About Us

The aims and objectives of the Association are:

• To encourage the science and art of Cytopathology by encouraging higher standards in Cytopathology for the benefit of the public

• To encourage research in Cytopathology and related fields and the publication of useful results

In line with these aims, the BAC acknowledge the importance of training and education as helping develop the cytology workforce in delivering a high quality and clinically relevant cytology service. Any training and education must build on the core skills that cytologists, whatever their route into cytology, acquire in basic training leading to development throughout their professional lives.

The BAC is the voice for cytology on numerous stakeholder professional groups. This list is not exhaustive but includes: the NHS Cervical Screening Programme, the Department of Health, Royal College of Pathologists, Institute of Biomedical Science, European Federation of Cytology Societies and worldwide through the International Academy of Cytology.

Communication with other bodies occurs primarily through the elected Executive. If there are any issues of importance that you feel the BAC should address, please address your views to the Honorary Secretary.

The BAC acts as the primary owner of and major contributor to guidelines which bear on the practice of both cervical and diagnostic cytopathology. The BAC also inputs via representation on other bodies into national workforce and educational discussions, to help shape the UK approach to these topics.