The practice of modern medicine would be impossible without the tests performed in
the clinical laboratory. It is estimated that 70-80% of all patient diagnosis is made
on the basis of laboratory tests.
There is a nationwide shortage of qualified clinical laboratory personnel.
A medical team of pathologists, specialists, 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. Clinical Laboratory Personnel need
good judgment and the ability to work under pressure. Close attention to detail is
essential, because small differences or changes in test substances or numerical readouts
can be crucial for patient care. Manual dexterity and normal color vision are highly
desirable.
Employment Options:
For more information on a Medical Laboratory Science career, check out the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Biotechnology/General Science Technician Career
Graduates of the Allegany College of Maryland's MLT program have always found employment in both traditional clinical laboratories as well as employment as general science technicians in a variety of settings due to the transferable science skills.
Some Examples of MLT graduates working in nontraditional (non-clinical) lab settings:
Allegany College of Maryland's Medical Laboratory Technology program is accredited
by:
National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS)
5600 N. River Road, Suite 720, Rosemont, IL 60018-5119.
