ASCP's Washington office received a letter from President George Bush thanking medical laboratory professionals whose "efforts contribute to a healthier future for our Nation and help save countless lives." It's the sixth consecutive year that ASCP received a congratulatory letter from the president regarding Lab Week.

National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week is a chance for medical laboratory personnel to celebrate their professionalism and be recognized for their efforts. Since laboratorians often work behind the scenes, few people know much about the critical testing they perform every day.

As you know, doctors rely heavily on lab tests to make diagnoses, thus laboratory professionals are critical components of the health care system. Results of laboratory tests often identify the presence of disease in its earliest stages, when the possibilities of a cure are greatest and when treatment is least costly.

Yet, despite the important roles laboratory professionals play, and increasing demands for laboratory services, the profession is undergoing stress. In its most recent survey of laboratory wages and vacancies, ASCP reported that nearly 44% of laboratories report they are currently experiencing difficulties recruiting or hiring medical laboratory personnel. There are several reasons for the lab worker shortage, including rising retirement numbers among laboratory technicians, fewer schools of laboratory technology and the corollary decrease in the number of graduates.

This letter from the White House validates the incredible work done by laboratory professionals across the country and all over the world.

The entire text of the President's message follows:

April 17, 2008

I send greetings to those observing National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week.

Across our Nation, medical laboratory professionals are meeting the needs of the sick and bringing hope to patients and their loved ones. National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week is an opportunity to recognize the dedicated men and women who help detect and prevent disease, monitor treatments, and deliver the best care to our citizens. These efforts contribute to a healthier future for our Nation and help save countless lives.

I appreciate the skill and dedication of our Nation’s medical laboratory professionals. Your efforts reflect the innovative and compassionate spirit of America.

Laura and I send our best wishes.

George W. Bush