What we do
The ACBI is the voice for Clinical Biochemistry in the Republic of Ireland. The objectives of ACBI are:
- To promote the advancement of Clinical Biochemistry, through scientific and clinical development and translational clinical research, underpinned by a commitment to
continuous quality improvement. - To promote the safe, effective, efficient and equitable delivery of Clinical Biochemistry services by setting, maintaining and improving standards in Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine.
- To promote the professional development of Clinical Biochemists by enhancing their knowledge, skills and competencies through continuous teaching, training and learning.
- To advise and provide a framework for the training of Clinical Biochemists.
- To contribute to regional, national and international strategic planning of Clinical Biochemistry and related diagnostic services.
The ACBI is the Irish National Society of the EFLM (European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine) and is a full national member society of the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC).
It represents Clinical Biochemists at national, European and International forums. ACBI is currently represented at the following forums:
- The Irish External Quality Assessment Scheme (IEQAS)
- The Health and Social Care Professions Alliance (HSCPA)
- The National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP)
- The National Point of Care Consultative Group
- The Irish Endocrine Society (IES)
- The Association of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine (UK)
- The Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath)
- EFLM working groups on Pre-analytical Phase, Register, Distance education and e-learning, Accreditation and ISO/CEN standards
- EFLM task force for Green and Sustainable Laboratories
- IFCC Committee on Point of Care testing and the IFCC Task force for Young Scientists
ACBI members serve as advisors on expert groups such as those convened by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) and NOCA (National Office of Clinical Audit) and the national maternity and gynaecology clinical guideline programme.
The association works closely on matters of common interest with the Academy of Clinical Science and Laboratory Medicine (ACSLM), the Faculty of Pathology of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI), the National Clinical Programme for Pathology and the National Health and Social Care Professions (HSCP) Office in the HSE.
The ACBI supports the education and training of members with events throughout the year, the highlight of which is our annual scientific conference organised by our members. The conference programme includes plenary lectures, poster presentations and clinical cases.
Additional supports provided by the ACBI for training and professional development of Clinical Biochemists include mentoring and bursaries.