CMS Acceptance of DMLI(ASCP) for High Complexity Laboratory Directors

 

The Diplomate in Medical Laboratory Immunology - DMLI(ASCP) certification represents the highest level of expertise in the field of medical laboratory immunology. This doctoral-level certification affirms advanced knowledge and leadership in the discipline, supporting excellence in patient care and laboratory medicine. 

 

National Recognition and Regulatory Approval 

Effective July 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officially recognized the DMLI(ASCP) certification as a CLIA-approved board examination for high-complexity laboratory directors. This recognition affirms the credential’s importance in safeguarding quality, accuracy, and leadership in U.S. clinical laboratories. 

To review the official CMS memorandum approving DMLI(ASCP) certification, visit CMS Certification Boards.  

Examination Development and Collaboration 

The DMLI examination was developed through the dedicated efforts of the ASCP Board of Certification (BOC) Board of Governors, the ASCP BOC Executive Directors, and an ASCP BOC Examination Committee of esteemed experts over several years. Special recognition goes to: 

  • Executive Directors: Pat Tanabe, MPA, MASCP, MLS(ASCP)CM, and Amy Spiczka, DHSc, MS, HTL(ASCP)CMSCT, MBCM, CPHQ
  • Inaugural Examination Committee Members: Drs. Anne Tebo, John Schmitz, Aaruni Khanolkar, Gerry Miller, Sara Nandiwada, Tracey Bonfield, and Tom Alexander 

The American Society of Microbiology (ASM) provided foundational resources through the previously offered American Board of Medical Laboratory Immunology (ABMLI) examination question bank, with thanks to Melissa Miller and Peggy McNult for their collaboration. 

This credential was also made possible through external funding from diagnostic and grant organizations, as well as industry partners. More than $33,000 in contributions have supported the examination’s development.  

Learn More 

For full details on eligibility, application, and examination content, visit the official Diplomate in Medical Laboratory Immunology - DMLI(ASCP) certification page.