Is becoming a medical laboratory technician right for me?
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How to become a Medical Laboratory Technician
To become a medical laboratory technician, you typically need to complete a post-secondary program in clinical laboratory science or a related field, and obtain certification from a recognized accrediting organization. Here are the general steps to becoming a medical laboratory technician:
- Complete a high school diploma or equivalent: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required to enter a medical laboratory technician program.
- Complete a medical laboratory technician program: You will need to complete a post-secondary program in clinical laboratory science or a related field from an accredited institution. Programs typically take one to two years to complete and include coursework in medical laboratory science, microbiology, hematology, immunology, and clinical chemistry, as well as hands-on training in a laboratory setting.
- Obtain certification: Certification is required in many states to work as a medical laboratory technician. The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is a recognized accrediting organization that offers certification for medical laboratory technicians. To become certified, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge and skills in clinical laboratory science.
- Meet any additional requirements: Depending on your jurisdiction, you may need to meet additional requirements, such as completing a criminal background check or obtaining a license to practice as a medical laboratory technician.
- Seek employment: Once you have obtained your certification and met any additional requirements, you can begin seeking employment as a medical laboratory technician in a hospital, clinic, research facility, or private laboratory.
It's important to note that specific requirements to become a medical laboratory technician may vary depending on your location and the institution where you are seeking certification. It's always a good idea to research the specific requirements in your area and consult with educational institutions or accrediting organizations for more information.