Medical laboratory technician or clinical laboratory technicians, are responsible for running medical tests on patients to assist physicians in discovering and diagnosing medical ailments. Tests include blood analysis, tissues sample tests as well as cellular testing. Technicians summarize their findings for physicians and document any abnormalities. The U.S. Department of Labor suggests that the job market for medical laboratory technicians will expand by 14 percent between the years of 2008 to 2018.
Educational Requirements
Entry level medical laboratory technician (MLT) positions require an associate degree from a school accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). According to the U.S. Department of Labor, as of 2010, the NAACLS has accredited a total of 479 medical technician programs throughout the United States.
In order to apply for a medical laboratory technician position in the state of Georgia you must possess an associate degree as a Medical Lab Technologist (MLT). The NAACLS features a database that outlines all universities and community colleges that offer an MLT degree program (See Reference).
Certification
MLT certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology or American Medical Technologists is required in order to be employed as a medical laboratory technician in Georgia.
The American Society for Clinical Pathology requires applicants for the MLT Certification Exam who have obtained an associate degree from an institution that is accredited by the NAACLS, sit an examination. This examination is held throughout the year and as of 2010 requires an application fee of $185.00.
The American Medical Technologies requires applicants for the MLT Certification exam to hold an associate degree accredited by the NAACLS. Applicants must pay a $130.00 application fee, as of 2010.
Work Experience
Completion of an internship at a medical laboratory in a hospital or other medical setting is required by many medical laboratory technician employers. While the state of Georgia does not require MLT’s to become licensed in order to work, employers may require anywhere from six months to two years of laboratory experience.
The institution where you obtain your associate degree will be able to suggest internship or entry-level work within hospitals around your area or you may contact hospital/doctor offices around your area and inquire about MLT internships or apprenticeships.
