Clinical laboratory immunology: the future.

Abstract

Preparation for the future has two elements. One is to look at the dynamics operating at the present time to estimate where these are heading. The second is to have an open but prepared mind to discern important new elements that will arise to impact on the practice of clinical laboratory immunology. The future is going to be a foreign land, as has been pointed out by Herbert Hooijkaas (1). The language will be different from that which we are used to. The terms of reference will be different. The areas of importance will be different and the assumptions of professional knowledge and responsibility may be different. Clearly, meeting the conditions required for successful performance and communication in a foreign land or era will require continual attention. Readiness to learn as well as preparation in the basics will be needed for effective participation in the future world.