If you're a professional in the clinical laboratory field, you've likely marked the American Society for Clinical Pathology’s (ASCP) KnowledgeLab 2024 on your calendar. It's the place to be for anyone involved in clinical diagnostics and laboratory management to find out the latest and greatest in medical lab technology. 

Whether you're a first-time attendee or a returning participant looking to update your KnowledgeLab game plan, our comprehensive event guide is here to help you navigate the event as soon as you get to San Antonio.

What is KnowledgeLab?

KnowledgeLab is the premier gathering for current and future laboratory leaders, attracting clinical laboratory professionals from all over the country. It serves as a critical hub for professionals looking to advance their knowledge and skills in laboratory management, while also providing an excellent opportunity for networking, learning about new technologies, and hearing from industry leaders on future trends in laboratory science.

Where and When is KnowledgeLab 2024 Being Held? 

This year, ASCP is hosting it in the beautiful and historic city of San Antonio at the Hilton Palacio Del Rio, situated right on the picturesque River Walk. Scheduled for April 30th to May 1st, this event promises two impactful days of learning, networking, and leadership development.

Here are some key details on registration and hotels:

• Hotel: For this event, the venue – the Hilton Palacio Del Rio – also serves as the hotel for anyone participating, making it super easy to get where you need to go in the morning. Enjoy a discounted rate of $239/night when you book through the conference, and stay where the action is.
• Registration: Still open! ASCP Members can register for $559, while non-members can register for the event for $659. Secure your spot to access all sessions, keynotes, and special events.

Why Attend KnowledgeLab?

KnowledgeLab is more than just a conference – it's a career-enhancing experience that promises interactions with some of our industry’s greatest minds. If you haven’t booked your ticket just yet, here’s why you should consider attending:

• Learn from Leaders: Gain insights from over 30+ industry experts like Dana Powell Baker, Ed.D., and Rodney E. Rohde, Ph.D., who will share strategies and innovations in laboratory management.
  Interactive Sessions: Engage in discussions on crucial topics such as Quality Management, Compliance, Information Technology, and more, which are essential for today’s lab professionals.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers and industry leaders to share ideas, challenges, and success stories, creating valuable relationships that last beyond the conference.

We promise you…attending KnowledgeLab will be one for the books. Don’t miss it!

4 Tips to Make the Most of Your KnowledgeLab Experience

For those on board the KnowledgeLab 2024 train (*choo choo*), you’re likely starting to plan your agenda and ensure you are making the most of your time in San Antonio. The Puritan team couldn’t be more excited to be part of this event, and we wanted to share a few key tips that we’ve found to help maximize your busy time on the ground.

Tip #1: Plan Out Your Must-See KnowledgeLab Sessions

As you gear up for KnowledgeLab 2024, we encourage mapping out the presentations that align with your professional interests and organizational goals. The Puritan team is eager to participate and absorb insights from a host of compelling sessions, including:

• Opening Keynote by Dana Powell Baker: "Inclusive Laboratory Leadership in a Post-Pandemic Era" – April 30, 9:00 AM. This session promises to set a forward-thinking tone for the conference, focusing on leadership in changing times, which is crucial for adapting our strategies in swab production and our customer’s usage.
• General Session Highlight: "Let's get to work! Applying the ASCP's Negotiation & Advocacy Toolbox to Advocate for your Laboratory's Needs" – April 30, 3:55 PM. Understanding advocacy and negotiation will enhance our approach to navigating the complex regulatory and business environments affecting swab technologies.
• Closing Session by Melody Boudreaux Nelson: "A New Frontier: Artificial Intelligence in Laboratory Medicine" – May 1, 3:45 PM. AI's impact on laboratory medicine can directly influence the development and application of diagnostic technologies, including those involving swabs.

By pinpointing the sessions that are most relevant to you and your work, you can ensure a productive and informative experience at KnowledgeLab 2024. Here’s a link to the full agenda so you can plan out an itinerary that works best for you.

Tip #2: Pack for Warm Weather (and Highly Air Conditioned Conference Rooms)

After a long winter, we couldn’t be more excited for some warmer weather that San Antonio offers. It's essential to pack smartly to accommodate both the hot outdoor temperatures and the cool indoor climates of conference rooms. Here are a few things on our conference packing list that we wanted to share with you:

• Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Opt for clothes made from light materials like cotton or linen. These fabrics are perfect for staying cool and comfortable while exploring San Antonio’s outdoor attractions.
• Layers are Key: While the outside may be warm, conference halls can be notably cooler. Pack a sweater or a light jacket that you can easily put on or take off depending on the temperature.
• Comfortable Footwear: You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, whether it’s touring the city or navigating the large venue of the conference. Bring comfortable shoes for walking long distances. Consider a pair for outdoor exploration and another suitable for indoor, professional environments.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial in warm weather. Carry a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day, keeping you hydrated both indoors and outdoors.

Tip #3: Make a List of Must-See Things in San Antonio

Attending a conference isn't just about learning and networking – it's also an opportunity to explore and enjoy a new city. San Antonio, with its rich history and vibrant culture, offers plenty to see and do, especially near the iconic River Walk where KnowledgeLab 2024 is hosted. 

Here are some must-see attractions and experiences to consider during your stay:

• The Alamo: No visit to San Antonio is complete without a trip to The Alamo, one of the most historic sites in the United States. Just a short walk from the River Walk, this former mission and fortress compound, famous for the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, offers a glimpse into Texas history.
• San Antonio Missions National Historical Park: A bit further afield but absolutely worth the visit, this park preserves four of the five Spanish frontier missions in San Antonio. These missions are beautiful examples of architecture and symbols of the city’s early history.
• La Villita Historic Arts Village: Located on the south bank of the San Antonio River, La Villita is one of the city's first neighborhoods. Today, it's a thriving art community boasting unique shops, galleries, and restaurants.
• River Walk Cruise: Take a relaxing boat ride along the River Walk itself. These cruises offer a fantastic way to learn about the rich history of San Antonio’s river while enjoying the city’s beautiful scenery and outdoors.
• San Fernando Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is one of the oldest active cathedrals in the United States and serves as a cultural and spiritual center of San Antonio.
• Market Square (El Mercado): Experience the largest Mexican market in the U.S. where you can find an array of goods from traditional Mexican crafts to delicious Tex-Mex food.
• The Pearl Brewery: This iconic brewing company has transformed into a vibrant neighborhood of shops, fine dining, and entertainment. The Pearl is also known for its farmers market, where you can sample local food and products.

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or someone who enjoys leisurely explorations, San Antonio's River Walk area has something to offer.

Tip #4: Get to Know the Puritan Team at KnowledgeLab 2024

Visit us at our booth to discover the latest advancements in laboratory technologies and solutions. Our team will be there to discuss how our products can support and enhance your laboratory operations.

Why is Puritan Attending KnowledgeLab?

Puritan is committed to advancing clinical laboratory practices and enhancing patient care. Attending KnowledgeLab offers us the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, stay updated on the latest trends and innovations, and share our expertise in high-quality lab solutions.

“Our team looks forward to this event every year,” said Virginia Templet, Marketing Director for Puritan Medical Products.” We encourage anyone in this industry who wants to connect with us about the latest in specimen collection and transport offerings to reach out to us ahead of the conference and schedule some time to sit down with our team. We look forward to seeing you in Texas!”

See You at KnowledgeLab 2024

Whether you're looking to advance your career, learn about the latest industry trends, or connect with fellow leaders, KnowledgeLab 2024 offers it all. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to grow professionally and personally in one of the most vibrant cities in Texas.

To learn more about Puritan Medical Products ahead of the event, visit our website or get in touch with one of our friendly sales associates.