Unveiling the Role of a Medical Lab Technician
Medical lab technicians collect samples, perform tests, and analyze results to assist doctors in diagnosing and treating patients. They play a vital behind-the-scenes role in healthcare. Read on for an in-depth look at this growing career.
Medical Lab Technician Career Path
The first step to becoming a medical lab tech is usually completing an associate's degree program in medical laboratory technology or a related field. These 2-year programs provide extensive hands-on lab training.
With this background, medical lab technicians can find jobs in hospitals, clinics, blood banks, and private labs. Experienced techs may advance to supervisory roles or specialize in a department like microbiology.
Required Education and Skills
Most employers prefer candidates with an associate's degree in medical laboratory technology. Some may accept a certificate instead. Essential skills include attention to detail, critical thinking, computer abilities, math, and the dexterity to perform laboratory tests with precision.
Salary Trends and Outlook
The average medical lab tech salary is $54,180 per year, per BLS data. Entry-level positions start around $40,000, while experienced techs can earn over $70,000 annually. The field is projected to grow 7% over the next decade.
Recommended Reading
- Success! in Clinical Laboratory Science - Provides techniques and tips for excelling in medical lab tech training and practice.
- Laboratory Medicine: The Diagnosis of Disease in the Clinical Laboratory - Reference covering the science behind diagnostic lab tests.
- ASCP Phlebotomy Exam Secrets Study Guide - Helpful for prepping for the ASCP's phlebotomy technician certification exam.
Key Topics in Training Programs
Typical medical lab tech coursework covers:
- Specimen collection and processing
- Using microscopes and lab equipment
- Phlebotomy
- Lab safety protocols
- Quality control
- Blood banking
- Molecular techniques
- Urinalysis
- Medical terminology
How to Become a Medical Lab Technician
To start a medical lab tech career:
- Earn an associate's degree in medical lab technology
- Obtain certification from ASCP or AMT to boost credentials
- Complete an internship or externship for hands-on experience
- Develop expertise with diagnostic lab equipment and procedures
- Consider specializing in an area like microbiology
- Research openings and apply for medical lab technician jobs
Top Courses and Certifications
Highly regarded programs include:
- Weber State Medical Laboratory Sciences Associate Degree
- Rush University Medical Lab Science Associate Degree
- George Washington University Medical Laboratory Science Certificate
Leading certifications are the ASCP MLS and AMT RMA credentials.
Job Search Strategies
When applying for lab tech roles, highlight your education, certifications, lab skills, attention to detail, and interest in diagnostic medicine. With proper training and persistence, you can embark on a rewarding medical lab technician career.