Relationship among job market, higher education and professionals in the clinical analysis area in Brazil

Abstract

Clinical analysis, as the laboratory medicine area is known in Brazil, plays a strategic role in healthcare in the country, supporting diagnosis, therapeutic monitoring, and epidemiological surveillance. This article aims to analyse the relationship among the job market, higher education, and clinical analysis professionals in Brazil. Despite a vast network of 28,000 laboratories, the sector faces challenges such as outdated test remuneration, regional inequalities, and a shortage of qualified professionals. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted these weaknesses but also accelerated regulatory advances, including pharmacy-based testing. Professional training is fragmented, with pharmacists, biomedical scientists, biologists, and clinical pathologists contributing differently to the area. However, heterogeneity in curricula, limited practical training, and the dominance of private higher education compromise quality. The Brazilian Society of Clinical Analysis (SBAC) promotes programs for knowledge, quality control, and accreditation, playing a vital role in expanding access and reducing inequalities. Future perspectives emphasize standardized curricula, improved laboratory training, innovation, and fairer career policies to attract and retain professionals. Strengthening collaboration among universities, professional societies, and health institutions is crucial to align education with national healthcare needs.