Founded in 1912, the Institute of Biomedical Science is the professional body for biomedical scientists, the largest professional group within pathology. The Institute has over 20,000 members in the UK and overseas and leads on the development of standards of education, training and professional practice for biomedical scientists, helping to ensure a safe high quality service for patients. It advises government departments and national organisations on all matters relating to biomedical science and promotes public awareness of the value of laboratory medicine. The Institute, through its accreditation of degrees and its provision of professional qualifications, exists to support its members to achieve their professional goals and provide a workforce that is educated, effective and committed to patient care.

The Royal College of Pathologists' mission is to promote excellence in the practice of pathology and to be responsible for maintaining standards through training, examinations and professional development. Pathology is a relatively young science. The first pathologists dealt with all areas of the subject, but rapid advances quickly meant that pathologists too became specialists. The Royal College of Pathologists was established in 1962 to co-ordinate this development and maintain the internationally renowned standards and reputation of British pathology.

ACB

The Association for Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine (ACB) was founded in 1953, and is one of the oldest such Associations in the world. Based in the United Kingdom, it is a professional body dedicated to the practice and promotion of clinical science. The Association has medical and non-medical members in all major UK healthcare laboratories, in many university departments and in several commercial companies. The links with its Corporate Members leads to a fruitful relationship with the clinical diagnostics industry. ACB liaises with and is consulted by many national and international organizations on issues relating to clinical biochemistry.