menu
menu
Consider the following guidelines/ground rules to facilitate effective outcomes and meetings.
Actively participate in the work of the committee* or board. Volunteers should have ASCP BOC’s best interests in mind rather than individual interests. Treat all volunteers and BOC team members with respect.
We recognize unforeseen circumstances can arise. We recommend in-person attendance, as applicable. Often, committee and board meetings take place 1-2 times over the course of a year, and we aim to provide an advanced schedule for travel/planning purposes. The ASCP BOC also offers the option of an additional hotel night to accommodate attendance and support engagement.
Review the meeting materials including the agenda which details the topics for discussion.
Board and committee members should abide by the ASCP BOC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality acceptance forms that are signed annually. The ASCP BOC Code of Conduct provides uniform rules of conduct for all ASCP BOC volunteers to reinforce the expectation that all individuals participating in ASCP BOC activities are treated professionally, and with respect at all times. All volunteers should be aware of potential conflicts of interest and act honestly and carefully. Conflicts may exist when your loyalties are divided between ASCP BOC interests and your other interests. For example, a conflict may exist when you deliberate on an issue while, at the same time, have professional business or volunteer responsibilities for other organizations or institutions that could predispose or impartially bias your resolution of the issue. If this occurs, let the meeting chair or staff liaison know. Usually, refraining from participating in the discussion will be sufficient to neutralize any potential conflict of interest.
To encourage candid and wide-ranging discussion that supports diversity of thought, volunteers should treat all discussions as confidential until there has been public disclosure or authorization to disclose. Do not be afraid or hesitate to ask if a topic can be shared with the organizations, colleagues, or communities of interest.
Every committee is comprised of a team of subject matter expert volunteers and the ASCP BOC team members. Everyone should have an opportunity to speak. You may be asked to share what you think, or the chair (or other leader(s)) may ask for comments from someone who hasn’t spoken yet. It is always okay to “pass” or decline but know your insights are essential. Value the wisdom of the contributors, listen to all vantage points, and do not focus on the opinions of a few individuals. Keep an open mind. No single person should dominate the discussion. It is okay to disagree.
Be objective and balanced. Consider that every topic has strengths, opportunities, and potential barriers. The purpose of the meeting is to hear diverse points of view and to explore multiple options, ideas, and possible outcomes.
Listen to understand what is being said and never be afraid to ask questions. All of us bring information and ideas that may contribute to insights and innovation. People are more likely to participate and give their best effort when they know they are respected. Be respectful to others, as you would expect the same from yourself. Keep an open mind to reach a good decision that everyone can support, even if some degree of compromise is required.
Ask timely and substantive questions at the meetings, consistent with your conscience and convictions. The ASCP BOC is a federation of laboratory professionals and pathologists who may disagree during a meeting but should present a united front outside the meeting room.
Please refrain from phone-surfing the internet and/or answering emails during the meeting. If you need to take a call or send emails, please do so outside of the meeting setting (virtual or in-person).
The important, valuable work of the Board of Certification can only be accomplished through the dedication, meaningful insights, and hard work of its valued volunteers. The ASCP BOC team members are available to assist you in your volunteer duties. Never hesitate to ask for assistance or make suggestions for the betterment of the ASCP BOC and the services they provide.
*For the purposes of this document any reference to a committee can mean any of the following: BOG standing committee, examination committee, work group, sub-committee, or task force.