THC Science

A medical technologist (MT) is a healthcare professional who performs chemical, hematological, immunologic, microscopic, and bacteriological diagnostic analyses on body fluids such as blood, urine, sputum, stool, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), peritoneal fluid, pericardial fluid, and synovial fluid, as well as other specimens. Medical technologists work in clinical laboratories at hospitals, doctor's offices, reference labs, and biotechnology labs.

Educational requirements

A medical technologist typically earns a bachelor's degree in Medical Technology (also known as Clinical Laboratory Science) or in a life science, in which case certification from an accredited training program is also required. In most four-year medical technology degree programs, the student attends classroom courses for 3 years and clinical rotations for 1 year. This combination is called a 3+1 program; 2+2 and 4+1 programs also exist, offering the respective numbers of years in classroom and clinical experiences. In clinical rotations, the student experiences hands-on learning in each discipline of the laboratory and, under supervision, performs diagnostic testing in a functioning laboratory. Although not compensated, a student in the clinical phase of training usually works 40 hours per week for 20 to 26 weeks, experiencing work as a full-time employee. In addition, limited universities now offer graduate level programs to allow students who have undergraduate degrees in disciplines unrelated to science to enter the field.

In the United States, a similar two-year degree qualifies the graduate to work as medical laboratory technician (MLT). The job is virtually the same, but a medical technologist is trained much more extensively in the theory of the various MT disciplines. The shorter training time is attractive to many students, but there are disadvantages to this route. For example, MTs usually earn higher salaries than MLTs, and some institutions do not employ MLTs at all.

In Canada, three-year college programs are offered that include seven semesters, two of them comprising an unpaid internship. The student graduates before taking a standard examination (such as the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science, or CSMLS, exam) to be qualified as a medical laboratory technologist.^[1] Many MLTs go on to receive a bachelor of science degree after they are certified, but a few university programs affiliate with a college MLT program to allow students to graduate with both MLT certification and a degree.

Certification and licensing

Medical technologists who are certified by and remain in good standing with the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) are entitled to use the credential "MT" after their names.^[2]^[3] If technologists are credentialed by the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel, the credential "CLS" (Clinical Laboratory Scientist) may be used.^[4] Another certifying agency for medical technologists is the American Medical Technologists located in Rosemont, Illinois. AMT has states societies which publish newsletters, and hold continuing education credit seminars during the year with a national meeting in the summer. Additional certifying agencies include the National Healthcareer Association, National Phlebotomy Association, the National Center for Competency Testing, and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.

In the United States, the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA '88) define the level of qualification required to perform tests of various complexity.^[5] Medical technologist is the highest level of qualification, and MTs are generally qualified to perform the most complex clinical testing including HLA testing (also known as tissue typing) and blood type reference testing.

In addition to the national certification, 11 states (California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and West Virginia) and Puerto Rico also require a state license. California, Florida, and New York develop and administer their own examinations. All states except California require documentation from a professional certification agency before issuing state certification. A person applying for state certification may also be expected to submit fingerprints, education and training records, and competency certification. Some states also require completion of a specified number of continuing education contact hours prior to issuing or renewing a license.

Some states recognize another state's license if it is equal or more stringent, but California does not recognize any outside certification or any other state license.ASCLS licensing information

Specialty areas

Most medical technologists are generalists, skilled in all areas of the lab. However some MTs are specialists, qualified by unique undergraduate education or additional training to perform more complex analyses than usual within a specific field. Specialties include clinical biochemistry, hematology, coagulation, microbiology, bacteriology, virology, parasitology, mycology, immunology, immunohematology (blood bank), histopathology, cytopathology, genetics, cytogenetics, and IVF labs. Medical technologists with a specialty may use additional credentials, such as "SBB" (Specialist in Blood Banking) from the American Association of Blood Banks, or "SH" (Specialist in Hematology) from the ASCP. These additional notations may be appended to the base credential, for example, "MT(ASCP)SBB".

Job duties

A medical technologist analyzes human fluid samples using techniques available to the clinical laboratory, such as manual white blood cell differentials, bone marrow counts, analysis via microscopy, and advanced analytical equipment. Medical technologists assist doctors and nurses in choosing the correct lab tests and collection methods; labeling and handling specimens; and interpreting the resulting analysis.

The technologist must recognize anomalies in their test results and know how to correct problems with the instrumentation. They monitor, screen, and troubleshoot analytical devices by processes including calibration, quality control, "on the fly" or run-by-run assessment, statistical control of observed data, and recording normal operations. To maintain the integrity of the laboratory process, the medical technologist recognizes factors that could introduce error and rejects contaminated or sub-standard specimens.

Common tests performed by medical technologists are complete blood count (CBC), comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), electrolyte panel, liver function tests (LFT), renal function tests (RFT), thyroid function test (TFT), urinalysis, coagulation profile, lipid profile, blood type, semen analysis (for fertility and post-vasectomy studies), serological studies and routine cultures. In some facilities that have few phlebotomists, or none at all, (such as in rural areas) medical technologists may perform phlebotomy on patients. In addition, some medical technologists become phlebotomists either before or after receiving their medical technology degree.

Role in the healthcare process

A medical technologist's role is to provide accurate laboratory results in a timely manner. Safeguards, such as experimental controls, calibration of laboratory instruments, delta checks (monitoring of significant changes within a normal series of results, formerly known as the "previous patients check"^[6]), and periodic surveys from the College of American Pathologists (CAP), ensure accuracy. Laboratory results aid clinical practitioners in confirming or ruling out diagnoses, monitoring chronic disease changes, and analyzing the effects of medical therapies.

Job title

The informal abbreviations of job titles may be a source of confusion. Medical technologists are often called "med techs", but this shorthand term is shared by other healthcare employees, including pharmacy techs, x-ray techs and, formerly, respiratory techs, (now called respiratory therapists) and medical technicians.

There is a formal distinction between a technician and a technologist that is not always understood by others. Both may be certified or registered by one or more nationally-recognized professional organizations, but technicians have a two-year associates degree, and may have less classroom training than other professionals. Technologists have a bachelors degree and usually do more difficult, complex analyses than technicians are trained to do. Technologists generally earn a higher income than technicians do.

Rarely, some facilities do not differentiate between MTs and MLTs, and both are only referred to as "med techs" or "lab techs". In these situations they are usually paid the same wages and perform the same duties.

Shortage

The United States is currently experiencing a shortage of medical technologists as well as virtually all other healthcare professionals. Student enrollment in MT programs is steadily declining. Many universities have cut budgets for Clinical Lab Science programs, and some have closed them altogether. According to an article in the October 2008 issue of Critical Values (Vol. 1, Issue 4), a critical shortage of MTs is swiftly approaching.

"The number of technologist/scientist and technician education programs has declined by more than 50% since 1970, with the most dramatic decline in technologist/scientist programs, 71% of which closed between 1970 and 2007. In contrast, the number of phlebotomy training programs increased sixfold from 1987 to 2003.... The shortage of technologists/scientists and technicians is expected to worsen over the next decade with demographic changes and requirements."^[7]

A primary reason for this decline is the vast disparity in salary compared to other healthcare workers.^[8] A typical medical technologist's salary is only 50% to 70% of that of a registered nurse (RN), depending on geographical location.^[9] For instance, in Washington, D.C., the median MT salary is $55,000, compared to $67,695 for a registered nurse with an equivalent amount of experience. United States Bureau of Labor Statistics statistics from 2005 list the median annual income for a medical technologist in California as $64,540, the highest average in the nation. A major reason for this disparity is lack of public view for the profession. Hospitals and other clinical laboratories prefer to cut costs in ways that are less obvious to patients, so when expenses are reduced, MTs are more likely than nursing staff to be affected by it.

Another reason for the shortage of medical technologists in the United States is an aging workforce and a lack of interest among students and young medical professionals.

"The average laboratory professional is believed to be almost 50. Given the number of new laboratory professionals needed due to increasing requirements for laboratory services and the number of employees within 5-10 years of retirement, demand is expected to far exceed the number anticipated to be available for hire."^[10]

A positive effect of this shift is that the number of job openings for MTs will increase in the next decade as baby boomers retire and make way for new staff in laboratories. But at the same time, the workload will also increase for the young, inexperienced medical technologists as the elderly population increases and become greater consumers of health care. This will only increase the need for more people to enter the profession, and the number of students currently in training programs will not be sufficient to satisfy the future vacancies and the increased work load.

One possible way to decrease the shortage is to make secondary and post-secondary educators and advisers aware of both the benefits associated with degrees from accredited medical technology programs, and urge them to inform their students about the profession. Students should be aware that medical technologists perform complex laboratory testing requiring accuracy and integrity, and that a degree in medical technology can lead to satisfying wages, management opportunities, or even a path to another professional career, such as pharmacist, physician, or laboratory equipment sales or repair.

External links

References

^ ASCP certification requirements
^ ASCP career information
^ AAB certification requirements
^ National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel
^ Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments
^ Arkansas State University Hematology Course Overview
^ "Laboratory Medicine: A National Status Report"
^ "A new crisis in medical technology - shortage of technical personnel". Medical Laboratory Observer. Retrieved 2009-03-14.
^ "Health systems grappling with shortage of lab techs". Baltimore Business Journal. Retrieved 2009-03-14.
^ Epner, Paul L. (October 2008). "Awareness - The 'A' Factor". Critical Values. 1 (4). Chicago IL: American Society for Clinical Pathology: 15–17. Retrieved 14 March 2009.

[1] ASCP certification requirements

[2] ASCP career information

[3] AAB certification requirements

[4] National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel

[5] Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments

[6] Arkansas State University Hematology Course Overview

[7] "Laboratory Medicine: A National Status Report"

[8] "A new crisis in medical technology - shortage of technical personnel". Medical Laboratory Observer. Retrieved 2009-03-14.

[9] "Health systems grappling with shortage of lab techs". Baltimore Business Journal. Retrieved 2009-03-14.

[10] Epner, Paul L. (October 2008). "Awareness - The 'A' Factor". Critical Values. 1 (4). Chicago IL: American Society for Clinical Pathology: 15–17. Retrieved 14 March 2009.

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@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
 [[File:Lab tech.JPG|thumb|200px|Lab tech in his work environment.]]
-A '''medical technologist''' (MT) is a [[healthcare professional]] who performs [[biochemistry|chemical]], [[hematology|hematological]], [[immunology|immunologic]], [[microscopy|microscopic]], and [[microbiology|bacteriological]] [[diagnostic]] analyses on [[body fluids]] such as [[blood]], [[urine]], [[sputum]], [[feces|stool]], [[cerebrospinal fluid]] (CSF), peritoneal fluid, [[pericardial fluid]], and [[synovial fluid]], as well as other specimens. Medical technologists work in [[Medical laboratory|clinical laboratories]] at [[hospitals]], doctor's offices, reference labs, and within the biotechnology industry.
+A '''medical technologist''' (MT) is a [[healthcare professional]] who performs [[biochemistry|chemical]], [[hematology|hematological]], [[immunology|immunologic]], [[microscopy|microscopic]], and [[microbiology|bacteriological]] [[diagnostic]] analyses on [[body fluids]] such as [[blood]], [[urine]], [[sputum]], [[feces|stool]], [[cerebrospinal fluid]] (CSF), peritoneal fluid, [[pericardial fluid]], and [[synovial fluid]], as well as other specimens. Medical technologists work in [[Medical laboratory|clinical laboratories]] at [[hospital]]s, doctor's offices, reference labs, and biotechnology labs.
 ==Educational requirements==
-In most four-year degree programs, the student attends classroom courses for 3 years and clinical rotations for 1 year. This combination is called a 3+1 program; there are also 2+2 and 4+1 programs. In clinical rotations, the student experiences hands-on learning in each discipline of the laboratory. Under supervision, the student performs diagnostic testing in a functioning laboratory. Although not compensated, the student usually works 40 hours a week for 20 to 26 weeks, experiencing work as a full-time employee. A medical technologist typically earns a [[bachelor's degree]] in [[Medical Technology]] (Clinical Laboratory Science) or in a life science, in which case certification from an accredited training program is also required. Limited universities now offer graduate level programs for career changes with undergraduate degrees in disciplines unrelated to science.
+A medical technologist typically earns a [[bachelor's degree]] in [[Medical Technology]] (also known as Clinical Laboratory Science) or in a life science, in which case certification from an accredited training program is also required.  In most four-year medical technology degree programs, the student attends classroom courses for 3 years and clinical rotations for 1 year. This combination is called a 3+1 program; 2+2 and 4+1 programs also exist, offering the respective numbers of years in classroom and clinical experiences. In clinical rotations, the student experiences hands-on learning in each discipline of the laboratory and, under supervision, performs diagnostic testing in a functioning laboratory. Although not compensated, a student in the clinical phase of training usually works 40 hours per week for 20 to 26 weeks, experiencing work as a full-time employee.  In addition, limited universities now offer graduate level programs to allow students who have undergraduate degrees in disciplines unrelated to science to enter the field.
-There are two year programs as well, but rather than being called a "Medical Technologist", the graduate is known as an MLT (Medical Laboratory Technician).  The job is virtually the same, but the 4 year degree Medical Technologist earns a higher income and is trained much more extensively in the theory of the various MT disciplines.  Some institutions, however, do not employ MLTs.
+In the United States, a similar two-year degree qualifies the graduate to work as medical laboratory technician (MLT).  The job is virtually the same, but a medical technologist is trained much more extensively in the theory of the various MT disciplines.  The shorter training time is attractive to many students, but there are disadvantages to this route.  For example, MTs usually earn higher salaries than MLTs, and some institutions do not employ MLTs at all.
-In Canada, 3 year diploma college programs are offered with 7 semesters, two being an unpaid internship. The student graduates  before taking their standards examination (example: CSMLS) to be qualified as a Medical Laboratory Technologist or MLT.<ref>http://www.ascp.org/FunctionalNavigation/certification/GetCertified/TechnicianCertification.aspx</ref> Many MLT's go on to receive their Bachelor of Science after their diploma. There are a select number of university programs that affiliate with a college MLT program allowing the student to graduate with both their degree and diploma.
+In Canada, three-year college programs are offered that include seven semesters, two of them comprising an unpaid internship. The student graduates before taking a standard examination (such as the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science, or CSMLS, exam) to be qualified as a medical laboratory technologist.<ref>[http://www.ascp.org/FunctionalNavigation/certification/GetCertified/TechnicianCertification.aspx ASCP certification requirements]</ref> Many MLTs go on to receive a bachelor of science degree after they are certified, but a few university programs affiliate with a college MLT program to allow students to graduate with both MLT certification and a degree.<!-- Is this last sentence specific to Canadian MLTs or is it true of US programs as well?  If the latter is the case, these two paragraphs need to be rearranged somewhat. -->
 ==Certification and licensing==
 [[File:Lab tech at microscope 2.jpg|thumb|225px|Med tech examining a slide.]]
+Medical technologists who are certified by and remain in good standing with the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or  the American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) are entitled to use the credential "MT" after their names.<ref>[http://www.ascp.org/certification/CertifyingExaminations/ ASCP career information]</ref><ref>[http://www.aab.org/mt.htm AAB certification requirements]</ref>  If technologists are credentialed by the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel, the credential "CLS" (Clinical Laboratory Scientist) may be used.<ref>[http://www.nca-info.org/ National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel]</ref>  Another certifying agency for medical technologists is the American Medical Technologists located in Rosemont, [[Illinois]]. AMT has states societies which publish newsletters, and hold continuing education credit seminars during the year with a national meeting in the summer. Additional certifying agencies include the [[National Healthcareer Association]], National Phlebotomy Association, the National Center for Competency Testing, and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
+In the [[United States]], the [[Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments]] (CLIA '88) define the level of qualification required to perform tests of various complexity.<ref>[http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/clia/ Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments]</ref>  Medical technologist is the highest level of qualification, and MTs are generally qualified to perform the most complex clinical testing including [[Human leukocyte antigen|HLA]] testing (also known as tissue typing) and [[blood type|blood type reference]] testing.
-Medical technologists who are certified by and remain in good standing with the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)[http://www.ascp.org/certification/CertifyingExaminations/] are entitled to use the credential "MT" after their names, as well as "MT" for those certified by the American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB)[http://www.aab.org/mt.htm].  If credentialed by the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel [http://www.nca-info.org/], the credential "CLS" (Clinical Laboratory Scientist) may be used. Another certifying agency for medical technologists is the American Medical Technologists located in Rosemont, [[Illinois]]. AMT has states societies which publish newsletters, and hold continuing education credit seminars during the year with a national meeting in the summer. Additional certifying agencies include the [[National Healthcareer Association]], National Phlebotomy Association, the National Center for Competency Testing and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
+In addition to the national certification, 11 states (California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and West Virginia) and Puerto Rico also require a state license.  California, Florida, and New York develop and administer their own examinations.  All states except California require documentation from a professional certification agency before issuing state certification.  A person applying for state certification may also be expected to submit fingerprints, education and training records, and competency certification.  Some states also require completion of a specified number of continuing education contact hours prior to issuing or renewing a license.
-In the [[United States]], the [[Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments]] (CLIA '88)[http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/clia/] define the level of qualification required to perform tests of various complexity. A medical technologist holds the highest such qualification, and is in general qualified to perform the most complex clinical testing including [[Human leukocyte antigen|HLA]] testing (tissue-typing) and [[blood type|blood type reference]] testing.
+Some states recognize another state's license if it is equal or more stringent, but California does not recognize any outside certification or any other state license.[http://www.ascls.org/jobs/grads/personnel_licensure.asp  ASCLS licensing information]
-In addition to the national certification, 11 states also require a state license (i.e. California, Hawaii, Florida, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Louisiana, Nevada, West Virginia, Montana, Georgia.) California, Florida, and New York develop and administer their own examinations.  Puerto Rico also has licensure.   Most states (except California) require documentation of certification from a certification agency (see infra).  You may also be expected to submit fingerprinting, documentation of certification, education, training, and competency. Some states require documentation and completion of a specified number of continuing education contact hours prior to issuing or renewing a license. California does not recognize any certification or any other state license.  Check with the state you wish to locate to regarding reciprocity; some will recognize another state's license if it is equal or more stringent.[http://www.ascls.org/jobs/grads/personnel_licensure.asp]
 ==Specialty areas==
-Most medical technologists are ''generalists'', skilled in all areas of the lab. However some MTs are ''specialists'', qualified from unique undergraduate education or additional training. Specialties include [[clinical chemistry|clinical biochemistry]], [[hematology]], [[coagulation]], [[microbiology]], [[bacteriology]], [[virology]], [[parasitology]], [[mycology]], [[immunology]], [[immunohematology]] ([[blood bank]]), [[histopathology]], [[cytopathology]], [[genetics]], [[cytogenetics]], and [[IVF]] labs. Medical technologists with a specialty may use additional credentials, such as "SBB" (Specialist in Blood Banking) from the American Association of Blood Banks, or "SH" (Specialist in Hematology) from the ASCP. These additional accolades may be appended to the base credential, for example, "MT(ASCP)SBB".
+Most medical technologists are ''generalists'', skilled in all areas of the lab. However some MTs are ''specialists'', qualified by unique undergraduate education or additional training to perform more complex analyses than usual within a specific field. Specialties include [[clinical chemistry|clinical biochemistry]], [[hematology]], [[coagulation]], [[microbiology]], [[bacteriology]], [[virology]], [[parasitology]], [[mycology]], [[immunology]], [[immunohematology]] ([[blood bank]]), [[histopathology]], [[cytopathology]], [[genetics]], [[cytogenetics]], and [[IVF]] labs.  Medical technologists with a specialty may use additional credentials, such as "SBB" (Specialist in Blood Banking) from the American Association of Blood Banks, or "SH" (Specialist in Hematology) from the ASCP. These additional notations may be appended to the base credential, for example, "MT(ASCP)SBB".
 ==Job duties==
+A medical technologist analyzes human fluid samples using techniques available to the clinical laboratory, such as manual white blood cell differentials, bone marrow counts, analysis via microscopy, and advanced analytical equipment. Medical technologists assist [[Physician|doctors]] and [[nurse]]s in choosing the correct lab tests and collection methods; labeling and handling specimens; and interpreting the resulting analysis.
+The technologist must recognize anomalies in their test results and know how to correct problems with the instrumentation. They monitor, screen, and troubleshoot analytical devices by processes including calibration, quality control, "on the fly" or run-by-run assessment, statistical control of observed data, and recording normal operations. To maintain the integrity of the laboratory process, the medical technologist recognizes factors that could introduce error and rejects contaminated or sub-standard specimens.
-A medical technologist analyzes human fluid samples using techniques available to the clinical laboratory, such as manual white blood cell differentials, bone marrow counts, analysis via microscopy and advanced analytical equipment. Medical technologists assist [[Physician|doctors]] and [[nurse]]s in choosing the correct lab tests and collection methods; labeling and handling specimens; and interpreting the resulting analysis.
+Common tests performed by medical technologists are [[complete blood count]] (CBC), [[comprehensive metabolic panel]] (CMP), electrolyte panel, [[liver function tests]] (LFT), renal function tests (RFT), thyroid function test (TFT), [[urinalysis]], coagulation profile, lipid profile, [[blood type]], semen analysis (for fertility and post-vasectomy studies), serological studies and routine [[Microbiology|cultures]].  In some facilities that have few [[phlebotomist]]s, or none at all, (such as in rural areas) medical technologists may perform phlebotomy on patients.  In addition, some medical technologists become phlebotomists either before or after receiving their medical technology degree.
-The technologist must recognize abnormalities and know how to correct them. They monitor, screen, and troubleshoot analytical devices including calibration, quality control, "on the fly" or run-by-run assessment, statistical control of observed data, and recording normal operations. To maintain the integrity of the laboratory process, the medical technologist recognizes factors that could introduce error and rejects contaminated or sub-standard specimens.
-Common tests performed by medical technologists are [[complete blood count]] (CBC), [[comprehensive metabolic panel]] (CMP), electrolyte panel, [[liver function tests]] (LFT), renal function tests (RFT), thyroid function test (TFT), [[urinalysis]], coagulation profile, lipid profile, [[blood type]], semen analysis (for fertility and post vasectomy studies), serological studies and routine [[Microbiology|cultures]].
-In some facilities with few  [[phlebotomist]]s, or none at all,  Medical Technologists may perform phlebotomy on patients. This is common in smaller facilities, and rural areas. Many Medical Technologists are very skilled in phlebotomy, and some become phlebotomists before achieving their Medical Technology degree.
 ==Role in the healthcare process==
+A medical technologist's role is to provide accurate laboratory results in a timely manner.  Safeguards, such as experimental controls, calibration of laboratory instruments, delta checks (monitoring of significant changes within a normal series of results, formerly known as the "previous patients check"<ref>[http://www.clt.astate.edu/wwilliam/hem_i_qa_qc.htm Arkansas State University Hematology Course Overview]</ref>), and periodic surveys from the [[College of American Pathologists]] (CAP), ensure accuracy.  Laboratory results aid clinical practitioners in confirming or ruling out diagnoses, monitoring chronic disease changes, and analyzing the effects of medical therapies.
+==Job title==
-A medical technologist's role is to provide accurate laboratory results in a timely manner. The results are used to confirm a diagnosis or to monitor treatment. Safeguards ensure accuracy. Safeguards include experimental controls, calibration of laboratory instruments, delta checks (significant changes within a normal series of results. Formerly known as the 'previous patient’s check<ref>http://www.clt.astate.edu/wwilliam/hem_i_qa_qc.htm</ref>), and periodic surveys from the [[College of American Pathologists]] (CAP).
+The informal abbreviations of job titles may be a source of confusion.  Medical technologists are often called "med techs", but this shorthand term is shared by other healthcare employees, including [[pharmacy technician|pharmacy techs]], [[x-ray technician|x-ray techs]] and, formerly, [[respiratory tech]]s, (now called respiratory therapists) and medical technicians.
-Laboratory results aid clinical practitioners in confirming or ruling out diagnoses, chronic disease changes, and effects of medical therapies.
+There is a formal distinction between a [[technician]] and a [[technologist]] that is not always understood by others.  Both may be certified or registered by one or more nationally-recognized professional organizations, but technicians have a two-year associates degree, and may have less classroom training than other professionals.  Technologists have a bachelors degree and usually do more difficult, complex analyses than technicians are trained to do.  Technologists generally earn a higher income than technicians do.
-== Job title nomenclature ==
-The informal abbreviations of job titles may be a source of confusion. There are many "techs" in a hospital environment, including [[pharmacy technician|pharmacy techs]], [[x-ray technician|x-ray techs]], and (formerly) [[respiratory tech]]s, (now called Therapists).  Medical technologists are called "med techs." This shorthand term is occasionally used by other healthcare employees, including medical technologists.
+Rarely, some facilities do not differentiate between MTs and MLTs, and both are only referred to as "med techs" or "lab techs".  In these situations they are usually paid the same wages and perform the same duties.
-Formally, there is a distinction between a [[technician]] and a [[technologist]]. Technicians have a two year associates degree, and may have less classroom training. A medical laboratory ''technician'' (MLT) has an associates degree and can be certified or registered by one or more nationally-recognized professional organizations.  A medical ''technologist'' (MT) has a baccalaureate degree, and can be certified or registered by one or more nationally-recognized professional organizations.  The job duties of both degrees are nearly identical, with the exception that the 4 year Technologist makes a higher income.
-Rarely, some facilities do not differentiate between MT and MLT, and both are only referred to as "Med Techs" or "Lab Techs", they are paid the same wages and perform the same duties.
 ==Shortage==
+The United States is currently experiencing a shortage of medical technologists as well as virtually all other healthcare professionals.  Student enrollment in MT programs is steadily declining.  Many universities have cut budgets for Clinical Lab Science programs, and some have closed them altogether.  According to an article in the October 2008 issue of ''Critical Values'' (Vol. 1, Issue 4), a critical shortage of MTs is swiftly approaching.
-Currently, the United States is experiencing a labor shortage for medical technologists as well as virtually all other healthcare positions.  Student enrollment in MT programs is steadily declining. Many universities cut  budgets for Clinical Lab Science programs, or closed them altogether. According to an article in the October 2008 issue of "Critical Values" (Vol. 1, Issue 4), there is a swiftly approaching critical shortage of MT's. "The number of technologist/scientist and technician education programs has declined by more than 50% since 1970, with the most dramatic decline in technologist/scientist programs, 71% of which closed between 1970 and 2007. In contrast, the number of phlebotomy training programs increased sixfold from 1987 to 2003....The shortage of technologists/scientists and technicians is expected to worsen over the next decade with demographic changes and requirements." <ref>"From Laboratory Medicine: A National Status Report," pg. 12-14)</ref>
+<blockquote>"The number of technologist/scientist and technician education programs has declined by more than 50% since 1970, with the most dramatic decline in technologist/scientist programs, 71% of which closed between 1970 and 2007. In contrast, the number of phlebotomy training programs increased sixfold from 1987 to 2003....  The shortage of technologists/scientists and technicians is expected to worsen over the next decade with demographic changes and requirements."<ref>[http://www.futurelabmedicine.org/NationalStatusRptContent.aspx "Laboratory Medicine: A National Status Report"]</ref></blockquote>
-The primary reason for this decline is the vast disparity in salary, as compared to other healthcare workers.<ref>{{Cite web
+A primary reason for this decline is the vast disparity in salary compared to other healthcare workers.<ref>{{Cite web
 | title = A new crisis in medical technology - shortage of technical personnel
 | work = Medical Laboratory Observer
 | accessdate = 2009-03-14
 | url = http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3230/is_n2_v20/ai_6366153
-}}</ref>  A typical medical technologist's salary is only 50 percent to 70 percent that of a registered nurse (RN), depending on geographical location.<ref>{{Cite web
+}}</ref>  A typical medical technologist's salary is only 50% to 70% of that of a registered nurse (RN), depending on geographical location.<ref>{{Cite web
-| title = Health systems grappling with shortage of lab techs - Baltimore Business Journal:
+| title = Health systems grappling with shortage of lab techs
+| work = Baltimore Business Journal
 | accessdate = 2009-03-14
 | url = http://baltimore.bizjournals.com/baltimore/stories/2008/04/21/focus2.html
-}}</ref>  For instance, in Washington, D.C., the median MT salary is $55,000 compared to $67,695 for a Registered Nurse, assuming equivalent levels of experience. The 2005 data for the US Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median annual income for a medical technologist in California as $64,540. That is the highest average in the nation. The main reason for this is lack of public view for the profession, another being a clinical laboratory is a cost center for a hospital.  Saving money for hospitals must begin where the patients can not directly see the effect. This is a concern of most laboratory professionals in today's healthcare system.<ref>[http://www.ascp.org/FunctionalNavigation/publicationsjournalsandbooks/CriticalValues_1.aspx]</ref>
+}}</ref>  For instance, in Washington, D.C., the median MT salary is $55,000, compared to $67,695 for a registered nurse with an equivalent amount of experience.  United States Bureau of Labor Statistics statistics from 2005 list the median annual income for a medical technologist in California as $64,540, the highest average in the nation.  A major reason for this disparity is lack of public view for the profession.  Hospitals and other clinical laboratories prefer to cut costs in ways that are less obvious to patients, so when expenses are reduced, MTs are more likely than nursing staff to be affected by it.
+Another reason for the shortage of medical technologists in the United States is an aging workforce and a lack of interest among students and young medical professionals.
-The article "Awareness - The 'A' Factor" by P. Epner, states that "the average laboratory professional is believed to be almost 50.<ref>{{Cite web
-| title = Health care faces a possible shortage in the blood lab
+<blockquote>"The average laboratory professional is believed to be almost 50.  Given the number of new laboratory professionals needed due to increasing requirements for laboratory services and the number of employees within 5-10 years of retirement, demand is expected to far exceed the number anticipated to be available for hire."<ref>{{cite journal
-| work = Daily Journal Online, Archives
+| last = Epner
-| accessdate = 2009-03-14
+| first = Paul L.
-| url = http://www.dailyjournalonline.com/articles/2003/05/02/community/news1.txt
+| title = Awareness - The 'A' Factor
-}}</ref> Given the number of new laboratory professionals needed due to increasing requirements for laboratory services and the number of employees within 5-10 years of retirement, demand is expected to far exceed the number anticipated to be available for hire" (pg. 15). Consequently, the number of job openings will increase as the [[baby boomers]] retire and make way in the lab for new staff. However, the burden on new inexperienced medical technologists will worsen as the 60+ population increases and become greater consumers of health care unless more people are trained for the profession.
+| journal = Critical Values
+| volume = 1
+| issue = 4
+| pages = 15-17
+| publisher = American Society for Clinical Pathology
+| location = Chicago IL
+| date = October 2008
+| url = http://www.ascp.org/pdf/CVShortage.aspx
+| accessdate = 14 March 2009
+}}</ref></blockquote>
-One solution to minimize this problem is to make secondary and post-secondary educators and advisers aware of both the benefits and the job security of degrees from accredited medical technology programs, and advise their students to become informed about the profession. The number of students currently in training programs will not be sufficient to satisfy the future vacancies and the increased work load.
+A positive effect of this shift is that the number of job openings for MTs will increase in the next decade as [[baby boomers]] retire and make way for new staff in laboratories.  But at the same time, the workload will also increase for the young, inexperienced medical technologists as the elderly population increases and become greater consumers of health care.  This will only increase the need for more people to enter the profession, and the number of students currently in training programs will not be sufficient to satisfy the future vacancies and the increased work load.
-Medical Technologists perform complex laboratory testing requiring accuracy and integrity.  A degree in Medical Technology may open doors to satisfying wages, management opportunities, or even pave the way to another professional career, such as pharmacist, physician, laboratory equipment repair or sales.<ref>[http://www.ascp.org/FunctionalNavigation/publicationsjournalsandbooks/CriticalValues_1.aspx]</ref>
+One possible way to decrease the shortage is to make secondary and post-secondary educators and advisers aware of both the benefits associated with degrees from accredited medical technology programs, and urge them to inform their students about the profession.  Students should be aware that medical technologists perform complex laboratory testing requiring accuracy and integrity, and that a degree in medical technology can lead to satisfying wages, management opportunities, or even a path to another professional career, such as pharmacist, physician, or laboratory equipment sales or repair.
 ==See also==
@@ Line 91: / Line 99: @@
 ==External links==
-*[http://www.csmls.org]
+*[http://www.csmls.org Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science]
 *[http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos096.htm U.S. Department of Labor information on Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians]
 *[http://www.ascp.org/ American Society of Clinical Pathology]
@@ Line 98: / Line 106: @@
 *[http://www.naacls.org/ National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science]
 *[http://www.labce.com/medical_technologist.aspx Medical Technologist Continuing Education]
-*[http://www.clt.astate.edu/wwilliam/hem_i_qa_qc.htm]
-*[http://www.Medical-Technologists.org Forum for Medical Technologists]
 ==References==
 {{Reflist}}
+*http://www.cms.hhs.gov/CLIA/10_Categorization_of_Tests.asp#TopOfPage
-# http://www.uow.edu.au/arts/sts/bmartin/dissent/documents/health/labscam.html
-# http://www.cms.hhs.gov/CLIA/10_Categorization_of_Tests.asp#TopOfPage
+*http://dhi.health.state.nm.us/CLIA/index.php
-# http://dhi.health.state.nm.us/CLIA/index.php
 {{Allied health professions}}

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