George A. Fritsma, MS, MLS, former faculty member of the M.S. in Medical Laboratory Sciences program, was presented with the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) Lifetime Achievement Award.

The ASCLS – known as the pre-eminent laboratory organization representing laboratory personnel, advancing their interests individually and collectively – gives the award to those who have “made a difference in the medical laboratory science profession.” Fritsma, who taught hematology and hemostasis in the UAB School of Health Professions from 1990 – 2007, has worked in this profession for more than 50 years.

ASCLS president-elect Pat Tille, Ph.D., called Fritsma a true professional who is respected globally by colleagues. They said he embraces collegiality, diversity, and involvement; and has dedicated his life to improving the quality of laboratory diagnostic testing. All of this led to his being awarded the lifetime honor.

Fritsma served as an editor of Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS), the official journal of the ASCLS, from 2002 – 2019. He founded, chaired, and consulted with the ASCLS Choosing Wisely Initiative, which has developed sound recommendations to health care providers regarding the use of laboratory testing to improve patient outcomes.

Previously, he coordinated the ASCLS Scientific Assemblies and the Education and Research Fund Board of Trustees. In 2012, he was chair of the American Association of Clinical Chemistry Press Board where he co-authored a series of medical laboratory Quick Guides.

In his career, he has presented more than 140 national and international scientific talks for laboratory colleagues and has published more than 100 articles, textbook chapters and textbooks, including contributions to six of the seven Rodak’s Hematology editions.

Fritsma received the award  at the ASCLS annual meeting in Providence, Rhode Island, on June 28, 2023.