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The Lab 177 form is an essential document for renewing personnel clinical laboratory licenses and certificates in California. This form outlines the continuing education requirements that licensed individuals must fulfill during each renewal cycle. Specifically, it requires laboratory professionals, such as Clinical Laboratory Scientists, Cytotechnologists, and Medical Laboratory Technicians, to complete a set number of continuing education hours—24 hours for most professionals and 6 hours for phlebotomists—every two years. In addition to documenting the completion of these hours, applicants must provide several details, including the date of issue from the accrediting agency, course title, and contact hours received. The renewals must be submitted at least 60 days before the current license period expires and are processed in the order received, emphasizing the importance of timely submissions. Details regarding renewal fees are available through a designated public health website. It is also crucial for applicants to retain their continuing education records for a minimum of four years, as random audits are conducted by the Department of Public Health. Any changes in personal information, such as name or address, must be communicated within 30 days to ensure accurate record-keeping. By adhering to these requirements and accurately completing the Lab 177 form, laboratory professionals can maintain compliance and continue their vital work in public health.

Lab 177 Example

State of California—Health and Human Services Agency

California Department of Public Health

RENEWAL – PERSONNEL CLINICAL LABORATORY LICENSE/CERTIFICAT

CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Each person licensed under Division 2, Chapter 3 of the California Business and Professions Code (BPC), commencing with Section 1200, whose license or certificate is in active status must complete the required continuing education hours.

At the time of renewal, you must provide the Department with the date of issue on certificate, California approved accrediting agency number (AA number) and name, program title, course number, and number of contact hours received for each continuing education program you have successfully completed. Please complete and return the Continuing Education Activity Summary (on the back of this page).

NOTE: Submit the renewal application with the CE Activity Summary and renewal fee. The renewal fee can be found on

the following website: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OSPHLD/LFS/CDPH%20Document%20Library/A-License-FeeSchedules.pdf

Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations, section 1031.5, requires a license or certificate to be renewed by filing a renewal application at least 60 days prior to the end of the license or certificate period.

Please note: LFS does not accept applications, renewals, or inquiries in person at the Richmond office. Applications must be sent by mail. Inquiries can be submitted by email [email protected] or by telephone (510-620-3800). Applications are processed in the order in which they are received.

CE requirements (California Business and Professions Code section 1260)

Directors, Cytotechnologists, Clinical Laboratory Scientists, and Medical Laboratory Technicians: O 24 CE hours per 2-year renewal cycle

Phlebotomists:

O6 CE hours per 2-year renewal cycle

You must retain for a minimum of four years the continuing education documents received from providers approved under the California Code of Regulations, Title 17, section 1038.4. Do not forward such documents to the department unless you are instructed to do so.

A number of renewal applications will be audited by the department each year. A notice will be sent by mail to those who are selected.

Regulations require that you notify this office by email WITHIN 30 DAYS of any change of name or address. Send notification to Laboratory Field Services at [email protected]. Please put “Change of Address” in the subject line.

PLEASE PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

Name: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

Daytime telephone number: _______________________ Home telephone number: _____________________________

E-mail address (if available): _________________________________________________________________________

Laboratory Field Services

(510)620-3800 (510) 620-3692 FAX [email protected] Internet Address: www.cdph.ca.gov/lfs

LAB 177 A (revised 3/16)

Page 1 of 2

State of California – Health and Human Services Agency

California Department of Public Health

 

Laboratory Field Services

RENEWAL – CLINICAL LABORATORY PERSONNEL LICENSE/CERTIFICATE

CONTINUING EDUCATION ACTIVITY SUMMARY

Return to:

California Department of Public Health

Please write your license or certificate number on your check.

 

Accounting Section / Cashiering Unit

 

 

 

 

MS 1601 P. O. Box 997376

 

 

 

 

 

Sacramento, CA 95899-7376

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name

 

 

License/Certificate Number

 

Phone – Daytime

Phone – Alternate

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mailing Address (number, street)

 

City

 

State

ZIP Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

Email address (if available)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is this a change of name or address since the last renewal?

Yes

No

 

Since the last renewal have you been convicted of any felonies or misdemeanors other than minor traffic violations?

Yes No

If yes, provide a statement of explanation on a supplementary sheet.

DO NOT SEND ORIGINAL OR COPIES OF YOUR CERTIFICATES OR TRANSCRIPTS WITH THIS RENEWAL.

If you are randomly selected for audit, the Department will request you to send copies of your certificates or transcripts.

You MUST complete the question above and sign on the signature line below to certify the authenticity of your CE courses.

Section 1: ACCREDITING AGENCY APPROVED COURSES

List all required information found on the CE certificate issued by the California Continuing Education Accrediting Agency after successfully completing the course. Record only the CE units earned since the last renewal period. (Use a supplementary sheet if necessary.)

Date of Issue on

Calif. AA

CE Certificate

Number

 

 

Program Title

Accrediting Agency Name

Course Number

CE Units

Section 2: COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY LEVEL COURSES

List all successfully completed accredited college or university courses relevant to clinical laboratory science scope of practice since the last renewal period. (Use a supplementary sheet if necessary.)

College or University

Course Number and Title

Semester /

Quarter Units

Course Dates

from / to

I attest that I have taken the current courses listed above and have certificates in my possession to verify successful completion of the continuing education courses listed in Section 1 or an official transcript for the courses from an accredited college or university listed in Section 2. I understand that I am responsible for maintaining these legal documents for four years.

Warning: Failure to provide complete information may result in delay in processing your license/certification renewal.

Signature: __________________________________________________

Date: ______________________________

 

 

Laboratory Field Services

(510)620-3800 (510) 620-3692 FAX [email protected] Internet Address: www.cdph.ca.gov/lfs

LAB 177 B (revised 3/16)

Page 2 of 2

File Breakdown

Fact Name Details
Governing Law The Lab 177 form is governed by the California Business and Professions Code, Division 2, Chapter 3, starting with Section 1200.
License Renewal Application Renewal applications must be submitted at least 60 days before the license expires.
Continuing Education Requirement Licensed professionals must complete specific continuing education hours: 24 hours for Clinical Laboratory Scientists every two years; 6 hours for Phlebotomists.
Application Submission Applications must be mailed. In-person submissions at the Richmond office are not accepted.
CE Document Retention Keep continuing education documents for a minimum of four years. Do not send them unless instructed.
Change Notification If you change your name or address, email the department within 30 days to notify them.
Renewal Fee Information The renewal fee can be found on the California Department of Public Health website.

Guide to Using Lab 177

Completing the Lab 177 form is essential for ensuring that your clinical laboratory license or certificate remains active. After you fill out this form, you'll submit it along with required documentation of your continuing education to the California Department of Public Health. Below are the steps to help you accurately complete the Lab 177 form.

  1. Begin by writing your full name at the top of the form.
  2. Next, provide your daytime telephone number, followed by your home telephone number.
  3. If available, include your email address on the form.
  4. Fill in your mailing address, ensuring it includes street number, city, state, and ZIP code.
  5. Indicate whether there has been a change of name or address since your last renewal by selecting "Yes" or "No".
  6. Answer the question regarding any felony or misdemeanor convictions that may have occurred since the last renewal by selecting “Yes” or “No”. Provide additional explanation if necessary.
  7. Complete Section 1 by listing the details of any approved continuing education courses you have taken. This includes the date of issue, certificate number, program title, accrediting agency name, course number, and CE units.
  8. If applicable, fill out Section 2 with information about any relevant college or university courses undertaken. Include course number and title, semester/quarter units, and the course dates.
  9. Sign and date the form at the designated area to certify that the information provided is accurate and that you have retained relevant documentation for the last four years.
  10. After completing the form, gather the Continuing Education Activity Summary and renewal fee before mailing all materials to the specified address: Accounting Section / Cashiering Unit, MS 1601, P.O. Box 997376, Sacramento, CA 95899-7376

Get Answers on Lab 177

What are the continuing education requirements for renewing the Lab 177 form?

Each licensed individual under the California Department of Public Health must complete continuing education hours to maintain their active license or certificate. The requirements vary based on the role:

  • Directors, Cytotechnologists, Clinical Laboratory Scientists, and Medical Laboratory Technicians require 24 hours every two years.
  • Phlebotomists must complete 6 hours every two years.

During renewal, you must provide details of the continuing education programs successfully completed, including the date of issue, accrediting agency number, program title, course number, and contact hours received. This information is submitted along with the Continuing Education Activity Summary found on the back of the Lab 177 form.

How should I submit my renewal application for the Lab 177 form?

Renewal applications must be submitted through the mail. The Department does not accept in-person submissions at their Richmond office. To ensure timely processing, send your completed renewal application and the associated Continuing Education Activity Summary at least 60 days prior to the expiration of your current license or certificate. Make sure to include the appropriate renewal fee, which can be verified through the Department’s fee schedule available online.

What should I do if I change my name or address?

If you change your name or address, you are required to notify the Laboratory Field Services within 30 days of the change. This notification should be sent via email to [email protected], with the subject line indicating "Change of Address." It is essential to keep your contact information updated to receive important correspondence regarding your license status and renewal process.

What happens if I am selected for an audit after submitting my renewal?

Each year, the Department randomly audits a number of renewal applications. If selected for an audit, you will receive a notice by mail instructing you to provide verification documents, such as copies of your continuing education certificates or transcripts. You do not need to submit these documents with your initial renewal application but must retain them for a minimum of four years in case they are requested.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Lab 177 form correctly is crucial for ensuring that your clinical laboratory license or certificate is renewed without delays. One common mistake is failing to provide complete personal information. Ensure that you fill out all required fields, including your name, daytime and home telephone numbers, and email address. This information is essential for the Department to process your application efficiently.

Another mistake people often make is neglecting the Continuing Education Activity Summary. When listing your continuing education activities, include all necessary details such as the date of issue, certificate number, program title, and contact hours. Omitting any of this information can lead to processing delays or even application rejection.

Many applicants also overlook the renewal fee. It’s easy to forget this critical step, but the renewal application must be accompanied by the appropriate fee. To ensure your payment is processed smoothly, visit the provided website for the most up-to-date fee information.

Additionally, not adhering to the submission guidelines is a frequent error. Remember that applications must be sent by mail, not dropped off in person. Make sure your application is sent to the correct address, as providing incorrect mailing information can result in your renewal being lost or delayed.

Failing to notify the Department of any changes in personal information, such as a change of address or name, is another mistake that can cause complications. Always provide timely updates via email in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the form.

Lastly, applicants often forget the audit process. Save all documents related to your continuing education for at least four years, as the Department may randomly audit your submission. In case of an audit, be prepared to provide the necessary documentation upon request to avoid issues with your license renewal.

Documents used along the form

The Lab 177 form is critical for renewing a clinical laboratory license or certificate in California. Alongside this form, several additional documents help facilitate the renewal process. Below is a list of commonly associated forms and documents that may be required.

  • Continuing Education Activity Summary: This document lists all continuing education courses completed since the last renewal. It includes details like course title, date, and credits earned.
  • Application for License Renewal: This formal request initiates the process of renewing a clinical laboratory license or certificate, requiring essential personal details and license information.
  • Course Completion Certificates: Issued by accredited providers, these certificates verify the completion of continuing education courses. They must be kept on file for at least four years.
  • Official Transcripts: For those taking college-level courses relevant to clinical laboratory practice, official transcripts can serve as proof of education and are required if audited.
  • Address Change Notification: If a licensed individual changes their address, a notification must be sent to the Department of Public Health within 30 days, ensuring records remain current.
  • Audit Response Form: This form is used when a licensee is selected for audit, requesting information about continuing education credits. It may include spaces for supplementary explanations.
  • Verification of Employment: Sometimes required, this document provides proof of current employment in a clinical lab, which can be necessary for certain license types.
  • Criminal Background Disclosure: If there has been any change in legal status, this disclosure form must be submitted, detailing any felonies or misdemeanors occurring since the last renewal.
  • Renewal Fee Payment Form: This form, often associated with payment methods, confirms that the renewal fee has been submitted. It should reference the license number on the payment.
  • Continuing Education Provider List: This ensures that licensees have a resource of approved providers from whom they can obtain the necessary education credits.

Being familiar with these additional documents aids in a smoother renewal process for a clinical laboratory license or certificate. It is essential to prepare these materials ahead of time to ensure compliance with state requirements and avoid any delays.

Similar forms

The Lab 177 form, used for the renewal of personnel clinical laboratory licenses in California, shares similarities with several other essential documents within the health and professional licensing framework. Here is a comparison to eight other documents:

  • Medical License Renewal Application: Similar to the Lab 177 form, this document requires medical professionals to submit proof of continuing education hours and an application fee to maintain their licensure.
  • Nursing License Renewal Form: Like the Lab 177 form, this form ensures that nursing professionals meet continuing education standards while asking for personal and professional information pertinent to licensure.
  • Pharmacy License Renewal Form: This document necessitates the disclosure of completed continuing education and professional activities, mirroring the requirements found in the Lab 177 for laboratory professionals.
  • Occupational Therapy License Renewal Application: Occupational therapists must document their continuing education hours and professional activities, similar to the requirements for clinical laboratory scientists as articulated in the Lab 177 form.
  • Social Work License Renewal Application: This application collects evidence of continuing education along with personal information, reflecting the same structure and function as the Lab 177 form.
  • Physician Assistant License Renewal Form: Physician assistants must also complete continuing education requirements and submit a renewal application, paralleling the process outlined in the Lab 177.
  • Radiologic Technologist License Renewal Application: This form parallels the Lab 177 as it requires the submission of continuing education activities, ensuring that professionals stay current in their practice.
  • Dental License Renewal Application: Dentists, akin to clinical laboratory professionals, must provide verification of continuing education to renew their licenses, reflecting similar procedural requirements found in the Lab 177 form.

Dos and Don'ts

Here are some important dos and don’ts when filling out the Lab 177 form for renewing your personnel clinical laboratory license or certificate.

  • Do provide your license or certificate number on the renewal application.
  • Do include your continuing education (CE) details accurately, as required.
  • Do submit your application at least 60 days before your license expires.
  • Do keep your continuing education documents for a minimum of four years.
  • Don’t submit original certificates or transcripts with your application.
  • Don’t forget to sign the application to certify the authenticity of your CE courses.
  • Don’t wait until the last minute to send in your renewal application.
  • Don’t ignore the requirement to notify the department of any changes in your name or address within 30 days.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Lab 177 form can be challenging, especially with the various requirements it outlines. Below are four common misconceptions regarding this renewal form, along with clarifications to help make the process smoother:

  • Misconception 1: The continuing education (CE) hours required are optional.
  • This is not true. Completing the required CE hours is mandatory for all licensed personnel under California law. For directors, cytotechnologists, clinical laboratory scientists, and medical laboratory technicians, a total of 24 CE hours is required every two years. Phlebotomists need 6 CE hours within the same period. Failing to meet these requirements may affect the renewal of your license.

  • Misconception 2: You can submit your application in person.
  • Applications, renewals, and inquiries must be sent via mail. The California Department of Public Health's Laboratory Field Services office in Richmond does not accept submissions in person. Be sure to allocate time for mail processing when planning your renewal.

  • Misconception 3: You need to send your CE completion certificates with the application.
  • This is a common misunderstanding. You do not need to forward your continuing education documents with your renewal application. Instead, retain those documents for a minimum of four years. The Department may request them if you are randomly selected for an audit.

  • Misconception 4: There is no need to report changes to your name or address.
  • On the contrary, it is crucial to notify the department of any changes. You must inform the Laboratory Field Services by email within 30 days if your name or address changes. This ensures that you receive important updates regarding your license renewal and any applicable audits.

By debunking these misconceptions, individuals can navigate the Lab 177 form with greater confidence and clarity, ensuring compliance with all necessary regulations.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the Lab 177 form, keep these key takeaways in mind:

  • Continuing Education Requirements: Licensees must complete specific continuing education hours. Directors and Clinical Laboratory Scientists need 24 hours, while Phlebotomists require 6 hours every two years.
  • Early Submission: Submit the renewal application at least 60 days before your license expires. This helps avoid any lapses in your certification.
  • Documents for Renewal: Include the Continuing Education Activity Summary, renewal application, and the associated fee. Ensure you check the current fee schedule on the California Department of Public Health website.
  • Audit Awareness: Some applications are randomly selected for audit. If chosen, you will need to provide documentation of your continuing education, so maintain your records for at least four years.
  • Email for Changes: If there’s any change to your name or address, notify the Laboratory Field Services within 30 days via email. Include "Change of Address" in the subject line.
  • No Submissions Needed: Do not send original or copies of your certificates with the renewal application unless specifically requested during an audit.