LAB-CARES in Action, From Theory to Value Based Practice

This webinar explores how the LAB-CARES framework can transform laboratory culture, strengthen workforce engagement, and advance patient-centered, value-based practice. Through real-world examples from diverse laboratory settings, Dr. Melody Nelson, Stephanie Whitehead, and Aaron Odegard will demonstrate how LAB-CARES principles are being applied to improve collaboration, visibility, and impact across healthcare systems. Participants will gain practical strategies to elevate the role of the laboratory, foster a more connected and empowered workforce, and drive meaningful cultural change within their organizations.

Objectives:

1. Explain the LAB-CARES framework and its relevance to workforce engagement and patient-centered care.

2. Share real-world applications of the LAB-CARES principles from diverse laboratory settings.

3. Provide participants with actionable strategies to enhance laboratory visibility and reshape the internal culture.

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Speaker Bios:

Melody Boudreaux Nelson, DCLS, CC (NRCC), MS, MLS(ASCP)CM

Melody Boudreaux Nelson, DCLS, CC (NRCC), MS, MLS (ASCP)CM, is a board-certified Clinical Chemist and Doctor of Clinical Laboratory Scientist with the University of Kansas Health System. She currently holds an Assistant Clinical Professor role with the University of Kansas Medical Center and serves as the Assistant Clinical Director for the Core Laboratory and Section Director for POC services at the University of Kansas Health System. Dr. Nelson is interested in longitudinal analysis of clinical laboratory-led interventions in value-based systems and population health and is a certified ICHOM value-based healthcare professional.

Stephanie Whitehead, MBA, MPH, MLS(ASCP)

Stephanie Whitehead, MBA, MPH, MLS(ASCP), is Vice President of Pathology Services at University Health in South Texas and a founding member of the LAB-CARES™ team. She leads high-performing laboratory teams focused on delivering quality patient care and advancing excellence in diagnostic services. Stephanie is co-host of the internationally recognized podcasts eLABorate Topics and SuperSTAT, where she engages global audiences on the future of laboratory medicine. A certified executive coach and award-winning leader, she is passionate about developing others and elevating the impact of the laboratory profession.

Aaron K. Odegard, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, SMCM, QLSCM

Aaron K. Odegard, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, SMCM, QLSCM, is a laboratory quality coordinator at Baptist Health Jacksonville. In addition, he is an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Santa Fe College. He received his master’s degree in biomedical sciences—molecular pharmacology and experimental therapeutics from Mayo Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. Aaron is passionate about medical laboratory science and serves as a member of both the ASCP Commissions on Membership and Continuing Professional Development.  He is a founding member of the LAB-CARES Team. He enjoys educating fellow professionals, students, and the public on laboratory leadership, mentorship, and medical laboratory sciences through several platforms.

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