Medical scientists convene in Cayman

(CNS): Over 20 visiting medical technicians gather in Cayman earlier this month when the island played hot for the first time to the biannual regional council meeting of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists (CASMET). According to local officials delegates from the United States, Trinidad, Jamaica, Guyana, Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia, Bahamas and the Cayman Islands medical laboratory professionals discussed developments and activities that will positively impact standards in the region, accessibility and training, improvements in diagnostic and therapeutic laboratory testing techniques, regional professional collaboration and regulatory issues.

CASMET- an affiliate of the American Medical Technologists (AMT) – is an independent, non-governmental association representing more than 1500 medical laboratory professionals throughout the Caribbean, Central America and the Dutch Antilles.

Medical technologists, phlebotomists and laboratory assistants discussed issues of concern in their country, regional planning and advice to educational institutions, funding agencies and government ministries on the development of medical laboratory science.

Jennifer Ahearn, Chief Officer for the Ministry of Health, Environment, Youth, Sports & Culture (HEYS&C) pointed out the importance of medical technologists as they increase the capacity of “and are instrumental in health care development and patient care services, as well as
in the broader-reaching, critical role of disease control.”

CASMET provides avenues for the professional development of medical professionals by offering certifications and conducting examinations in the various disciplines of medical technology. Forums are also provided for the development and interchange of technical knowledge by hosting courses, meetings, lectures, scientific sessions and publications.

The three day conference was held at the Marriott Beach Resort 17-19 May.
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