CODE OF PRACTICE
Introduction:
All Medical Laboratory Scientists are representing a Scientific Profession and are thus expected to retain a standard of professionalism, responsibilities and ethical considerations. These characteristics are embodied in the Code of Practice written by the Council for Professions Complementary to Medicine.
CODE OF PRACTICE – MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE (CPCM, April 2006)
Expectations of a Medical Laboratory Scientist:
No other officer other than those registered as a member on the register for Medical Laboratory Science, with the Council for the Professions Complementary to Medicine (CPCM) shall perform/practice duties related to such a profession.
A state registered Medical Laboratory Scientist must be able to practise within the legal and ethical boundaries of his/her profession.
A Medical Laboratory Scientist is to be aware of the Maltese, European and International Standards that govern and affect pathology laboratory practice.
He/she must be able to practise in a non-discriminatory manner.
Must observe infection control measures.
Biohazard waste is to be disposed of according to international requirements or according to guidance/laws of the National authorities.
A Medical Laboratory Scientist should recognize the need for effective self-management of duties and be able to practise accordingly, without exposing oneself or ones’ colleagues to health risks.
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Laboratory Health and Safety procedures are to be strictly adhered to at all times. One is to ensure that Health and Safety measures are in place and personnel adequately trained.
Be responsible to and held accountable for the quality and validity of the results issued, and is to ensure that laboratory accreditation is maintained where necessary.
Must understand and ensure career-long self-directed learning.
Be able to maintain confidentiality and obtain informed consent, according to the Data Protection Act.
Personal data resulting from laboratory activities is to be confidentially kept as directed by the Archives Act when this is fully functional.
A Medical Laboratory Scientist should practice the profession as indicated in the law governing the profession.
Medical Laboratory Scientists should be able to work, where appropriate, with other professionals, thus building and sustaining professional relationships as both a leading independent practitioner and as a member of a team of equal professionals.
Be able to analyse, evaluate and investigate so as to monitor disease processes and normal states.
A Medical Laboratory Scientist is to develop, evaluate and implement new scientific techniques as required.
He/she must be able to use research to determine appropriate actions, which research facilities are to be provided by the employer.
A Medical Laboratory Scientist must be able to audit, reflect on and review practice.
Must ensure that the Profession of Medical Laboratory Science is respected by both professionals belonging to it and by other health care professionals.
Conclusion:
In view of the continuous development in Medical Laboratory Science, it is suggested that a review of the Code of Practice or its updating is performed as necessary to reflect the local professional standards and legislation as well as any other European legislation which may affect the said Code of Practice. Such changes are to be initiated through the Council for the Professions Complementary to Medicine only.
It is highly recommended that every Medical Laboratory Scientist carries out Continuing Professional Development.