Why is Certification Important?

The Histotechnology profession is committed to protecting the public and delivering the highest quality of patient care possible. The National Society for Histotechnology strongly supports and encourages the certification of all individuals working in the histology field.

Continuing education is a lifelong process and is motivated by a number of factors, including curiosity, self identified gaps in knowledge, and the desire to provide the very best care to one’s patients. It requires that the Histotechnology professional continually develop his or her knowledge and skills, both through traditional continuing medical education and other activities, such as case consultation with colleagues, peer review, and regular reading of professional journals and other relevant publications.

Studying for and passing an ASCP Board of Certification certification exam signals to your employer that you meet the highest level of academic and clinical standards. Although certification is voluntary individuals have the responsibility to demonstrate competence before expecting the recognition and rewards of a profession. In addition certification and the process of certificate maintenance through continuing education lend credibility to the profession in legislative and policy arenas.

For a list of what states require licensing click here.