ICMLS Advocacy for Encouraging Medical Laboratory Professionals to Participate in Scientific Programmes, Conferences, and Trainings to Stay Updated with Developments

The Indian Confederation of Medical Laboratory Science (ICMLS) firmly believes that continuous learning and professional development are vital for maintaining competence, quality, and innovation in medical laboratory practice. In the rapidly advancing field of diagnostic sciences where new technologies, automation systems, and molecular methods are emerging every day it is essential that Medical Laboratory Professionals regularly update their knowledge and skills.

To achieve this, ICMLS has been a leading advocate for creating a national culture of lifelong learning, encouraging laboratory professionals to actively participate in scientific programmes, conferences, workshops, and training courses, both at the national and international levels.

Key Focus Areas of ICMLS Advocacy

1.      Promotion of Continuing Professional Development (CPD): ICMLS promotes CPD as an integral part of professional life for every laboratory professional. The organization advocates for making participation in recognized CPD activities mandatory for renewal of professional registration under the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP). This ensures that all professionals remain up-to-date with scientific advancements, ethical practices, and quality standards.

2.   Encouraging Institutional and Governmental Support: ICMLS has consistently urged both government and private healthcare institutions to create policies that support and facilitate attendance of laboratory staff at scientific events, including paid leave, sponsorships, and registration fee waivers. Such support motivates professionals to attend workshops, seminars, and conferences organized by recognized academic and professional bodies.

3.    Collaboration with National and International Bodies: The Confederation collaborates with organizations such as the International Federation of Biomedical Laboratory Science (IFBLS), Indian Association of Medical Microbiologists (IAMM), Indian Association of Pathologists and Microbiologists (IAPM), and WHO-affiliated training programs, to provide members with opportunities for participation in global knowledge exchange and scientific networking.

4.  Organization of National and Regional Conferences: ICMLS itself organizes the National Conference of Medical Laboratory Professionals (ICMLS Annual Conference) and multiple regional workshops, webinars, and symposia on emerging laboratory topics. These programs serve as platforms for sharing research findings, learning new techniques, and promoting professional excellence among laboratory staff across India.

5.      Incentives and Recognition for Participation: ICMLS advocates that institutions should provide performance-based incentives or recognition points to professionals who actively participate in scientific activities. The Confederation also proposes that such participation be considered during promotions, appraisals, and accreditation evaluations to encourage active involvement in continuous education.

6.   Integration of Research and Evidence-Based Practice: ICMLS encourages laboratory professionals to not only attend scientific meetings but also present research papers, case studies, and innovative practices. This fosters a culture of research and evidence-based diagnostics, enhancing both scientific credibility and institutional reputation.

7.      Capacity Building Through Training and Certification: The Confederation collaborates with academic and training institutions to conduct skill upgradation programs on advanced diagnostic technologies such as molecular diagnostics, point-of-care testing, laboratory informatics, biosafety, and quality management systems (ISO 15189). These short-term training programs ensure that professionals remain aligned with global standards and evolving laboratory practices.

8.    Digital Learning and E-Training Platforms: Understanding the need for flexible learning, ICMLS promotes the use of digital platforms, webinars, and online certification programs, allowing professionals from remote or resource-limited areas to access continuous education opportunities without leaving their workplace.

9.    Policy Advocacy for CPD Integration in Regulation: ICMLS has recommended to the NCAHP Commission and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) to include mandatory CPD participation requirements in the national regulations for Medical Laboratory Professionals. The Confederation also advocates for CPD credit points to be linked with license renewal, professional grading, and recognition.

 The ICMLS advocacy for encouraging Medical Laboratory Professionals to participate in scientific programmes, conferences, and trainings is rooted in its mission to promote excellence, innovation, and accountability in laboratory medicine. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional engagement, ICMLS ensures that India’s laboratory workforce remains competent, confident, and globally competitive.

Through sustained advocacy, collaborations, and organization of national-level scientific events, ICMLS continues to empower laboratory professionals to stay updated with developments, embrace innovation, and deliver world-class diagnostic services that uphold patient safety and healthcare quality.