It was founded on 28 March 1953 at the inaugural meeting attended by 75 members at the Hammersmith Hospital in London, and its official journal is the Annals of Clinical Biochemistry.
As the major body for clinical biochemistry, immunology and microbiology in the United Kingdom, it works nationally and internationally to promote the highest standards in laboratory testing and patient care.
Its functions includes fostering the highest standards in laboratory medicine and patient care; using data, science and technology to support human health; trade union support for members and promoting laboratory medicine to the wider community; training, professional leadership, examples of best practice and guidance to the profession, governments, the public and media; scientific and educational initiatives, bursaries and awards.
Papers published by LabMed members are related to the use of laboratories by doctors and patient health diagnostic testing in the UK.
LabMed was part of a 2008 effort by a consortium to support a Scottish government initiative aimed at emphasizing the need for quality laboratory services to the practice of medicine.