Systematic instruction in interpretive aspects of laboratory medicine.

It is increasingly important for physicians to develop competence in ordering and interpreting laboratory tests. A review of the literature revealed no formal discussion of systematic instruction in the interpretive aspects of laboratory medicine. The goals, organization, instructional approaches, and assessment of a course offering such instruction are described here. Students are expected to develop an algorithmic approach to ordering and interpreting laboratory tests in the course of diagnosing and managing clinical problems in the major areas of medicine. Instructional approaches include lectures, case problem-solving sessions, and independent study. There has been an exponential growth in the number of students electing to take this course. Students respond enthusiastically to most aspects of the course. They are rated significantly higher on appropriate criterion measures in subsequent clinical electives than students who have not had such formal instruction in laboratory medicine during the senior years.