Application Fee: $225
To be eligible for this Qualification, an applicant must satisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes:
Route 1: ASCP certified as a technologist/scientist (HTL, MT/MLS, CT, BB, C, H, I or M) or specialist certification (SBB, SC, SCT, SH, SI, SM or SV) AND six (6) months full time acceptable experience in immunohistochemistry (clinical, veterinary, industry or research) in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last five years; OR
Route 2: ASCP technician certification (HT, MLT) AND twelve (12) months full time acceptable experience in immunohistochemistry (clinical, veterinary, industry or research) in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last five years; OR
Route 3: Baccalaureate degree or higher from a regionally accredited college/ university, AND eighteen (18) months full time acceptable experience in immunohistochemistry (clinical, veterinary, industry or research) in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory* within the last five years.
*Laboratory accredited by AABB, CAP, COLA, DNV, Joint Commission, JCI, or under ISO 15189.
To fulfill the experience requirements for the Qualification in Immunohistochemistry, the applicant must have experience in the following areas:
- Immunohistochemical and/or Immunofluorescence Preparations
ALL of the following should have been performed by the applicant:
- Selection of proper control material
- Staining technique
- Titration of immunologic reagents
- Quality Assurance
The applicant should have participated in Quality Assurance related to ALL of the following:
- Method selection, validation, documentation
- Quality control
- Reagent selection, preparation, storage, disposal
- Safety
- Specimen fixation, processing, microtomy
Direct performance, training and/or management/supervision of IHC procedures are acceptable in meeting the experience requirements.
Use of Qualification: This Qualification will not, in itself, entitle the individual to membership in ASCP. Individuals must be ASCP certified as a technician, technologist or specialist to be eligible for ASCP membership. Individuals who have been qualified may indicate this qualification through the use of initials in the following manner:
- Mary Smith, QIHC (for individual qualified in immunohistochemistry)
- Mary Smith, HT(ASCP)QIHC (for individuals who are qualified and who are also ASCP)
Time Limits and Revalidation: Candidates who complete the qualification process, including completion of the eligibility requirements and successful completion of the 50 item online examination will receive documentation of their qualification which is valid for three years. This Qualification may be revalidated every three years upon payment of a $50 application fee and completion of 6 contact hours of acceptable continuing education / other activities in the area of the Qualification.
