ASCLS-Michigan
2025 Annual Conference
April 6-8, 2025

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Join us at the newly renovated Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport Hotel!

Minutes away from Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, John Ball Zoo, Bridge Street Entertainment District, downtown Grand Rapids, museums, craft breweries, and more!To reserve a Standard Double Queen room in the room block for a discounted rate of $132.00 plus taxes and fees, please visit https://bit.ly/ASCLSMI-2025Hotel or click the link below.Discounted room rates are only available through March 6, 2025 or when the room block sells out, whichever occurs first.

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Exhibitor and Sponsor Information

For our information on exhibiting at or sponsoring our 2025 Annual Conference, click the link below to download a copy of our Vendor Prospectus.To participate in one of our exhibitor or sponsorship opportunities, select Register Now from the home page.

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Itinerary

*Educational sessions subject to change as needs arise.

Sunday, April 6

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
12:30-3:30 PM
Meet the ASCLS-Michigan Board of Directors and learn more about what ASCLS-Michigan is doing to address issues of importance to the organization.

REGISTRATION
4:00-4:30 PM
Stop by the registration table to check in and receive your name badge and other important conference information.

ADVANCING THE LABORATORY PROFESSION
4:30-7:30 PM
Kick off your attendance at the meeting Sunday, April 6 4:30-7:30pm with the ASCLS-Michigan Membership Meeting, light fare, and continuing education and discussion on sustainability in the clinical laboratory. Complimentary for all conference registrants, but pre-registration is required.Includes the following P.A.C.E. session:
Reducing the Environmental Impact of Clinical Laboratories (Basic)
Speaker: Michelle Russell, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, MB(ASCP)CM, CHT(ABHI)Clinical laboratories generate valuable information, but like other areas in healthcare, utilize significant resources and generate several types of waste. This program discusses strategies for implementing an environmental management system in the clinical lab, including common barriers and targets for change.Outcomes: 1) Discuss the clinical laboratory’s connection to the health system impacts of energy expenditure and waste generation. 2) Identify energy and waste intensive areas of the clinical lab. 3) Discuss examples and strategies for energy and waste reduction in the clinical lab.

Monday, April 7

REGISTRATION
8:00 AM-3:00 PM
Stop by the registration table to check in and receive your name badge and other important conference information.

WELCOME RECEPTION WITH EXHIBITORS
10:00 AM-11:30 AM
Take advantage of exclusive exhibit hours to connect with industry-leading exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services, and innovations. Explore interactive displays, engage in one-on-one conversations with experts, and discover new solutions to enhance your professional life.

POSITIONING YOUR LABORATORY FOR FUTURE SUCCESS: ADDRESSING INDUSTRY TRENDS AND OVERCOMING CHALLENGES (BASIC)
9:00 AM-10:00 AM
Speaker: Jane Hermansen, MBA, MLS(ASCP)CMAlthough we work in the laboratory every day, how much do we truly know much about our industry, and where we fit in with healthcare overall? You may be surprised to know the overall scope and reach of the medical laboratory! As the primary contributor of data in the medical record, the laboratory touches nearly every patient within a health delivery system. Riding a wave of post-pandemic success, the laboratory realized a position of prestige, but it has been hard to maintain that momentum. Healthcare industry headwinds range from reimbursement challenges to regulatory pressures and increasing competition, and all impact the laboratory. But don’t let those challenges get you down! As a critical element of healthcare, the laboratory influences patient diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and disease prevention, all for less than three cents on a dollar. In this interactive presentation, you will learn about today’s medical laboratory market, current state and market projections. You will understand the headwinds we face as an industry – cumbersome regulations, reimbursement changes, and increasingly aggressive competitors. And you will take a self-assessment that will help you develop strategies to ensure enduring laboratory success and sustainability.Outcomes: 1) Describe the current state of the medical laboratory industry. 2) Identify internal and external challenges facing every medical laboratory. 3) Develop a plan to improve your laboratory’s value and impact.Session made possible by Mayo Clinic Laboratories and Bronson Healthcare

CASE CLOSED: SOLVING MICROBIAL PUZZLES (BASIC)
11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Speaker: Mattie Brechbiel, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, SM(ASCP)CMIn this session, we will delve into the multifaceted world of microbial diseases using case studies. Attendees will engage in analyzing the latest strategies used to identify infectious diseases. By the end of the session, participants will leave with a richer understanding of microbial diseases, a clearer perspective on the impact of emerging pathogens, and practical insights into the value of interdisciplinary approaches for tackling global infectious disease challenges.Outcomes: 1) Enhance understanding of microbial disease. 2) Analyze the impact of emerging pathogens. 3) Discuss interdisciplinary collaboration in infectious disease management.

BLOOD MANAGEMENT: A KEY TO PATIENT SAFETY (INTERMEDIATE)
11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Speaker: Laurie Gilliard, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, SBB(ASCP)CMThis lecture explores essential strategies in patient blood management, focusing on optimizing transfusion practices, enhancing patient safety, and improving clinical outcomes. Attendees will learn about innovative approaches, current guidelines, and the importance of effective blood utilization in healthcare settings. Join us to elevate your understanding of blood management.Outcomes: 1) Apply current concepts of patient blood management and its importance in improving patient outcomes. 2) Explore ways to collaborate with clinical teams to optimize blood management and improve patient care outcomes. 3) Gain insights into the latest innovations and technologies in blood management, enhancing their expertise as laboratory professionals.

THE CAREER LANDSCAPE: DIVERSE PATHS TO FULFILLMENT (BASIC)
11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Speakers:
Peter Davis, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, MLT(ASCP)CM
Kimberly Kibby, MSA, CIC, MLS(ASCP)CM, SC(ASCP)CM, SH(ASCP)CM, SM(ASCP)CM, PBT
Bosky Uphadyay, MLS(ASCP)CMJoin us for an interactive panel to discuss career options and advancements that you can explore after you receive your MLS degree. The panelists will discuss their unique backgrounds which span beyond traditional roles in the clinical laboratory.Outcomes: 1) Provide examples of career pathways in clinical laboratory science, including how each path utilizes their medical laboratory background in unique ways. 2) Identify key skills and competencies needed for career advancement in non-traditional roles 3) Explore strategies for networking and professional development to unlock new career opportunities.

LUNCH AND LEARN: ADVANCING PRECISION MEDICINE THROUGH PHARMACOGENOMICS (BASIC)
12:30 PM-2:30 PM
Speaker: Xander M. R. van Wijk, PhD, DABCC, FADLM, SC(ASCP)CMPharmacogenomics (PGx) enables truly personalized medicine by tailoring treatments based on genetic profile. Despite its potential, clinical adoption remains slow. This session explores the role of PGx in precision medicine, key testing strategies, and challenges in implementation, offering insights to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice.Outcomes: 1) Define the concept of pharmacogenomics. 2) Describe common pharmacogenomics implementation challenges. 3) List strengths and limitations of analytical methods for genotype determination.Session will be followed by open exhibit time.

LATEST TRENDS IN DESIGNER DRUGS (INTERMEDIATE)
2:30 PM-3:30 PM
Speaker: Xander M. R. van Wijk, PhD, DABCC, FADLM, SC(ASCP)CMThe rise of novel psychoactive substances (designer drugs) poses challenges for the clinical laboratory. These synthetic analogs of drugs such as opioids, benzodiazepines, and cannabinoids have the potential to evade regulation and detection. This session explores emerging trends, detection strategies, and analytical challenges through case studies, highlighting the importance of advanced testing for identification and public health response.Outcomes: 1) Define what designer drugs are. 2) Describe the current trends in designer drug use. 3) List strengths and limitations of analytical methods for designer drug detection.

FROM CHICAGO TO RWANDA: IMPROVING BLOOD BANKING PRACTICES (BASIC)
2:30 PM-3:30 PM
Speaker: Laurie Gilliard, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, SBB(ASCP)CMAttendees will learn about the collaborative work undertaken with the University of Global Health Equity in Kigali since 2019, aimed at addressing the critical challenges in blood collection and transfusion practices. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the challenges low resource countries face as they work towards improving transfusion safety.Outcomes: 1) Describe the blood banking challenges faced in Rwanda, including safety and resource constraints. 2) Discuss the development and implementation of an educational program designed to enhance the skills of blood bank laboratorians and transfusion practitioners. 3) Explain the vision for sustainable improvements in blood banking practices and patient safety in resource-limited countries.

EXCEL AND PREVAIL: FIXING LAB MISCOMMUNICATION WITH DIGITAL LOGS (INTERMEDIATE)
2:30 PM-3:30 PM
Speaker: Peter Davis, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, MLT(ASCP)CMDiscover how an Excel-based communication log can transform lab workflows by tackling miscommunication and inefficiency. This session covers the research behind communication challenges, step-by-step log creation, and practical integration strategies. Attendees will leave equipped to streamline processes, minimize errors, and enhance collaboration in their labs.Outcomes: 1) Identify common miscommunication issues in the lab and how they impact workflow efficiency. 2) Be able to construct an Excel-based communication log tailored to their lab's specific needs using step-by-step guidance. 3) Assess potential challenges in implementing a digital communication log and apply solutions to overcome these obstacles in their own lab setting.

IN CASE YOU WERE WONDERING - INTERESTING PATIENT CASE STUDIES (INTERMEDIATE)
3:45 PM-4:45 PM
Speaker: Eve Graham, MLS(ASCP)This presentation takes a look at the important role that the laboratory plays in diagnosis and disease monitoring. Eight hematology cases will be reviewed starting with the patient's symptoms, the laboratory results, the diagnosis, and the outcomes. Case studies include graphs, microscope images and educational information.Outcomes: 1) Recognize signs, symptoms and laboratory results that may assist with the diagnosis of adverse hematologic disorders. 2) Discuss how patients are managed and treated in relation to their underlying disease state. 3) Analyze several patient case studies to better understand the how important the laboratory's role is in diagnosis and disease monitoring.

LABORATORY-DEVELOPED TESTS: DESIGN TO IMPLEMENTATON (BASIC)
3:45 PM-4:45 PM
Speaker: Rachel Siddall, MS, MLS(ASCP)CMThis session outlines how laboratory-developed tests are designed, validated, and implemented in clinical laboratories as well as the anticipated regulatory changes following the FDA final rule on LDTs.Outcomes: 1) State the definition of a laboratory-developed test. 2) Identify and summarize the six key phases of laboratory test development. 3) Recognize the ways the FDA’s final rule will change how laboratory-developed tests are regulated.

CELEBRATION OF THE PROFESSION
4:45 PM-6:00 PM
Join us as we celebrate our profession together with our fellow colleagues, alumni and friends. The annual ASCLS-Michigan Awards Ceremony will be held at this time, including recognition of our Mock Exam winners, and our Special Projects Silent Auction will culminate during this reception. Profits from the silent auction are used to fund a number of student, recent graduate, and professional member travel opportunities. Items may be displayed in the Exhibit Hall for preview and bidding during exhibit hours earlier in the day, as space permits.

Tuesday, April 8

REGISTRATION
8:00 AM-12:00 PM
Stop by the registration table to check in and receive your name badge and other important conference information.

HIDDEN CURRENTS: MONITORING COMMUNITY HEALTH THROUGH WASTEWATER SURVEILLLANCE (BASIC)
8:30 AM-9:30 AM
Speaker: Michelle Ammerman, PhDThis session is a comprehensive overview of wastewater monitoring as a tool for public health and environmental management. Topics include methods for accessing and collecting wastewater data, techniques for accurate data interpretation, and key considerations for understanding the limitations of this approach. The presentation will also explore actionable applications of wastewater data.Outcomes: 1) Discuss the fundamentals of wastewater monitoring. 2) Develop skills in data generation and interpretation. 3) Explore practical applications and implications of wastewater monitoring.

EXCITING CHEMISTRY SESSION COMING SOON
8:30 AM-9:30 AM
Details to be updated as they are available.

DEDICATED EXHIBIT TIME
9:30 AM-10:30 AM
Take advantage of exclusive exhibit hours to connect with industry-leading exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services, and innovations. Explore interactive displays, engage in one-on-one conversations with experts, and discover new solutions to enhance your professional life.

THE ROLE OF THE LABORATORIAN IN THE PRIMARY CARE SETTING (BASIC)
10:30 AM-11:30 AM
Speaker: Abbey Hilden, MLS(ASCP)CMCP)CMThis presentation explores the critical role of laboratory professionals in primary care settings, emphasizing their expertise in point-of-care testing (POCT). Attendees will learn how laboratory insights enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve patient outcomes, and ensure quality control in primary care workflows.Outcomes: 1) Describe the role of laboratory professionals in integrating POCT into primary care to support timely and accurate diagnoses. 2) Identify key quality control measures to maintain reliability and compliance in POCT processes. 3) Investigate the impact and limitations of point-of-care testing (POCT) in primary care and underserved communities.

UNPACKING THE BAGGAGE THAT COMES WITH CAR T CELL THERAPY (BASIC)
10:30 AM-11:30 AM
Speaker: John A. Gerlach, F(ACHI)This presentation will discuss the construction of CAR T cells, their intended use, and some of the side effects and adverse outcomes associated with their use.Outcomes: 1) Summarize how CAR T cells are produced. 2) Recognize how CAR T cells can be used for treatment of various diseases. 3) Contextualize how the actions of CAR T cells will lead to perturbations of laboratory diagnostic assay results.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF BIOMARKER TESTING FOR TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY (BASIC)
11:45 AM-12:45 PM
Speaker: Carmen Gherasim, PhDThis session will address clinical and laboratory considerations for implementing blood-based biomarker tests for the evaluation and management of traumatic brain injury. Although GFAP and UCH-L1 testing were cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), integration of blood-based tests into clinical algorithms presents unique challenges, and their widespread clinical implementation relies on insights from early adopters.Outcomes: 1) Recognize the limitations of the currently available diagnostic tools for TBI and the opportunities of blood-based biomarkers for evaluation and management of TBI . 2) Identify the steps required for a successful implementation of blood-based TBI biomarkers tests into clinical laboratories. 3) Discuss the clinical interpretation of GFAP and UCH-L1 results in various clinical scenarios and their impact on clinical decision-making.

EXCITING IMMUNOHEMATOLOGY SESSION COMING SOON
11:45 AM-12:45 PM
Details to be updated as they are available.

LABORATORY TESTING FOR DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY, INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY, AND AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
1:00 PM-2:30 PM
Speaker: Danielle LaGrave, MS, CGCSession details coming soon!Session made possible by ARUP Laboratories

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Fees

Registration rates for each registration type can be found below.To register, select Register Now from the home page.