1. Introduction & Scope

This Membership Policy outlines the principles, procedures, rights, and obligations governing all members of the Pakistan Medical Lab Professionals Association (PMLPA). It operates in conjunction with the PMLPA Constitution and Bylaws. By applying for membership, individuals agree to abide by the terms set forth in this policy.

2. Membership Categories

PMLPA offers membership based on academic qualifications and professional scope:

  • Medical Lab Scientist (MLS): For professionals holding a Doctor of Medical Laboratory Sciences (DMLS), MBBS, PharmD (with clinical logbook and one year of experience), DVM, or a BS/BSc (Hons) in Medical Laboratory Technology (4-5 years program).
  • Medical Lab Technologist (MLT): For professionals holding a BSc in MLT (3-4 years), BS/BSc in relevant fields (Biochemistry, Microbiology, etc.), or D.Pharm with relevant experience.
  • Medical Lab Technician (MLTn): For professionals holding a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (DMLT) or equivalent.

3. Membership Registration Process

  1. Online Application: All prospective members must complete the official online Registration Form available on the PMLPA website.
  2. Document Submission: Applicants must upload clear, scanned copies of all required documents (CNIC, photographs, degree/diploma certificates, and experience certificates) through the form.
  3. Application Review: The PMLPA Membership Committee will review each application for verification of credentials. This process may take up to 10 business days.
  4. Approval Notification: Upon successful review, the applicant will receive an approval notification via email, along with an invoice for the membership fee.
  5. Fee Payment:
    • Payment must be made securely online via the Stripe payment gateway linked in the invoice.
    • Membership is activated only upon successful receipt of payment.
  6. Confirmation: Once payment is confirmed, the new member will receive a digital PMLPA Membership Certificate and a welcome email containing essential information.

4. Membership Fees and Validity

  • Initial Registration: Membership is granted for a period of two (2) years from the date of approval.
  • Fee Structure:
    • Medical Lab Scientist: Rs. 25,000 for two years.
    • Medical Lab Technologist: Rs. 18,000 for two years.
    • Medical Lab Technician: Rs. 12,000 for two years.
  • All fees are non-refundable.

5. Membership Renewal

  1. Renewal Notice: Members will receive renewal reminders via email and WhatsApp 60 days and 30 days before their membership expiry date.
  2. Renewal Process: There is no automated renewal portal. To renew, members must:
    • Visit the PMLPA website and navigate to the “Contact Us” page.
    • Submit a renewal request by selecting the subject “Membership Renewal” and providing their full name, CNIC number, and membership ID.
    • The PMLPA administration will verify the details and send a secure payment link for the renewal fee via email.
  3. Renewal Fee: The annual renewal fee after the initial two-year period is:
    • Medical Lab Scientist: Rs. 10,000 per year.
    • Medical Lab Technologist: Rs. 8,000 per year.
    • Medical Lab Technician: Rs. 5,000 per year.
  4. Lapsed Membership: If a membership is not renewed within 30 days after the expiry date, it will be considered lapsed. Reinstatement may require a new application and payment of the initial registration fee.

6. Communication Channels

As PMLPA does not operate a dedicated online member portal, primary official communication will be conducted through:

  • Official Email: Newsletters, important announcements, and official documents will be sent to the email address provided during registration.
  • WhatsApp Broadcasts: Urgent updates, event invitations, and meeting notices will be shared via designated WhatsApp groups or broadcast lists.

Members are responsible for ensuring their contact details are up-to-date by notifying the association via the “Contact Us” page.

7. Rights and Benefits of Members

Upon active membership, individuals are entitled to:

  • Receive a digital PMLPA Membership Certificate.
  • Use the designated post-nominal title (e.g., PMLPA-MLS).
  • Attend all PMLPA events, workshops, and conferences at member-discounted rates.
  • Receive continuous professional development (CPD) credits through PMLPA activities.
  • Access exclusive resources and guidelines shared via email.
  • Vote in general body elections (as per the Constitution).
  • Stand for elections to the Executive Committee (subject to specific criteria).

8. Code of Conduct and Obligations

All members must:

  • Adhere to the PMLPA Code of Ethical Conduct.
  • Uphold the professional integrity of the medical laboratory field.
  • Not misuse the name or logo of PMLPA for personal or commercial gain without authorization.
  • Inform PMLPA promptly of any change in professional status or contact information.
  • Respect the decisions of the elected Executive Committee.

9. Termination of Membership

Membership may be terminated or suspended for the following reasons:

  • Non-payment of membership fees after the grace period.
  • Violation of the PMLPA Constitution, Bylaws, or Code of Conduct.
  • Conviction for a criminal offense that brings the profession into disrepute.
  • Submission of fraudulent documents during registration.

A member facing termination has the right to appeal, as outlined in the separate Appeals Policy.

10. Policy Amendments

PMLPA reserves the right to amend this membership policy. All members will be notified of any changes via email at least 30 days before they come into effect.

For any queries related to membership, please contact us through the Contact Us page.