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A number of different approaches were discussed when the ASCP Immunology exam
committee began looking at this issue. It was felt that a multiple choice
exam would not truly measure a candidate's competence, since theoretical
"book knowledge" is no substitute for hands-on clinical experience. The work
sample model has worked well for other types of ASCP processes, such as the
HT and HTL. This qualification only identifies an individual as "qualified in
clinical cytometry" and does address a relatively (in the minds of some)
narrow aspect of clinical laboratory science. The other specialty
certifications cover a much broader range within traditional subspecialities
of laboratory medicine and also have much longer experience requirements.
Some detractors have put forth the argument that we are merely "certifying" a
particular technology, which the ASCP does not wish to do. This qualification
does address theoretical knowledge, but in a more practical fashion.
All of the work sample projects are "graded" by at least three different
judges, who have undergone a fairly rigorous training and have been
stratified according to their severity levels to ensure that all candidates
are treated fairly. The judges have a set of minimum acceptability criteria
that they use for judging each case. These criteria were developed after
considerable wrangling among the committee members and outside consultants
and are considered the best consensus of minimum acceptable practices in the
clinical cytometry laboratory. All of the judges are cytometry experts and
have been cautioned to be open-minded regarding individual laboratory
protocols. It is perhaps unfortunate, but if an individual wants to apply for
this qualification and does not work in a laboratory that offers a
comprehensive range of cytometry services, he/she probably does not have the
necessary experience (clinical competence) to successfully complete the
process.
I hope this has answered your questions!
Karen Tamul
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