Dear Dr. NAACLS,

The Program Director of our Histologic Technician-Associate Degree program has left, and we are having trouble finding a new person. What options do we have in complying with Essential 5?

Signed,

Frustrated Dean

Dear Frustrated Dean,

There are several options for fulfilling Essential 5 in both Histotechonology (HT) and Histologic Technician (HTL) programs.

The best of all of the options would be to have a Program Director who is a nationally certified HT or HTL, has a baccalaureate degree, and has three years experience in teaching histotechnology subjects, as well as knowledge of educational methods and current accreditation and certification procedures.

However, many histology programs have relatively small enrollments and cannot afford to hire a full-time histology Program Director who is a trained histologist. Therefore, the college often shares the talents of an existing CLS/MT or CLT/MLT program director who then takes on the additional responsibilities of the HT or HTL Program Director. In these cases, where the Program Director is not certified in histology, the college must employ or have a contractual relationship (either part- or full-time) with a nationally certified HT or HTL who will serve as the Education Coordinator. Often, the Education Coordinator is also a clinical affiliate site supervisor already engaged on a part-time basis. The responsibilities in the job description of the Program Director, and, when required, of the Education Coordinator, are those listed in Essential 5.

If the program has a candidate for Program Director or Education Coordinator positions who is not currently qualified, but would become fully qualified for the position within one calendar year, the program may request that the candidate be accepted by NAACLS as the "Acting Program Coordinator" or "Acting Education Coordinator." Such an approval would be for a maximum of one year and may not be extended for any reason.

Good luck in your search and please know that the NAACLS office is always eager to help you find solutions.

Sincerely,

Dr. NAACLS

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