Study on the Unification of the Clinical Laboratory Science Curriculum into a Four-year Program and Institutionalization Strategies: Policy Proposals for the Future Healthcare Environment

This paper argues for unifying the academic system of clinical laboratory science and proposes policy measures to enhance the professionalism and professional competencies of clinical laboratory scientists amid the rapidly changing healthcare environment.Currently, clinical laboratory science education operates under a dual-track system, which has led to various issues such as unequal educational opportunities, disparities in professional competency, limitations in clinical practicum experiences, and a decline in social perception.As cutting-edge medical technologies and the changes driven by the Fourth Industrial Revolution reshape the healthcare landscape, clinical laboratory scientists are increasingly required to possess advanced expertise and interdisciplinary capabilities, underscoring the need to restructure the academic system.Based on an analysis of the shortcomings of the current system, this study suggests specific policy and institutional measures, including the revision of the Higher Education Act to promote legal integration, standardization of curricula, professional competency enhancement, expansion of accreditation and educational evaluation roles, financial and administrative support, and transitional education for existing personnel.Unification of the academic system is expected to enhance the quality of education, strengthen future interdisciplinary competencies, elevate the social status of clinical laboratory scientists, and improve international competitiveness.