| 2003 |
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YEAR BOOK |
Association of Clinical Biochemists in Ireland
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Association of Clinical Biochemists in Ireland
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Introduction
The Clinical Biochemist analyses constituents of body fluids and tissues, interprets the scientific findings in order to diagnose disease, monitor disease progression and assess the efficacy of treatment. Clinical Biochemistry is a consultant led hospital based discipline serving hospital specialists and GPs alike. Clinical biochemists are also actively involved in research into the disease process and in the development of new tests, for example DNA diagnostics.
Activities
The Association of Clinical Biochemists in Ireland (ACBI), since its establishment in 1963, has represented the academic and professional interests of the profession both in Ireland and abroad. It draws members from North and South and is the recognised National Body affiliated to IFCC (International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine) and EC4 (European Confederation of Clinical Chemistry). Members of the ACBI are active participants in the sub-committees of these organisations.
In Ireland, the ACBI represents the profession on various collaborative bodies, including the Irish External Quality Assurance Scheme (measuring good laboratory practice and performance) and the Joint Laboratory Accreditation Group (Clinical Pathology Accreditation). The ACBI has taken a lead and has set up a Registration Board for clinical biochemists in Ireland. This is an important move to protect the public from malpractice and incompetence.
The Association promotes the advancement of the practice of Clinical Biochemistry by increasing the awareness of appropriate developments in medicine, biochemistry and technology, and by encouraging ongoing research and development. This is achieved through a series of scientific meetings held throughout the year, and a two-day annual conference to which world-renowned experts are invited to give papers on the major current developments in the field.
The ACBI runs a detailed educational programme of continuing professional development aimed at those members studying for higher qualifications (MRCPath.) In addition, the ACBI has published guidelines on the use of Biochemical Cardiac Markers and Risk Factors, guidelines on the optimal use of tumour marker testing (monitoring cancer treatment), and therapeutic drug monitoring for medical practitioners.
ACBI 2003 Annual Conference, Malahide, November 14th-15th 2003
A distinguished panel of speakers from Ireland, UK, and USA will be contributing to this year's conference, which is to include papers on clinical governance, information technology, work organisation, clinical and analytical developments and their implications.
Contact: ACBI Chairman - Ms Niamh Cavanagh, Biochemistry Department,
Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway;
Tel: +353 905 48264; E-mail: [email protected] ; ACBI Web: www.acbi.ie