The Need for Dedicated Microbiology Leadership in the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory.

Samuel, Linoj P; Hansen, Glen T; Kraft, Colleen S; Pritt, Bobbi S

Clinical microbiology laboratories play a crucial role in patient care using traditional and innovative diagnostics. Challenges faced by laboratories include emerging pathogens, rapidly evolving technologies, healthcare-acquired infections, antibiotic-resistant organisms and diverse patient populations. Despite these challenges, many clinical microbiology laboratories in the United States are not directed by doctoral level microbiology-trained individuals with sufficient time dedicated to laboratory leadership. This manuscript highlights the need for medical microbiology laboratory directors with appropriate training and qualifications.