CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY EDUCATION IN SPAIN

Clinical biochemistry in Spain was first established in 1978 as an ind ependent speciality. It is one of several clinical laboratory sciences specialities, together with haematology, microbiology, immunology and general laboratory (Clinical analysis, analisis clinicos). Graduates in Medicine, Pharmacy, Chemistry and Biological Sciences can enter pos t-graduate training in Clinical Chemistry after a nation-wide examinat ion. Training in an accredited Clinical Chemistry department is 4 year s. A national committee for medical and pharmacist specialities advise s the government on the number of trainees, program and educational un its accreditation criteria. Technical staff includes nurses and specif ically trained technologists. Accreditation of laboratories is develop ed at different regional levels. The Spanish Society for Clinical Bioc hemistry and Molecular Pathology (SECQ), the national representative i n the IFCC, has 1600 members, currently publishes a scientific journal (Quimica Clinica) and a newsletter. It organises a continuous educati on program, a quality control program and an annual Congress.