Since 1980, there has been significant change in the operation of Clinical Microbiology laboratories. The increasing complexity has driven changes in staff training requirements, and training delivery modes have evolved to improve both staff competency and operational efficiency.
The changes in staff training and continuing education/professional development over the past forty years will be reviewed, and the driving factors for these changes discussed. The review will include the role of the ASM Clinical Microbiology Special Interest Group in continuing education during this time. The session will conclude with a discussion of future trends in training and development in pathology laboratories.