Medical Laboratory Assistants/Technicians (often abbreviated to MLAT) are skilled healthcare professionals responsible for conducting laboratory tests and analyses. Working behind the scenes in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and other healthcare settings, Medical Lab Technicians play a vital role in providing accurate and timely laboratory results that inform medical and research decisions.
As such, students who graduate from Medical Lab Technician programs in Ontario can expect to discover a diverse set of opportunities within the healthcare field, ranging from hands-on laboratory diagnostic work to more research and administrative focused positions in institutions. In other words, whether you’re the kind of person who is drawn to a fast-paced environment or a more innovative avenue, there’s no shortage of career opportunities.
In the following post, we’ve outlined some of the most interesting paths out there. So if you’re curious about where you could end up with this diploma, here’s some food for thought.
Hospital Laboratories
Hospitals are one of the largest employers for lab technicians in many cities. In their laboratories, Medical Laboratory Technicians can play a vital role conducting a wide range of diagnostic tests used in patient care. Medical Lab Technician graduates could be expected to perform diagnostic work around blood, urine, and tissue samples, and perform tests related to wider hospital work in hematology, microbiology, and immunology.
Diagnostic Laboratories
These specialized facilities are often situated within the private sector and may run tests for healthcare providers outside of the hospital setting, such as for private clinics. Medical Lab Technicians working in this setting would perform similar diagnostic work as they would in a hospital setting, but may also be expected to have a broader scope of responsibilities depending on the size of the lab. Such responsibilities may include file and patient management, as well as coordinating with physicians offices when diagnostic requests have been completed.
Blood Banks
Some Medical Lab Technicians find employment in blood banks where they are responsible for ensuring the safety and compatibility of blood products used in transfusions and other medical procedures. This could include blood typing, antibody screening, and other tests to identify suitable blood donors and recipients. Medical Lab Technicians might also have duties here that involve storing, processing, and maintaining the blood products that make up the inventory, while adhering to strict quality control measures.
Research Institutions
In research institutions, Medical Laboratory Assistants might provide supporting roles to scientific discovery and medical advancement. There is always a need in research to conduct laboratory tests, analyze data, and interpret the results. Research fields may range from pathology, to the development of new drugs, to genetic testing, and even biomedical research.
Telemedicine
Since the Pandemic, telemedicine has certainly grown and expanded its offerings. Medical Lab Technicians in these circumstances may perform many of their usual testing duties and still work in laboratory settings, but would likely have additional duties such as transmitting results electronically as well as collecting specimens for their tests. It may also involve commuting to different clinics to assist should in-person work be mandated.
Public Health Units
Medical Lab Technicians are also sometimes employed by large scale public health units and government agencies that cover wide expanses of territory. This could include working for regional or provincial agencies and departments, monitoring the spread of diseases and outbreaks, as well as tracking general trends in the health of the population. Much of the analysis and research performed here can help shape and inform public health policies and actions.
Conclusion
Overall, regardless of the exact career path you end up following, the Medical Lab Technician profession offers a rewarding career path for graduates who are passionate about science, healthcare, and making a difference.
With the demand for skilled Medical Lab Technicians on the rise and a variety of opportunities for career advancement, pursuing a career as a Medical Lab Technician can lead to a fulfilling and meaningful professional journey in the healthcare industry.
Frequently Asked Questions about Medical Lab Assistant / Technician Programs
What are some good soft skills to succeed as a Medical Lab Technician?
The most successful Medical Lab Technicians typically possess a unique set of skills and qualities that enable them to excel in their profession. Things like having a strong attention to detail and good analytical skills can be essential for performing accurate tests and ensuring reliable results.
Additionally, being able to communicate efficiently and work with a team is critical for the collaborative elements that often come with lab work.
Are you looking to quickly graduate in a career-oriented program? Or maybe you already had a career and are looking to make the switch to something new?
Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician training is one of the many paths that can lead to rewarding opportunities for an in-demand career and it’s one of the programs we offer here at CTS Canadian Career College. Our career services department is also here to help ensure every graduate knows what their career path options are and how to capitalize on them.
If you’re interested in learning more about this program, fill in the form on the right side of this page or send us an email at [email protected].