A duly licensed ____________ can serve as a CLIA director of a laboratory and may perform only clinical laboratory tests as authorized.

The role of a CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) director requires specific qualifications and is closely related to the type of clinical laboratory tests that can be performed. In California, an OD (Doctor of Optometry) is considered a licensed healthcare professional who has received specialized training in ocular health and vision care. This training, in conjunction with state regulations, allows ODs to serve in the capacity of a CLIA laboratory director.

Ocular testing and certain lab procedures can fall under the purview of optometrists, particularly tests related to vision and eye health. ODs have completed education that aligns with performing clinical laboratory tests as may be authorized by state law, making them eligible for this responsibility.

While physicians are also able to serve as CLIA directors and have broader authority regarding various medical tests, the specific context of the question seems to focus on the optometry profession and the capability of ODs in laboratory settings. The other options—optometrists, laboratory technicians, or general physicians—do not align as closely with the specific authorization and training required for the types of tests linked to a clinical laboratory operated by ODs.

Thus, the identification of ODs as qualified personnel to serve as CLIA laboratory directors comes from their extensive education