Clinical Laboratory Personnel FAQs
Can a person receive a payment in the form of a commission or bonus from a health care professional for referring a patient to a clinical laboratory as defined in s. 483.803, F.S.?
No, payments or “kickbacks” for referring an individual to a clinical laboratory are prohibited under s. 456.054, (3)(a)(b), F.S.
Are there any exemptions that apply to clinical laboratories performing tests under certain auspices?
Yes, S. 483.801 provides that clinical laboratories owned entirely by practitioners licensed under chapters 458, 459, 460, 461, 462, 463, or 466 and performing services only for patients under their respective care, and not patients referred by another health care provider not affiliated with the provider’s work group, are exempt from regulation under Part II.
Other health care providers this exemption applies to are Advance registered nurse practitioners licensed under part I of Chapter 464 performing provider performed microscopy procedures (PPMP) and persons performing testing in laboratories within a physician office for patients who have been referred by a health care provider that is also affiliated with the respective physician office’s practice.
Do I need a license to practice in Florida, if I’m certified or registered by a national certifying board or registry?
Yes, you are required to have a state issued license to work in Florida.
How long will it take to process my application?
Your application will be processed within 30 days of receipt. You will be notified by mail or email of any deficiencies to your application
How long does the temporary license last?
Typically a temporary license will be issued for 6-8 weeks. Failure to appear for a national examination or failure of the examination voids the temporary license.
What are the specific technical areas in which I may apply for licensure?
The categories are: Microbiology, Serology/Immunology, Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Immunohematology, Histology, Cytology, Cytogenetics, Blood Banking/Immunohematology, Histocompatibility, Molecular Genetics, Andrology and Embryology.
Where can I go to receive training for this profession?
You will need to contact NAACLS to determine approved programs. INFO@naacls.org
How do I add a specialty area to my current license?
You must submit a new application, fee and supporting documents.
Why do I need to resubmit transcripts to upgrade my license?
Documents previously submitted may not be available or are not legible.
When do I need to renew my license?
By August 31st even years.
If I upgrade my license do I still need to renew?
Yes. If you do not renew your current license it will expire. A license upgrade is not considered a renewal.
How do I update my address?
You may update your address using our Online Services.
If I do not have a state license when am I eligible to work in Florida?
When your application and all supporting documents have been received by the board office, you may request a temporary license. Not all applicants are eligible to receive a temporary license. If you have taken a national exam you will be deemed ineligible to receive a temporary license.
Where can I find information discussed at the last board meeting?
Minutes and audio from board meeting can be located on the Past Meetings page.
