Thank you for hosting the very first AAVLD / NVSL Diagnostic Summer Symposium

The overwhelming response to the inaugural AAVLD/NVSL Symposium is a testament to the community's commitment to advancing veterinary diagnostics and laboratory services. The rapid filling of available spaces underscores the high level of interest and the importance of this event in the professional calendar. As an annual fixture, the symposium promises to be a cornerstone for ongoing education, collaboration, and innovation in the field. Participants are encouraged to stay engaged and watch for the announcement of next year's symposium details. Those interested should prepare to respond promptly, as this event's popularity suggests that spaces will continue to be in high demand. The organizers are grateful for the enthusiasm and are dedicated to providing an enriching and informative experience with each subsequent symposium.

The purpose of the AAVLD/NVSL Summer Diagnostic Symposium is directed at AHDL and NAHLN bench diagnostic scientists.  The topic of this first diagnostic scientist symposium will be Molecular Diagnostics.  It will include overview presentations by subject matter experts on the latest molecular diagnostic technologies, feedback on how to approach and troubleshoot inconsistent test results, the logistics of developing high throughput testing capabilities, interlaboratory cooperation and spreading of the workload, and tabletop exercises.  This first symposium may produce a model for subsequent annual seminars of the same type and purpose on various subjects.

A well-developed AHDL workforce is vital for the national defense of the food supply and the US animal agriculture industry. A vast majority of the US AHDL workforce comprises Federal or State employees, and a vast majority of laboratories are accredited by and cooperate with the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD) professional association. The mission of the AAVLD is to advance the quality of all diagnostic disciplines represented in AHDLs and ensure quality laboratory operations that produce reliable data for maintaining animal health and public health.

An active MOU has existed between the AAVLD and NVSL since 2001 and has been renewed regularly (APHIS No. 22-9419-0577-MU).  In that MOU the partners are charged to develop a national strategy to ensure quality animal health diagnostic services in the US.  The creation of the NAHLN was the first action item to achieve that charge.  Because of AAVLD’s experience with and representation of the state AHDLs in the NAHLN (about 60 state laboratories), AAVLD is well-positioned to lead and coordinate the development of a robust strategic plan to address current AHDL workforce needs.

While AHDL employees at all levels are important, continuing education of bench-level diagnostic scientists and developing enhanced operational coordination/efficiencies are the expected benefits of this cooperative agreement.