Clinical chemistry is definitely an interdisciplinary subject between natural science and medicine. The major part of clinical chemistry is natural science and therefore theoretical science. To a lesser extent, however, clinical chemistry is practical science or "action science" which is aimed at a certain action. 2. The question "Is clinical chemistry a professional field for physicians, for scientists or for both?" can be answered with the statement: It follows from its historical development and its characteristic theory and practice, and is de facto true throughout the world, that clinical chemistry is a professional field for physicians and natural scientists. 3. The broad scope of the technical field and the challenges to be expected in future within the framework of the European Community will require the recruiting aspiring clinical chemists both from medicine and from the natural sciences. 4. Qualified postgraduate training is more important than the nature of the initial study course. 5. Apart from providing special knowledge and particular abilities, postgraduate training must make the younger generation familiar with the ways of thought of the physician and of the natural scientist. 6. Successful work as a clinical chemist requires "extra-functional" qualifications, such as the ability to conduct dialogue and teamwork with the clinician. 7. The national differences which exist in the definition of the professional pattern "clinical chemist" are a hindrance to the future development of the discipline in the European Community. The starting point for recognition of the profession must be an agreed definition among the professionals of the countries of the European Community of the professional field of the clinical chemist.
