doi:10.29074/ascls.24.4_Supplement.47

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Barbara Russell, Ed.D. MLS(ASCP)^CM, SH(ASCP)^CM⇑
1. Georgia Health Sciences University, Augusta, GA
Barbara Kraj, MS, MLS(ASCP)^CM
1. Georgia Health Sciences University, Augusta, GA
Lester Pretlow, Ph.D., C(ASCP)^CM
1. Georgia Health Sciences University, Augusta, GA
Anne Ranne, MS, MT(ASCP)
1. Georgia Health Sciences University, Augusta, GA
Elizabeth K. Leibach, Ed.D., M.S., MLS(ASCP)^CM, SBB(ASCP)^CM
1. Georgia Health Sciences University, Augusta, GA

Address for Correspondence: Barbara Russell, Ed.D. MLS(ASCP)^CM, SH(ASCP)^CM, Associate Professor and CLS Program Director, Department of Medical Laboratory, Imaging, and Radiological Sciences, Georgia Health Sciences University, EC-3340, 987 St. Sebastian Way, Augusta, Georgia 30912, (706) 721-7627, brussell{at}georgiahealth.edu

Discuss the criteria that were used in determining the need for the Master of Health Science in Clinical Laboratory Science degree.
Recognize the difference between foundational and advanced objectives.
Identify at least three advanced objectives that could be used in a hematology, chemistry or molecular methods course.
Discuss a hierarchical research model for undergraduate and graduate education in clinical laboratory science.

Abstract

The goals, curriculum, implementation, and immediate impacts of an entry-level Master of Health Science in Clinical Laboratory Science (MHS-CLS) degree are described as compared to the baccalaureate program (BS-CLS) in the same institution. The MHS-CLS program was instituted in fall semester, 2008; the inaugural class graduated in spring semester 2010. To document the need for the MHS-CLS, program statistics, such as the number of students entering the current BS-CLS program with previous baccalaureate degrees, numbers of students graduating with biology and chemistry degrees in the United States, CLS workforce shortages and pending retirement statistics were used. The shortage of CLS practitioners able to perform and publish evidence-based practice research also supported program need. The MHS-CLS curriculum includes advanced courses, advanced competencies incorporated into existing BS-CLS courses, and a capstone research project in evidence based practice.

ABBREVIATIONS: MLS, medical laboratory scientist; CLS, clinical laboratory science; MHS-CLS, Master of Health Science in Clinical Laboratory Science; BS-CLS, Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science; NAACLS, National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences; CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; IOM, Institute of Medicine; EBM, Evidence-Based Medicine; EBP, Evidence-Based Practice; IRB, Institutional Review Board