IQMH brings together experts in the field of laboratory medicine to elevate confidence in the healthcare system.

The IQMH Proficiency Testing Scientific Committees are composed of physicians, technologists and scientists who provide advice to IQMH regarding the fundamental design of Proficiency Testing surveys and ensure that clinically-relevant selection of challenges and appropriate performance evaluation are developed and implemented each year.

IQMH is grateful for the commitment and support of the medical laboratory community and appreciates all the volunteers who donate their time and valuable expertise to our programs.

It’s our privilege to recognize Paul M. Yip, PhD, FCACB, DABCC, who has served IQMH as a volunteer since 2009.

Paul M. Yip, PhD, FCACB, DABCC

Dr. Paul M. Yip graduated from the University of Toronto in Biochemistry followed by the Postdoctoral Training Program in Clinical Chemistry. He was then board certified by the Canadian Academy of Clinical Biochemistry and the American Board of Clinical Chemistry. Dr. Yip began his career at the University Health Network in Toronto. After 13 wonderful years at UHN, Dr. Yip took on the position of Division Head of Biochemistry and POCT (Point-of-Care Testing) at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in 2018. He is also appointed to the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology at the University of Toronto.

We asked Dr. Yip the following questions about his volunteer experience and here's how he responded:

Which committee do you volunteer on and in which capacity?

I began my participation with IQMH (at the time QMP–LS) in 2009 as a member of the Chemistry and Enzymes Scientific Committee and had the privilege to serve as Committee Chair in 2017. It was an excellent decade when I had a chance to work with some of the best laboratory professionals from across the province and even outside of Ontario! Our team published numerous IQMH reviews, presented posters at national and international conferences, and led scientific workshops on quality assurance in Chemistry. You can find these posters on the IQMH Resources webpage. The IQMH staff were always supportive, whether directly or behind the scenes to get the job done.

Do you volunteer in any other capacity on other committees with professional organizations?

I’m active in many organizations including the Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists (CSCC) and American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC). Education plays such an important role to keep people engaged and knowledgeable on the latest science in laboratory medicine. Volunteering is a great way to meet other professionals and learn from their experiences. It’s also a fun and productive way to contribute outside of regular work. 

Do you have any achievements that you are particularly proud of? Has your committee contributed to quality improvements in some way?

I’m particularly proud of the IQMH forums on point-of-care testing (POCT) where I had the opportunity to help plan and participate in the event. Laboratorians have a huge role in shaping POCT and the Chemistry Committee specifically has been able to improve practices, most recently related to glucose meter testing. I completed my term at the end of 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite a challenging year due to pandemic measures, I witnessed the dedication and resilience of healthcare workers, including those in the laboratory. Volunteering takes commitment, and I’ve found everyone who is connected with IQMH shares in the commitment to quality.