Biomedical Science Day

Biomedical Science Day is an annual event that celebrates the expertise and commitment of professionals in the field. The campaign shines a spotlight on the crucial role biomedical science plays in research, diagnosis, and treatment. In this article, we’ll delve into the significance of Biomedical Science Day and explore why it matters.

What is Biomedical Science?

Biomedical science is a wide-ranging field that forms the foundation of much of modern medicine. It explores human biology, health, and disease, examining the complex functions of organs, cells, and systems to enhance our understanding of the body. 

The Importance of Biomedical Science in Healthcare

Biomedical science is essential in diagnosing and treating diseases, serving as the cornerstone for medical breakthroughs and advancements in healthcare. It drives the development of new treatments and preventive measures, shaping the future of medicine.

Biomedical science professionals play a crucial role in healthcare laboratories, where they analyse patient fluids and tissue samples to diagnose diseases and evaluate treatment effectiveness. Their work is fundamental to modern medicine, with pathology results supporting 70% of diagnoses within the NHS.

What Does a Biomedical Scientist Do?

Biomedical scientists play a key role in researching diagnostic tools, understanding the causes of diseases, and working to enhance healthcare. They are often responsible for managing laboratories, ensuring they adhere to health and safety regulations, and maintaining high standards of practice. As part of their work, they participate in External Quality Assessment (EQA) programs, which help ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results by comparing performance across different labs.

Biomedical scientists will generally specialise in one of the following: 

• Blood sciences 
• Infectious sciences 
• Cell sciences 
• Genetics and Molecular pathology 

What is Biomedical Science Day?

Biomedical Science Day is celebrated annually to raise awareness of the vital work carried out by our biomedical science professionals. Each year, the event brings people together to showcase laboratory achievements, share groundbreaking advancements, and highlight the essential role biomedical scientists play in healthcare.

The History of Biomedical Science Day

Biomedical Science Day was first established in May 2017 by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). Following research and feedback from IBMS members, they discovered that many biomedical science professionals felt their contributions and hard work were not being properly recognised or celebrated.

The IBMS chose to celebrate Biomedical Science Day on the birthdate of their founder, Albert Norman, as a tribute to his legacy. The inaugural theme focused on celebrating and promoting the diverse roles of their members, highlighting the wide range of contributions made by biomedical science professionals across various fields.

How to Participate in Biomedical Science Day

There are multiple ways to get involved with Biomedical Science Day, including: 

• Explore and participate in local events - Check if hospitals, universities, or research institutions are hosting talks, lab tours, or open days, or organise your own event to raise awareness.
• Engage and advocate on social media - Share insights about biomedical science on Twitter, LinkedIn, or Instagram using hashtags like #BiomedicalScienceDay to educate and inspire others.
• Expand your knowledge through webinars and workshops - Attend free or low-cost webinars and workshops to learn from experts, and network with professionals in the field.
• Promote biomedical science in your workplace - Set up informational displays, host a talk, or collaborate with colleagues to highlight the vital role of biomedical science in healthcare.

The Role of EQA in Biomedical Science

EQA plays a crucial role in maintaining the accuracy, reliability, and consistency of laboratory testing in biomedical science. This system allows laboratories to regularly evaluate their test results by comparing them against standardised benchmarks and those of other laboratories. 

By identifying discrepancies and areas for improvement, EQA helps ensure that testing methods remain precise and dependable. As a cornerstone of biomedical science, EQA upholds the highest standards in laboratory diagnostics, ultimately contributing to more accurate diagnoses, effective treatments, and improved patient outcomes.

EQA at UK NEQAS IIA

At UK NEQAS IIA, we provide independent EQA services to laboratories worldwide, helping to enhance skills and improve healthcare quality. In addition to our EQA programs, we offer a range of valuable resources through our Digital Academy. To learn more, don’t hesitate to contact us today!