Amy E Rishe

What they do

Clinical Laboratory Personnel in Florida perform the diagnostic tests that physicians rely on to identify, monitor, and treat disease. Their work spans hematology, clinical chemistry, microbiology, immunohematology (blood banking), molecular diagnostics, cytology, histology, andrology, and serology/immunology. They run analyzers, prepare and examine specimens, verify results against quality-control standards, troubleshoot equipment, and consult with physicians when results need clinical context.

Florida licenses clinical laboratory professionals in two main tiers — Technologist (broad supervisory and complex testing authority) and Technician (more focused testing authority under technologist supervision) — as well as Directors and Supervisors of clinical laboratories. Workplaces include hospital laboratories, reference laboratories, physician office laboratories, blood banks, public health labs, and specialty molecular and pathology labs. Their accuracy directly influences patient diagnosis, treatment decisions, and public health surveillance across the state.

Licensing in Florida

To become licensed in Florida, candidates must meet education requirements for their category, complete approved clinical training, and pass a recognized national certifying examination (such as ASCP-BOC) in their specialty. Florida issues category-specific licenses (for example, in hematology, microbiology, or chemistry), and applicants choose their specialties at the time of application. Licenses are renewed every two years with documented continuing education in the licensed specialty. The Florida Board of Clinical Laboratory Personnel oversees licensure and discipline.

How to verify or report

Verify a clinical laboratory license through the Florida MQA license search. To report errors, unlicensed testing, or unsafe lab practice, file through the Florida Department of Health complaint form or call 850-488-0796.