Is becoming a medical laboratory technologist right for me?
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How to become a Medical Laboratory Technologist
To become a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT), individuals must follow a specific educational and certification pathway. Here's a guide:
- Education: Obtain a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Majoring in medical laboratory science, clinical laboratory science, or a related field is recommended. The curriculum should include coursework in biology, chemistry, microbiology, mathematics, and laboratory science.
- Clinical Training: Complete clinical practicum or internship requirements as part of the bachelor's degree program. Clinical training provides hands-on experience in various areas of the clinical laboratory, such as clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology, and molecular diagnostics.
- Certification: Pursue certification through a nationally recognized certifying agency, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the American Medical Technologists (AMT). While certification is not always required for employment as an MLT, it can enhance job prospects and demonstrate competency to employers (see below).
- Pass Certification Exam: Prepare for and pass the certification examination administered by the chosen certifying agency. The exam assesses knowledge and skills in areas such as laboratory procedures, quality assurance, safety practices, and professional ethics. Upon successful completion of the exam, individuals earn the title of Certified Medical Laboratory Technologist (CMLT) or similar designation.
- State Licensure: Some states require MLTs to obtain licensure or state registration to practice. Requirements for licensure vary by state and may include additional education, training, or examination. Check with the state's health department or licensing board for specific requirements in your area.
- Continuing Education: Maintain certification by completing continuing education requirements set forth by the certifying agency. Continuing education ensures that MLTs stay updated on advances in laboratory technology, best practices, and regulatory changes in the field.
Certifications
Medical laboratory technologists can pursue certification through nationally recognized certifying agencies to demonstrate their competence and enhance their job prospects. Here are some primary certifications available for MLTs:
- American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) - Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) Certification: The ASCP offers MLS certification to individuals who have completed a bachelor's degree program in medical laboratory science or a related field and met the eligibility requirements. ASCP-MLS certification demonstrates proficiency in performing complex laboratory tests and analyses across various disciplines of clinical laboratory science.
- American Medical Technologists (AMT) - Medical Laboratory Technologist (MT) Certification: The AMT offers MT certification to individuals who have completed a bachelor's degree program in medical technology or a related field and met the eligibility requirements. AMT MT certification validates competency in laboratory procedures, safety practices, and quality assurance measures.
- National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA) - Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) Certification: The NCA offers MLS certification to individuals who have completed a bachelor's degree program in medical laboratory science or a related field and met the eligibility requirements. NCA MLS certification signifies proficiency in performing laboratory tests and contributing to the delivery of quality patient care.
- American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) - Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) Certification: The AAB offers MLS certification to individuals who have completed a bachelor's degree program in medical laboratory science or a related field and met the eligibility requirements. AAB MLS certification demonstrates competency in laboratory testing and adherence to professional standards in clinical laboratory practice.