IFCC

The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) is a global non-governmental federation of national societies and professional groups in clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine. It serves as a platform for scientists, clinicians, and technologists to advance the science and practice of laboratory medicine worldwide.

Its aims include promoting excellence in laboratory medicine through education, training, quality assurance, and the harmonization of analytical procedures. It develops and disseminates recommendations, guidelines, and reference materials, and coordinates research collaborations and educational programs.

The organization is composed of member societies from many countries and operates through committees and working groups focusing on areas such as standardization, reference materials, education, and communications. It convenes and coordinates international congresses and meetings, including the World Congress of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine.

The IFCC collaborates with international standardization bodies such as ISO and with organizations like the World Health Organization to advance standardization of measurement procedures, reference methods, and terminology used in clinical labs.

The federation originated in the 20th century as an organization dedicated to clinical chemistry and later broadened its scope to include broader laboratory medicine, adopting the current name to reflect this expanded remit. It continues to publish reports, position statements, and educational resources and to support global harmonization and quality improvement in laboratory testing.