Essential Functions

In accordance with Section 504 of the 1973 Vocational Rehabilitation Act, the West Virginia University Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics and Medical Laboratory Science programs have adopted minimum essential functions (technical standards) for assessment of all applicants. Because the Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics and the Master of Science degree in Medical Laboratory Science signify that the applicant has obtained minimum competencies in all areas of the clinical laboratories, it follows that graduates must have the knowledge and skills to function in a wide variety of laboratory situations and to perform a wide variety of procedures. Technological compensation can be made for some handicaps in certain of these areas but a candidate should be able to perform in a reasonably independent manner. If you believe compensation is necessary contact the WVU Office of Accessibility Services.

1. Observation: The candidate must be able to observe demonstrations, procedures and instruments in the basic sciences and clinical courses. Observation necessitates the functional use of the sense of vision and somatic sensation. It is enhanced by the functional use of the sense of smell.
2. Communication: A candidate should be able to speak, to hear, and to observe people in order to elicit information and perceive nonverbal communications. A candidate must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in oral and written form with members of the health care team.
3. Motor: Candidates should have sufficient motor function to perform laboratory procedures. This action requires the coordination of both gross and fine muscular movements, equilibrium, and functional use of the senses of touch and vision.
4. Intellectual - Conceptual, Integrative, and Quantitative Abilities: These abilities include measurement, calculation, reasoning, analysis, and synthesis. Problem solving requires all of these intellectual abilities. In addition, the candidate should be able to comprehend three dimensional relationships and to understand spatial relationships of structures.
5. Behavioral and Social Attributes: A candidate must possess the emotional health required for full utilization of his/her judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities, and the development of mature, sensitive relationships with patients. Candidates must be able to tolerate physically taxing workloads and to function effectively under stress. They must be able to adapt to changing environments, to display flexibility and to learn to function in the face of uncertainties. Compassion, integrity, concern for others, interpersonal skills, interest, and motivation are all personal qualities that should be assessed during admissions and education process.

If you have questions about these Essential Functions, please contact Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics at medlabsci@hsc.wvu.edu or 304-293-2069.