What is Medical Lab Technologist?
A Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT), also known as a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), is a healthcare professional who performs laboratory tests and procedures to aid in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. MLTs work in medical laboratories, hospitals, clinics, research facilities, and other healthcare settings.
The duties of a Medical Laboratory Technologist may include:
- Collecting and processing specimens, such as blood, urine, and tissue samples, for laboratory analysis
- Operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, such as microscopes, centrifuges, and automated analyzers
- Analyzing specimens and recording the results of laboratory tests and procedures
- Evaluating the quality of laboratory results and ensuring that they are accurate and reliable
- Communicating laboratory results to physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals
- Performing quality control checks and maintaining records of laboratory procedures and results
- Troubleshooting problems with laboratory equipment and procedures
- Participating in research projects and staying up-to-date with advances in laboratory technology and techniques.
To become a Medical Laboratory Technologist, a person typically needs to complete a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science, clinical laboratory science, or a related field. Some MLTs may also pursue a master’s degree in a related field to advance their knowledge and skills. Additionally, MLTs must be licensed or certified by their state or national professional organization, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA).
In summary, a Medical Laboratory Technologist is a trained healthcare professional who performs laboratory tests and procedures to aid in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. They work in medical laboratories and other healthcare settings, and must have a bachelor’s degree and be licensed or certified by a professional organization.
How to Become Medical Lab Technologist?
To become a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT), there are several steps that you will need to take:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or a related field: Most employers require that MLTs hold a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or a related field. Some programs may require prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and math.
- Complete a clinical laboratory internship or residency: Most bachelor’s degree programs in medical laboratory science include a clinical laboratory internship or residency as part of the curriculum. This provides students with hands-on experience working in a medical laboratory.
- Obtain certification or licensure: MLTs must be licensed or certified by their state or national professional organization, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA). Certification requirements typically include passing a certification exam and meeting education and experience requirements.
- Maintain certification and licensure: MLTs must maintain their certification and licensure by completing continuing education courses and passing periodic recertification exams.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the steps to becoming a Medical Laboratory Technologist:
Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or a related field
To become an MLT, you will need to earn a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or a related field. Many universities and colleges offer medical laboratory science programs that include courses in biology, chemistry, math, and clinical laboratory science. Some programs may also require prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. The program typically takes four years to complete.
Step 2: Complete a clinical laboratory internship or residency
Most medical laboratory science programs include a clinical laboratory internship or residency as part of the curriculum. This provides students with hands-on experience working in a medical laboratory. During the internship or residency, students will work under the supervision of a licensed Medical Laboratory Technologist and gain experience in performing laboratory tests and procedures.
Step 3: Obtain certification or licensure
After completing the bachelor’s degree program and clinical laboratory internship or residency, MLTs must obtain certification or licensure to practice. Certification or licensure is typically required by state regulations or by employers. MLTs may obtain certification from a professional organization, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA). Certification requirements typically include passing a certification exam and meeting education and experience requirements.
Step 4: Maintain certification and licensure
MLTs must maintain their certification and licensure by completing continuing education courses and passing periodic recertification exams. Continuing education courses may include attending workshops, seminars, or webinars, or completing online courses. Recertification exams are typically required every few years to ensure that MLTs stay up-to-date with advances in laboratory technology and techniques.
In summary, to become a Medical Laboratory Technologist, you will need to earn a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or a related field, complete a clinical laboratory internship or residency, obtain certification or licensure, and maintain certification and licensure by completing continuing education courses and passing periodic recertification exams.
Jobs and Salary of Medical Lab Technologist in top Companies
| Company Name | Average Annual Salary |
| Mayo Clinic | $59,000 – $89,000 |
| LabCorp | $50,000 – $80,000 |
| Quest Diagnostics | $45,000 – $70,000 |
| Kaiser Permanente | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| Cleveland Clinic | $56,000 – $82,000 |
| Johns Hopkins Medicine | $54,000 – $80,000 |
| Veterans Health Admin. | $48,000 – $76,000 |
| Massachusetts General | $57,000 – $85,000 |
| Cedars-Sinai | $65,000 – $95,000 |
Medical Lab Technologist: FAQs
What does a Medical Laboratory Technologist do?
A Medical Laboratory Technologist performs laboratory tests on patient samples to diagnose and treat diseases. They may work in a variety of laboratory settings, including hospitals, clinics, research laboratories, and public health laboratories.
What education is required to become a Medical Laboratory Technologist?
Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or a related field. Some programs may also require prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and math.
What certification or licensure is required for Medical Laboratory Technologists?
Most states require licensure or certification to practice as a Medical Laboratory Technologist. Certification can be obtained from a professional organization, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA).
What is the job outlook for Medical Laboratory Technologists?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Medical Laboratory Technologists is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by an aging population and the increasing demand for medical tests and procedures.
What skills are important for Medical Laboratory Technologists?
Important skills for Medical Laboratory Technologists include attention to detail, analytical skills, technical skills, problem-solving skills, and communication skills. They must also be able to work effectively in a team environment and adhere to safety and quality control standards.
What is the typical salary for Medical Laboratory Technologists?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Medical Laboratory Technologists was $54,180 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and qualifications.
What is the difference between a Medical Laboratory Technologist and a Medical Laboratory Technician?
Medical Laboratory Technologists typically require a bachelor’s degree and perform more complex laboratory tests, while Medical Laboratory Technicians typically require an associate’s degree and perform routine laboratory tests. However, the specific job duties and responsibilities may vary depending on the employer and the laboratory setting.
