Continuing Education in Histology

Abstract

degree in the field is not essential. On the other hand, just as many pathologists hold opposing viewpoints. Continuing education and/or acquiring a college degree would greatly benefit the histology technician and should be encouraged and supported by pathologists since they will eventually reap the benefits. The desire to be upgraded and recognized has been a topic of conversation among us for many years, yet there seem to be only a few who are williing to do something about it. In 1977, there were 32 approved training programs for histology technicians, only four of which offered an associate degree. Presently, there are 9,885 histology technicians certified by the Board of Registry, with probably twice that number who are not certified but practice in histology. This needs to be changed for histology to progress to a higher level in the medical field. We are to blame for the slow pace at which our profession is progressing. Only we can hasten this process by motivating ourselves, and others in the field, to continue our education. This can be accomplished by enrolling in the Thomas Edison Degree Program or taking courses pertaining to the field at local junior col-