Medical
Laboratory Technology
The practice
of modern medicine would be impossible without the tests performed in the
clinical laboratory. A medical team of pathologists, specialists,scientists,
technologists, and technicians work together to determine the presence, extent,
or absence of disease and provide data needed to evaluate the effectiveness of
treatment.
Laboratory
procedures require an array of complex precision instruments and a variety of
automated and electronic equipment. However, women and men interested in
helping others are the foundation of a successful laboratory. They must be
accurate, reliable, have an interest in science and be able to recognize their
responsibility for human lives.
Laboratory
roles are based on a career ladder of academic and technical components.
Individuals interested in a medical laboratory career may direct their goals to
one of many levels of education. Laboratory personnel may advance by acquiring
additional education and/or technical experience, beginning with the medical
laboratory technician program and progressing to a technologist or a
specialist.
Critical to
high-quality health care is the assurance that individuals performing
laboratory tests are able to carry out their responsibilities in a proficient
manner. Therefore, laboratory personnel of demonstrated competence are of prime
importance.
The Board of
Certification (BOC) of the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
provides a mechanism for these individuals to be recognized as having the
necessary competence to perform the medical laboratory roles they seek. This
mechanism is called certification.
Welcome to
the world inside the medical laboratory. It's a world where medical laboratory
professionals find answers to these questions and more. In the laboratory, a
highly-skilled medical team of pathologists, scientists technologists,
technicians and specialists work together to determine the presence, extent or
absence of disease and provide valuable data needed to evaluate the
effectiveness of treatment. The fact is, the practice of modern medicine would
be impossible without the tests performed in the laboratory.
Though they
spend less time with patients than doctors and nurses, medical laboratory professionals
are just as dedicated to patients' health. As vital members of the health care
team, medical laboratory professionals play a critical role in collecting the
information needed to give the best care to an ill or injured patient. They
find great satisfaction in their work, knowing that they are helping others and
saving lives.
Medical
laboratory professionals have unlimited choices of practice settings.
Hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, public health facilities, and commercial
laboratories all have positions open Right Now for qualified laboratory
professionals. In these settings, communication and research skills are highly
prized.
In the years
to come, the major areas of scientific exploration will include the immune
system, cell marker technology, bioengineering, DNA technology and cancer
research. In the clinical area, drug testing, therapeutic drug monitoring, and
biogenetics are just a few of the specialties with openings. In commercial
businesses and industries, there are positions available in marketing and sales
of laboratory equipment and products as well as research and development of new
technology.
Health care
is one of the fastest growing industries in the United States. More than a
quarter million people work in medical laboratory services alone. As our
population grows older and medical knowledge expands, there is an increasing
need for highly skilled and educated professionals. For someone who chooses a
career as a laboratory professional, the exploration never ends.
What medical
laboratory scientists do
The medical laboratory scientist has the best of both worlds with the challenges and rewards of medicine and science.
The medical laboratory scientist has the best of both worlds with the challenges and rewards of medicine and science.
The medical
laboratory scientist performs a full range of laboratory tests—from simple
pre-marital blood tests, to more complex tests to uncover diseases such as
AIDS, diabetes, and cancer. The medical technologist is also responsible for
confirming the accuracy of test results and reporting laboratory findings to
the pathologist and other doctors.
Medical
laboratory scientists work quickly and carefully. They hold life and death in
their hands, because the information they give to the doctor influences the
medical treatment a patient receives.
In their
search for data on a patient’s health, medical technologists do much more than
examine specimens through a microscope. They operate complex electronic
equipment, computers, and precision instruments.
Medical
laboratory scientists are self-sufficient, precise and thorough. They are
trouble-shooters who not only report accurate results, but also know when
results are incorrect and need to be rechecked.
Medical
laboratory scientists work in five major areas of the laboratory: Blood
banking, Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology and Microbiology.
Job ratings
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory scientists /medical technologists are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory scientists ranked 16 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked third in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory scientists /medical technologists are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory scientists ranked 16 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked third in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
Job
opportunities
Medical laboratory scientists have unlimited choices of practice settings. Hospitals, independent laboratories, clinics, public health facilities, and industry all currently have positions open for qualified medical technologists. Additional opportunities are available in molecular diagnostics, molecular biotechnology companies and in vitro fertilization laboratories as well as in research labs.
Medical laboratory scientists have unlimited choices of practice settings. Hospitals, independent laboratories, clinics, public health facilities, and industry all currently have positions open for qualified medical technologists. Additional opportunities are available in molecular diagnostics, molecular biotechnology companies and in vitro fertilization laboratories as well as in research labs.
Salaries
The national average beginning salary for medical laboratory scientists is approximately $27,000, although salaries vary by area of the country. Experienced supervisors’ and managers’ average salaries range from $41,000 to $56,000.
The national average beginning salary for medical laboratory scientists is approximately $27,000, although salaries vary by area of the country. Experienced supervisors’ and managers’ average salaries range from $41,000 to $56,000.
What it
takes to be a medical laboratory scientists
All medical laboratory scientists have certain common characteristics. They are problem-solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career in the medical laboratory, the exploration never ends.
All medical laboratory scientists have certain common characteristics. They are problem-solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career in the medical laboratory, the exploration never ends.
Career preparation
To prepare for a career in medical laboratory science, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll also need a combination of formal education (baccalaureate degree) plus clinical education in a medical technology program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). There are a variety of programs from which to choose. Many colleges and universities offer a degree in Clinical Laboratory Science. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at http://www.ascp.org/certification to obtain listings of programs by state.
To prepare for a career in medical laboratory science, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll also need a combination of formal education (baccalaureate degree) plus clinical education in a medical technology program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). There are a variety of programs from which to choose. Many colleges and universities offer a degree in Clinical Laboratory Science. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at http://www.ascp.org/certification to obtain listings of programs by state.
Your
education in medical laboratory science will prepare you directly for a job in
a wide variety of laboratory settings. You have many choices in pursuing a
career in medical laboratory science. While you’re going to school, you can
work part-time in a laboratory to earn extra money. And you could start working
full-time the day after you graduate.
Certification
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Certification of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam in medical laboratory science may use the initials, MLS (ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Certification of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam in medical laboratory science may use the initials, MLS (ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
Opportunities
to specialize
A medical laboratory scientist who gains experience in one of the special areas of the laboratory has the opportunity to advance to a specialist level. In today’s laboratories, areas of scientific exploration are the immune system, cell marker technology, bioengineering and cancer research. In the clinical areas, drug testing, therapeutic drug monitoring and biogenetics are just a few of the specialties with openings. In industry, medical laboratory scientists are needed for positions in product development, marketing, sales, quality assurance, environmental health and insurance, among others.
A medical laboratory scientist who gains experience in one of the special areas of the laboratory has the opportunity to advance to a specialist level. In today’s laboratories, areas of scientific exploration are the immune system, cell marker technology, bioengineering and cancer research. In the clinical areas, drug testing, therapeutic drug monitoring and biogenetics are just a few of the specialties with openings. In industry, medical laboratory scientists are needed for positions in product development, marketing, sales, quality assurance, environmental health and insurance, among others.
What medical
laboratory technicians do
The challenges and rewards of medicine and science — the medical laboratory technician has the best of both worlds.
The challenges and rewards of medicine and science — the medical laboratory technician has the best of both worlds.
The medical
laboratory technician performs general tests in all laboratory areas — Blood
banking, Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology and Microbiology. Working with the
supervision of a medical technologist, a medical laboratory technician hunts
for clues to the absence, presence, extent, and causes of diseases.
Medical
laboratory technicians must be accurate, dedicated and skilled. They must also
be self-motivated, and take the initiative to do what must be done everyday —
to pitch in to help the healthcare team.
Job ratings
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory technicians are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory technicians ranked 18 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked fourth in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory technicians are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory technicians ranked 18 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked fourth in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
Job
opportunities
The future long-term employment for medical laboratory technicians looks bright. Employment opportunities are expected to increase through the year 2005. Medical laboratory technicians work in a variety of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit laboratories, clinics, nursing homes, public health facilities, business and industry currently have positions open for qualified medical laboratory technicians.
The future long-term employment for medical laboratory technicians looks bright. Employment opportunities are expected to increase through the year 2005. Medical laboratory technicians work in a variety of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit laboratories, clinics, nursing homes, public health facilities, business and industry currently have positions open for qualified medical laboratory technicians.
Salaries
The national average salary median for medical laboratory technicians is approximately $26,800, although salaries vary by area of the country.
The national average salary median for medical laboratory technicians is approximately $26,800, although salaries vary by area of the country.
What it
takes to be a medical laboratory technician
All medical laboratory technicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a medical laboratory technician, the exploration never ends.
All medical laboratory technicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a medical laboratory technician, the exploration never ends.
Career preparation
To prepare for a career as a medical laboratory technician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need a combination of formal education plus clinical education in a medical laboratory technician (MLT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Approximately 200 community colleges and hospitals offer these programs. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
To prepare for a career as a medical laboratory technician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need a combination of formal education plus clinical education in a medical laboratory technician (MLT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Approximately 200 community colleges and hospitals offer these programs. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
With a
career as a medical laboratory technician, you’ll have unlimited choices.
Unlike many other careers, your education in medical laboratory technology will
prepare you directly for a job. While you’re going to school, you can work
part-time in a laboratory to earn extra money. And you could start working
full-time the day after you graduate.
Certification
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for Medical Laboratory Technician may use the initials, MLT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for Medical Laboratory Technician may use the initials, MLT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
Opportunities
for Advancement
A medical laboratory technician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has three years of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited medical technologist program, can become a medical technologist.
A medical laboratory technician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has three years of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited medical technologist program, can become a medical technologist.
The medical
technologist performs a full range of laboratory tests, from the most routine
to the most complex, with little or no supervision. Medical technologists can
be teachers, supervisors, or researchers working in new areas of scientific
exploration.
What medical
laboratory technicians do
The challenges and rewards of medicine and science — the medical laboratory technician has the best of both worlds.
The challenges and rewards of medicine and science — the medical laboratory technician has the best of both worlds.
The medical
laboratory technician performs general tests in all laboratory areas — Blood
banking, Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology and Microbiology. Working with the
supervision of a medical technologist, a medical laboratory technician hunts
for clues to the absence, presence, extent, and causes of diseases.
Medical
laboratory technicians must be accurate, dedicated and skilled. They must also
be self-motivated, and take the initiative to do what must be done everyday —
to pitch in to help the healthcare team.
Job ratings
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory technicians are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory technicians ranked 18 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked fourth in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory technicians are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory technicians ranked 18 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked fourth in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
Job
opportunities
The future long-term employment for medical laboratory technicians looks bright. Employment opportunities are expected to increase through the year 2005. Medical laboratory technicians work in a variety of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit laboratories, clinics, nursing homes, public health facilities, business and industry currently have positions open for qualified medical laboratory technicians.
The future long-term employment for medical laboratory technicians looks bright. Employment opportunities are expected to increase through the year 2005. Medical laboratory technicians work in a variety of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit laboratories, clinics, nursing homes, public health facilities, business and industry currently have positions open for qualified medical laboratory technicians.
Salaries
The national average salary median for medical laboratory technicians is approximately $26,800, although salaries vary by area of the country.
The national average salary median for medical laboratory technicians is approximately $26,800, although salaries vary by area of the country.
What it
takes to be a medical laboratory technician
All medical laboratory technicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a medical laboratory technician, the exploration never ends.
All medical laboratory technicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a medical laboratory technician, the exploration never ends.
Career
preparation
To prepare for a career as a medical laboratory technician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need a combination of formal education plus clinical education in a medical laboratory technician (MLT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Approximately 200 community colleges and hospitals offer these programs. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
To prepare for a career as a medical laboratory technician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need a combination of formal education plus clinical education in a medical laboratory technician (MLT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Approximately 200 community colleges and hospitals offer these programs. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
With a
career as a medical laboratory technician, you’ll have unlimited choices.
Unlike many other careers, your education in medical laboratory technology will
prepare you directly for a job. While you’re going to school, you can work
part-time in a laboratory to earn extra money. And you could start working
full-time the day after you graduate.
Certification
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for Medical Laboratory Technician may use the initials, MLT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for Medical Laboratory Technician may use the initials, MLT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
Opportunities
for Advancement
A medical laboratory technician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has three years of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited medical technologist program, can become a medical technologist.
A medical laboratory technician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has three years of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited medical technologist program, can become a medical technologist.
The medical
technologist performs a full range of laboratory tests, from the most routine
to the most complex, with little or no supervision. Medical technologists can
be teachers, supervisors, or researchers working in new areas of scientific
exploration.
What
histotechnicians do
Cancer can often be detected by the appearance of cells in a tissue sample. Once a sample tissue is taken from the patient, it’s sent to the laboratory. It’s the job of the histotechnician to prepare very thin sections of body tissues for microscopic examination by a pathologist.
Cancer can often be detected by the appearance of cells in a tissue sample. Once a sample tissue is taken from the patient, it’s sent to the laboratory. It’s the job of the histotechnician to prepare very thin sections of body tissues for microscopic examination by a pathologist.
The
histotechnician must work quickly and under pressure since the answers may be
needed while the patient is in surgery. Working closely with the pathologist,
the histotechnician freezes and cuts the tissues, mounts them on slides and
stains them with special dyes to make the cell details visible under the
microscope. With the information learned from the section of tissue biopsy, the
pathologist and the surgeon find out if disease is present and if it has
spread. They can then decide on the best course of treatment for the patient.
The histotechnician
works with delicate instruments and automated equipment as well as knives,
chemicals and glass slides. He or she must value precision and have good
hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
Job
opportunities
Today, there are more jobs for histotechnicians than educated people to fill those jobs. The future long-term employment looks bright. The need is great everywhere throughout the country.
Today, there are more jobs for histotechnicians than educated people to fill those jobs. The future long-term employment looks bright. The need is great everywhere throughout the country.
Histotechnicians
have an unlimited choice of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit
laboratories, clinics, public health facilities, and industry currently have
positions open for qualified histotechnicians. Other opportunities for
histotechnicians are in industrial research, veterinary pathology, marine
biology and forensic pathology.
Salaries
The national average salary for histotechnicians is approximately $28,000, although salaries vary by area of the country.
The national average salary for histotechnicians is approximately $28,000, although salaries vary by area of the country.
What it
takes to be a histotechnician
All histotechnicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career in the histology laboratory, the exploration never ends.
All histotechnicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career in the histology laboratory, the exploration never ends.
Career
preparation
To prepare for a career as a histotechnician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need clinical education in a histologic technician (HT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) or an associate degree from a community college and training at a hospital. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
To prepare for a career as a histotechnician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need clinical education in a histologic technician (HT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) or an associate degree from a community college and training at a hospital. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
Preparing
for a career as a histotechnician is a good investment in your future. Unlike
many other careers, your education as a histotechnician will prepare you
directly for a job. While you’re going to school, you may be able to work
part-time in a laboratory to earn extra money. And you could start working
full-time the day after you graduate.
Certification
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Certification of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for histotechnician may use the initials, HT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Certification of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for histotechnician may use the initials, HT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
Opportunities
for Advancement
A histotechnician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has one year of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited histotechnology program, can become a histotechnologist (HTL). The histotechnologist performs more complex techniques such as enzyme histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. A histotechnologist can also teach, be a supervisor in a laboratory or be the director of a school for histologic technology.
A histotechnician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has one year of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited histotechnology program, can become a histotechnologist (HTL). The histotechnologist performs more complex techniques such as enzyme histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. A histotechnologist can also teach, be a supervisor in a laboratory or be the director of a school for histologic technology.
What
cytotechnologists do
Cells, cells, cells — that’s the work of the cytotechnologist. The skilled cytotechnologist examines human cell samples under the microscope, looking for early signs of cancer and other diseases. The cytotechnologist traces the clues to disease in the cytoplasm and nucleus of cells that have been stained with special dyes. With expert eyes, the cytotechnologist looks for the smallest abnormalities in color, shape and size that can be clues to the presence of disease.
Cells, cells, cells — that’s the work of the cytotechnologist. The skilled cytotechnologist examines human cell samples under the microscope, looking for early signs of cancer and other diseases. The cytotechnologist traces the clues to disease in the cytoplasm and nucleus of cells that have been stained with special dyes. With expert eyes, the cytotechnologist looks for the smallest abnormalities in color, shape and size that can be clues to the presence of disease.
The
cytotechnologist issues the final report on specimens that contain normal
cells. When abnormal cells are present, the cytotechnologist works with a
pathologist to arrive at a final diagnosis.
The cytotechnologist
works independently with little supervision. He/she must be patient, precise
and have relatively good eyesight. Above all, the cytotechnologist must enjoy
making decisions and taking responsibility, since his/her findings will
directly affect a patient’s course of treatment.
Job
opportunities
Today, there are more jobs for cytotechnologists than educated people to fill those jobs. The future long-term employment looks bright. The need is great everywhere throughout the country.
Today, there are more jobs for cytotechnologists than educated people to fill those jobs. The future long-term employment looks bright. The need is great everywhere throughout the country.
Cytotechnologists
have an unlimited choice of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit
laboratories, clinics, public health facilities, and industry currently have
positions open for qualified cytotechnologists.
Salaries
The national average beginning salary for cytotechnologists is approximately $32,000, although salaries vary by area of the country. Cytotechnologist supervisors average $48,000.
The national average beginning salary for cytotechnologists is approximately $32,000, although salaries vary by area of the country. Cytotechnologist supervisors average $48,000.
What it
takes to be a cytotechnologist
All cytotechnologists have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a cytotechnologist, the exploration never ends.
All cytotechnologists have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a cytotechnologist, the exploration never ends.
Career
preparation
To prepare for a career as a cytotechnologist, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll also need a combination of formal education leading to a baccalaureate degree, plus clinical education in a cytotechnology (CT) program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
To prepare for a career as a cytotechnologist, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll also need a combination of formal education leading to a baccalaureate degree, plus clinical education in a cytotechnology (CT) program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
Preparing
for a career as a cytotechnologist is a good investment in your future. Unlike
many other careers, your education in cytotechnology will prepare you directly
for a job. While you’re going to school, you may be able to work part-time in a
laboratory to earn extra money. And you could start working full-time the day
after you graduate.
Certification
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for cytotechnology may use the initials, CT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for cytotechnology may use the initials, CT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
Opportunities
for Specialization
A cytotechnologist with a baccalaureate degree and five years’ experience, or a master’s degree and four years’ experience, or a doctorate degree and three years’ experience can qualify to be a Specialist in Cytotechnology. These specialists are skilled in examining all types of body specimens including needle aspirates and fine needle aspirates. Senior cytotechnologists, supervisors or educators are generally Specialists in Cytotechnology.
A cytotechnologist with a baccalaureate degree and five years’ experience, or a master’s degree and four years’ experience, or a doctorate degree and three years’ experience can qualify to be a Specialist in Cytotechnology. These specialists are skilled in examining all types of body specimens including needle aspirates and fine needle aspirates. Senior cytotechnologists, supervisors or educators are generally Specialists in Cytotechnology.
Do you want
to work directly with patients? Then a career as a phlebotomy technician is a
good choice. The laboratory depends on the phlebotomy technician to collect
quality samples from the patient to produce quality laboratory results. To do
this, the phlebotomy technician must create an atmosphere of trust and
confidence with patients while drawing blood specimens in a skillful, safe and
reliable manner.
Phlebotomy
technicians must like challenge and responsibility. They must also be accurate,
work well under pressure and communicate effectively. Because the phlebotomy
technician works directly with the patient, he or she must also act as the
"eyes and ears" of the doctors, nurses and laboratory professionals.
The phlebotomist must notice and relay any important information gathered
during interaction with patients. Phlebotomists must set high standards for
themselves and they must be deeply committed to quality health care delivery.
Medical
Laboratory Technology
The practice
of modern medicine would be impossible without the tests performed in the
clinical laboratory. A medical team of pathologists, specialists,scientists,
technologists, and technicians work together to determine the presence, extent,
or absence of disease and provide data needed to evaluate the effectiveness of
treatment.
Laboratory
procedures require an array of complex precision instruments and a variety of
automated and electronic equipment. However, women and men interested in
helping others are the foundation of a successful laboratory. They must be
accurate, reliable, have an interest in science and be able to recognize their
responsibility for human lives.
Laboratory
roles are based on a career ladder of academic and technical components.
Individuals interested in a medical laboratory career may direct their goals to
one of many levels of education. Laboratory personnel may advance by acquiring
additional education and/or technical experience, beginning with the medical
laboratory technician program and progressing to a technologist or a
specialist.
Critical to
high-quality health care is the assurance that individuals performing
laboratory tests are able to carry out their responsibilities in a proficient
manner. Therefore, laboratory personnel of demonstrated competence are of prime
importance.
The Board of
Certification (BOC) of the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
provides a mechanism for these individuals to be recognized as having the
necessary competence to perform the medical laboratory roles they seek. This
mechanism is called certification.
Welcome to
the world inside the medical laboratory. It's a world where medical laboratory
professionals find answers to these questions and more. In the laboratory, a
highly-skilled medical team of pathologists, scientists technologists,
technicians and specialists work together to determine the presence, extent or
absence of disease and provide valuable data needed to evaluate the
effectiveness of treatment. The fact is, the practice of modern medicine would
be impossible without the tests performed in the laboratory.
Though they
spend less time with patients than doctors and nurses, medical laboratory professionals
are just as dedicated to patients' health. As vital members of the health care
team, medical laboratory professionals play a critical role in collecting the
information needed to give the best care to an ill or injured patient. They
find great satisfaction in their work, knowing that they are helping others and
saving lives.
Medical
laboratory professionals have unlimited choices of practice settings.
Hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, public health facilities, and commercial
laboratories all have positions open Right Now for qualified laboratory
professionals. In these settings, communication and research skills are highly
prized.
In the years
to come, the major areas of scientific exploration will include the immune
system, cell marker technology, bioengineering, DNA technology and cancer
research. In the clinical area, drug testing, therapeutic drug monitoring, and
biogenetics are just a few of the specialties with openings. In commercial
businesses and industries, there are positions available in marketing and sales
of laboratory equipment and products as well as research and development of new
technology.
Health care
is one of the fastest growing industries in the United States. More than a
quarter million people work in medical laboratory services alone. As our
population grows older and medical knowledge expands, there is an increasing
need for highly skilled and educated professionals. For someone who chooses a
career as a laboratory professional, the exploration never ends.
What medical
laboratory scientists do
The medical laboratory scientist has the best of both worlds with the challenges and rewards of medicine and science.
The medical laboratory scientist has the best of both worlds with the challenges and rewards of medicine and science.
The medical
laboratory scientist performs a full range of laboratory tests—from simple
pre-marital blood tests, to more complex tests to uncover diseases such as
AIDS, diabetes, and cancer. The medical technologist is also responsible for
confirming the accuracy of test results and reporting laboratory findings to
the pathologist and other doctors.
Medical
laboratory scientists work quickly and carefully. They hold life and death in
their hands, because the information they give to the doctor influences the
medical treatment a patient receives.
In their
search for data on a patient’s health, medical technologists do much more than
examine specimens through a microscope. They operate complex electronic
equipment, computers, and precision instruments.
Medical
laboratory scientists are self-sufficient, precise and thorough. They are
trouble-shooters who not only report accurate results, but also know when
results are incorrect and need to be rechecked.
Medical
laboratory scientists work in five major areas of the laboratory: Blood
banking, Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology and Microbiology.
Job ratings
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory scientists /medical technologists are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory scientists ranked 16 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked third in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory scientists /medical technologists are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory scientists ranked 16 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked third in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
Job
opportunities
Medical laboratory scientists have unlimited choices of practice settings. Hospitals, independent laboratories, clinics, public health facilities, and industry all currently have positions open for qualified medical technologists. Additional opportunities are available in molecular diagnostics, molecular biotechnology companies and in vitro fertilization laboratories as well as in research labs.
Medical laboratory scientists have unlimited choices of practice settings. Hospitals, independent laboratories, clinics, public health facilities, and industry all currently have positions open for qualified medical technologists. Additional opportunities are available in molecular diagnostics, molecular biotechnology companies and in vitro fertilization laboratories as well as in research labs.
Salaries
The national average beginning salary for medical laboratory scientists is approximately $27,000, although salaries vary by area of the country. Experienced supervisors’ and managers’ average salaries range from $41,000 to $56,000.
The national average beginning salary for medical laboratory scientists is approximately $27,000, although salaries vary by area of the country. Experienced supervisors’ and managers’ average salaries range from $41,000 to $56,000.
What it
takes to be a medical laboratory scientists
All medical laboratory scientists have certain common characteristics. They are problem-solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career in the medical laboratory, the exploration never ends.
All medical laboratory scientists have certain common characteristics. They are problem-solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career in the medical laboratory, the exploration never ends.
Career preparation
To prepare for a career in medical laboratory science, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll also need a combination of formal education (baccalaureate degree) plus clinical education in a medical technology program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). There are a variety of programs from which to choose. Many colleges and universities offer a degree in Clinical Laboratory Science. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at http://www.ascp.org/certification to obtain listings of programs by state.
To prepare for a career in medical laboratory science, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll also need a combination of formal education (baccalaureate degree) plus clinical education in a medical technology program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). There are a variety of programs from which to choose. Many colleges and universities offer a degree in Clinical Laboratory Science. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at http://www.ascp.org/certification to obtain listings of programs by state.
Your
education in medical laboratory science will prepare you directly for a job in
a wide variety of laboratory settings. You have many choices in pursuing a
career in medical laboratory science. While you’re going to school, you can
work part-time in a laboratory to earn extra money. And you could start working
full-time the day after you graduate.
Certification
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Certification of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam in medical laboratory science may use the initials, MLS (ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Certification of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam in medical laboratory science may use the initials, MLS (ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
Opportunities
to specialize
A medical laboratory scientist who gains experience in one of the special areas of the laboratory has the opportunity to advance to a specialist level. In today’s laboratories, areas of scientific exploration are the immune system, cell marker technology, bioengineering and cancer research. In the clinical areas, drug testing, therapeutic drug monitoring and biogenetics are just a few of the specialties with openings. In industry, medical laboratory scientists are needed for positions in product development, marketing, sales, quality assurance, environmental health and insurance, among others.
A medical laboratory scientist who gains experience in one of the special areas of the laboratory has the opportunity to advance to a specialist level. In today’s laboratories, areas of scientific exploration are the immune system, cell marker technology, bioengineering and cancer research. In the clinical areas, drug testing, therapeutic drug monitoring and biogenetics are just a few of the specialties with openings. In industry, medical laboratory scientists are needed for positions in product development, marketing, sales, quality assurance, environmental health and insurance, among others.
What medical
laboratory technicians do
The challenges and rewards of medicine and science — the medical laboratory technician has the best of both worlds.
The challenges and rewards of medicine and science — the medical laboratory technician has the best of both worlds.
The medical
laboratory technician performs general tests in all laboratory areas — Blood
banking, Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology and Microbiology. Working with the
supervision of a medical technologist, a medical laboratory technician hunts
for clues to the absence, presence, extent, and causes of diseases.
Medical
laboratory technicians must be accurate, dedicated and skilled. They must also
be self-motivated, and take the initiative to do what must be done everyday —
to pitch in to help the healthcare team.
Job ratings
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory technicians are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory technicians ranked 18 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked fourth in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory technicians are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory technicians ranked 18 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked fourth in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
Job
opportunities
The future long-term employment for medical laboratory technicians looks bright. Employment opportunities are expected to increase through the year 2005. Medical laboratory technicians work in a variety of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit laboratories, clinics, nursing homes, public health facilities, business and industry currently have positions open for qualified medical laboratory technicians.
The future long-term employment for medical laboratory technicians looks bright. Employment opportunities are expected to increase through the year 2005. Medical laboratory technicians work in a variety of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit laboratories, clinics, nursing homes, public health facilities, business and industry currently have positions open for qualified medical laboratory technicians.
Salaries
The national average salary median for medical laboratory technicians is approximately $26,800, although salaries vary by area of the country.
The national average salary median for medical laboratory technicians is approximately $26,800, although salaries vary by area of the country.
What it
takes to be a medical laboratory technician
All medical laboratory technicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a medical laboratory technician, the exploration never ends.
All medical laboratory technicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a medical laboratory technician, the exploration never ends.
Career preparation
To prepare for a career as a medical laboratory technician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need a combination of formal education plus clinical education in a medical laboratory technician (MLT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Approximately 200 community colleges and hospitals offer these programs. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
To prepare for a career as a medical laboratory technician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need a combination of formal education plus clinical education in a medical laboratory technician (MLT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Approximately 200 community colleges and hospitals offer these programs. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
With a
career as a medical laboratory technician, you’ll have unlimited choices.
Unlike many other careers, your education in medical laboratory technology will
prepare you directly for a job. While you’re going to school, you can work
part-time in a laboratory to earn extra money. And you could start working
full-time the day after you graduate.
Certification
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for Medical Laboratory Technician may use the initials, MLT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for Medical Laboratory Technician may use the initials, MLT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
Opportunities
for Advancement
A medical laboratory technician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has three years of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited medical technologist program, can become a medical technologist.
A medical laboratory technician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has three years of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited medical technologist program, can become a medical technologist.
The medical
technologist performs a full range of laboratory tests, from the most routine
to the most complex, with little or no supervision. Medical technologists can
be teachers, supervisors, or researchers working in new areas of scientific
exploration.
What medical
laboratory technicians do
The challenges and rewards of medicine and science — the medical laboratory technician has the best of both worlds.
The challenges and rewards of medicine and science — the medical laboratory technician has the best of both worlds.
The medical
laboratory technician performs general tests in all laboratory areas — Blood
banking, Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology and Microbiology. Working with the
supervision of a medical technologist, a medical laboratory technician hunts
for clues to the absence, presence, extent, and causes of diseases.
Medical
laboratory technicians must be accurate, dedicated and skilled. They must also
be self-motivated, and take the initiative to do what must be done everyday —
to pitch in to help the healthcare team.
Job ratings
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory technicians are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory technicians ranked 18 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked fourth in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
According to the best-selling 1999 book, Jobs Rated Almanac: The Best and Worst Jobs by Les Krantz, medical laboratory technicians are in the top 20 list of best jobs. Medical laboratory technicians ranked 18 in a list of 250 jobs. They also ranked fourth in the healthcare/medicine occupational category. The positions were scored on factors such as salary, stress levels, work environment, outlook, security and physical demands.
Job
opportunities
The future long-term employment for medical laboratory technicians looks bright. Employment opportunities are expected to increase through the year 2005. Medical laboratory technicians work in a variety of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit laboratories, clinics, nursing homes, public health facilities, business and industry currently have positions open for qualified medical laboratory technicians.
The future long-term employment for medical laboratory technicians looks bright. Employment opportunities are expected to increase through the year 2005. Medical laboratory technicians work in a variety of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit laboratories, clinics, nursing homes, public health facilities, business and industry currently have positions open for qualified medical laboratory technicians.
Salaries
The national average salary median for medical laboratory technicians is approximately $26,800, although salaries vary by area of the country.
The national average salary median for medical laboratory technicians is approximately $26,800, although salaries vary by area of the country.
What it
takes to be a medical laboratory technician
All medical laboratory technicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a medical laboratory technician, the exploration never ends.
All medical laboratory technicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a medical laboratory technician, the exploration never ends.
Career
preparation
To prepare for a career as a medical laboratory technician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need a combination of formal education plus clinical education in a medical laboratory technician (MLT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Approximately 200 community colleges and hospitals offer these programs. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
To prepare for a career as a medical laboratory technician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need a combination of formal education plus clinical education in a medical laboratory technician (MLT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Approximately 200 community colleges and hospitals offer these programs. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
With a
career as a medical laboratory technician, you’ll have unlimited choices.
Unlike many other careers, your education in medical laboratory technology will
prepare you directly for a job. While you’re going to school, you can work
part-time in a laboratory to earn extra money. And you could start working
full-time the day after you graduate.
Certification
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for Medical Laboratory Technician may use the initials, MLT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for Medical Laboratory Technician may use the initials, MLT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
Opportunities
for Advancement
A medical laboratory technician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has three years of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited medical technologist program, can become a medical technologist.
A medical laboratory technician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has three years of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited medical technologist program, can become a medical technologist.
The medical
technologist performs a full range of laboratory tests, from the most routine
to the most complex, with little or no supervision. Medical technologists can
be teachers, supervisors, or researchers working in new areas of scientific
exploration.
What
histotechnicians do
Cancer can often be detected by the appearance of cells in a tissue sample. Once a sample tissue is taken from the patient, it’s sent to the laboratory. It’s the job of the histotechnician to prepare very thin sections of body tissues for microscopic examination by a pathologist.
Cancer can often be detected by the appearance of cells in a tissue sample. Once a sample tissue is taken from the patient, it’s sent to the laboratory. It’s the job of the histotechnician to prepare very thin sections of body tissues for microscopic examination by a pathologist.
The
histotechnician must work quickly and under pressure since the answers may be
needed while the patient is in surgery. Working closely with the pathologist,
the histotechnician freezes and cuts the tissues, mounts them on slides and
stains them with special dyes to make the cell details visible under the
microscope. With the information learned from the section of tissue biopsy, the
pathologist and the surgeon find out if disease is present and if it has
spread. They can then decide on the best course of treatment for the patient.
The histotechnician
works with delicate instruments and automated equipment as well as knives,
chemicals and glass slides. He or she must value precision and have good
hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
Job
opportunities
Today, there are more jobs for histotechnicians than educated people to fill those jobs. The future long-term employment looks bright. The need is great everywhere throughout the country.
Today, there are more jobs for histotechnicians than educated people to fill those jobs. The future long-term employment looks bright. The need is great everywhere throughout the country.
Histotechnicians
have an unlimited choice of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit
laboratories, clinics, public health facilities, and industry currently have
positions open for qualified histotechnicians. Other opportunities for
histotechnicians are in industrial research, veterinary pathology, marine
biology and forensic pathology.
Salaries
The national average salary for histotechnicians is approximately $28,000, although salaries vary by area of the country.
The national average salary for histotechnicians is approximately $28,000, although salaries vary by area of the country.
What it
takes to be a histotechnician
All histotechnicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career in the histology laboratory, the exploration never ends.
All histotechnicians have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career in the histology laboratory, the exploration never ends.
Career
preparation
To prepare for a career as a histotechnician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need clinical education in a histologic technician (HT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) or an associate degree from a community college and training at a hospital. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
To prepare for a career as a histotechnician, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll need clinical education in a histologic technician (HT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) or an associate degree from a community college and training at a hospital. Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
Preparing
for a career as a histotechnician is a good investment in your future. Unlike
many other careers, your education as a histotechnician will prepare you
directly for a job. While you’re going to school, you may be able to work
part-time in a laboratory to earn extra money. And you could start working
full-time the day after you graduate.
Certification
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Certification of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for histotechnician may use the initials, HT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Certification of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for histotechnician may use the initials, HT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
Opportunities
for Advancement
A histotechnician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has one year of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited histotechnology program, can become a histotechnologist (HTL). The histotechnologist performs more complex techniques such as enzyme histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. A histotechnologist can also teach, be a supervisor in a laboratory or be the director of a school for histologic technology.
A histotechnician who earns a baccalaureate degree and either has one year of experience or attends a NAACLS accredited histotechnology program, can become a histotechnologist (HTL). The histotechnologist performs more complex techniques such as enzyme histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. A histotechnologist can also teach, be a supervisor in a laboratory or be the director of a school for histologic technology.
What
cytotechnologists do
Cells, cells, cells — that’s the work of the cytotechnologist. The skilled cytotechnologist examines human cell samples under the microscope, looking for early signs of cancer and other diseases. The cytotechnologist traces the clues to disease in the cytoplasm and nucleus of cells that have been stained with special dyes. With expert eyes, the cytotechnologist looks for the smallest abnormalities in color, shape and size that can be clues to the presence of disease.
Cells, cells, cells — that’s the work of the cytotechnologist. The skilled cytotechnologist examines human cell samples under the microscope, looking for early signs of cancer and other diseases. The cytotechnologist traces the clues to disease in the cytoplasm and nucleus of cells that have been stained with special dyes. With expert eyes, the cytotechnologist looks for the smallest abnormalities in color, shape and size that can be clues to the presence of disease.
The
cytotechnologist issues the final report on specimens that contain normal
cells. When abnormal cells are present, the cytotechnologist works with a
pathologist to arrive at a final diagnosis.
The cytotechnologist
works independently with little supervision. He/she must be patient, precise
and have relatively good eyesight. Above all, the cytotechnologist must enjoy
making decisions and taking responsibility, since his/her findings will
directly affect a patient’s course of treatment.
Job
opportunities
Today, there are more jobs for cytotechnologists than educated people to fill those jobs. The future long-term employment looks bright. The need is great everywhere throughout the country.
Today, there are more jobs for cytotechnologists than educated people to fill those jobs. The future long-term employment looks bright. The need is great everywhere throughout the country.
Cytotechnologists
have an unlimited choice of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit
laboratories, clinics, public health facilities, and industry currently have
positions open for qualified cytotechnologists.
Salaries
The national average beginning salary for cytotechnologists is approximately $32,000, although salaries vary by area of the country. Cytotechnologist supervisors average $48,000.
The national average beginning salary for cytotechnologists is approximately $32,000, although salaries vary by area of the country. Cytotechnologist supervisors average $48,000.
What it
takes to be a cytotechnologist
All cytotechnologists have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a cytotechnologist, the exploration never ends.
All cytotechnologists have certain common characteristics. They are problem solvers. They like challenge and responsibility. They are accurate, reliable, work well under pressure and are able to finish a task once started. They communicate well, both in writing and speaking. They set high standards for themselves and expect quality in the work they do. But, above all, they are deeply committed to their profession, and are truly fascinated by all that science has to offer. For someone who chooses a career as a cytotechnologist, the exploration never ends.
Career
preparation
To prepare for a career as a cytotechnologist, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll also need a combination of formal education leading to a baccalaureate degree, plus clinical education in a cytotechnology (CT) program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
To prepare for a career as a cytotechnologist, you should have a solid foundation in high school sciences — biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You’ll also need a combination of formal education leading to a baccalaureate degree, plus clinical education in a cytotechnology (CT) program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Visit the American Society for Clinical Pathology web site at www.ascp.org/bor to obtain listings of programs by state.
Preparing
for a career as a cytotechnologist is a good investment in your future. Unlike
many other careers, your education in cytotechnology will prepare you directly
for a job. While you’re going to school, you may be able to work part-time in a
laboratory to earn extra money. And you could start working full-time the day
after you graduate.
Certification
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for cytotechnology may use the initials, CT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
To be sure that laboratory workers are competent and able to perform high quality laboratory tests, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for cytotechnology may use the initials, CT(ASCP), after their name to show they are proficient in their field.
Opportunities
for Specialization
A cytotechnologist with a baccalaureate degree and five years’ experience, or a master’s degree and four years’ experience, or a doctorate degree and three years’ experience can qualify to be a Specialist in Cytotechnology. These specialists are skilled in examining all types of body specimens including needle aspirates and fine needle aspirates. Senior cytotechnologists, supervisors or educators are generally Specialists in Cytotechnology.
A cytotechnologist with a baccalaureate degree and five years’ experience, or a master’s degree and four years’ experience, or a doctorate degree and three years’ experience can qualify to be a Specialist in Cytotechnology. These specialists are skilled in examining all types of body specimens including needle aspirates and fine needle aspirates. Senior cytotechnologists, supervisors or educators are generally Specialists in Cytotechnology.
Do you want
to work directly with patients? Then a career as a phlebotomy technician is a
good choice. The laboratory depends on the phlebotomy technician to collect
quality samples from the patient to produce quality laboratory results. To do
this, the phlebotomy technician must create an atmosphere of trust and
confidence with patients while drawing blood specimens in a skillful, safe and
reliable manner.
Phlebotomy
technicians must like challenge and responsibility. They must also be accurate,
work well under pressure and communicate effectively. Because the phlebotomy
technician works directly with the patient, he or she must also act as the
"eyes and ears" of the doctors, nurses and laboratory professionals.
The phlebotomist must notice and relay any important information gathered
during interaction with patients. Phlebotomists must set high standards for
themselves and they must be deeply committed to quality health care delivery.
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