Lab Matters Winter 2021 | Page 5

PRESIDENT ’ S / CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER ’ S MESSAGE
We have been telling the truth and telling the facts as we see them , and we have tried to improve the situation as much as we could .”
We have begun to add in sequencing from our current role of diagnostics and surveillance , especially with the appearance of new variants . For all intents and purposes , we believe SARS-CoV-2 will be with us for the near future , so transitioning to long-term endemic testing will also become a priority . As we glean more information from the data , testing will improve with innovations in diagnostics . To help us learn more , the association has just launched “ On the Horizon ,” a series of webinars that hope to raise awareness of new technologies , as well as initiating internal discussions about using these technologies effectively , field validation , reporting for point-of-care and home use devices , and guidance and training , among other topics .
Lastly , as you know , we have seen the dire consequences of inconsistent public health messaging . From masks to testing to vaccines , it is our fervent hope that the practices of the past can be set aside and the protection of the public can be made paramount . We have been telling the truth and telling the facts as we see them , and we have tried to improve the situation as much as we could . History is important for us , and the fact is that the history of public health funding has been on a roller coaster . COVID-19 has taught the public about the critical need for a consistent , sustained public health infrastructure and steady funding for public health programs everywhere . Much like preparing for a major snowstorm , foundations for preparedness matter . n
Scott Becker , MS Chief Executive Officer , APHL
APHL
Winter 2021 LAB MATTERS 3