Well said, Gayle.
And, as for the pathologist to oversee the lab,  the ASCP statement is
"under the supervision of a pathologist(certified by ...), or an
appropriately certified medical scientist." And, of course, with so many of
our numbers now in research/veterinary-focused labs, there are many
applicants for the HT/HTL exams that qualify under that "appropriately
certified medical scientist" avenue.

Animal tissue is acceptable for the practical examination tissue, as long as
it meets all the requirements; and yes, there are "experts" at the grading
session who assist the graders who are not so familiar with other species'
tissues.

Good luck to ALL who aspire to ASCP certification!

Glenda F. Hoye, B.S., HT(ASCP)
Histotechnology Program Director
Indiana University School of Allied Health Sciences
Indianapolis, IN 46202-5119
317-278-1599


-----Original Message-----
From: Gayle Callis [mailto:uvsgc@msu.oscs.montana.edu]
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 1999 3:43 PM
To: histonet@pathology.swmed.edu
Subject: certification


One can certainly take the HT/HTL in research/veterinary areas and I did
HTL without anyone supervising me, other than a DVM pathologist who
looked at the slides, he only oohhhh and aaahhhh'd.  Everything was sent off
without a hitch, and passed without incident.    My HT was done in
a hospital lab situation, pathologists were available, but could have
been done in a veterinary situation just as easily.

I fulfulled all certification requirements, and know that there are several
individuals who read the practical portion who are well versed in just
animal histology/tissues. As far as identification of tissues/stains on
test, if they still do that, there are some easily acquired histology text
books, not too expensive, one should have on hand in a lab daily.

I found testing directions very specific and easy to follow, plus it
taught me a disipline in some histotechnics that have stayed with me to
this day.  If you follow directions to the letter and have some help with
looking at finished slides, you should pass the test nicely.  Remember,
the Histonet is there to help you along the way!

Good luck, don't be intimidated, go for it --- it pays off in the end

Gayle Callis