The role of the medical laboratory director.

The American Medical Association notes in its Principles of Medical Ethics that a physician "shall be dedicated to provide competent medical service with compassion and respect for human dignity." As physicians whose profession involves the medical direction of pathology and clinical laboratory services, pathologists strive to provide high-quality, cost-effective services to support the needs of patient care. These services must be provided under the aegis of extensive legal and regulatory mandates of various governmental and nongovernmental entities. To accomplish his/her task, the pathologist can use tools of evidence-based medicine and clinical practice guidelines together with his/her medical and scientific training and experience. At the same time, the Medical Director must be able to measure and demonstrate the value of his/her contribution in today's competitive environment.