Medical laboratory assistant, medical laboratory technician, and medical laboratory technologist are three different job roles in the field of medical laboratory science. While there is some overlap between these roles, they have different responsibilities and requirements.
- Medical Laboratory Assistant: A medical laboratory assistant is responsible for supporting medical laboratory technicians and technologists in performing routine laboratory tasks such as preparing and processing specimens, cleaning equipment, and maintaining records. Medical laboratory assistants typically have a high school diploma and complete a post-secondary certificate program.
- Medical Laboratory Technician: A medical laboratory technician performs more complex laboratory tests and procedures than a medical laboratory assistant. They are responsible for analyzing specimens and interpreting results, and may also supervise medical laboratory assistants. Medical laboratory technicians typically have an associate degree or diploma from an accredited program and are certified or licensed by their state.
- Medical Laboratory Technologist: A medical laboratory technologist is responsible for performing complex laboratory tests and procedures, interpreting results, and analyzing data. They may also supervise medical laboratory assistants and medical laboratory technicians. Medical laboratory technologists typically have a Bachelor's Degree in Clinical Laboratory Science or a related field, and are certified or licensed by their state.
In summary, a medical laboratory assistant performs basic laboratory tasks, an medical laboratory technician performs more complex laboratory tests and procedures, and a medical laboratory technologist is responsible for performing complex laboratory tests, interpreting results, and analyzing data. The required education and certification/licensure vary for each role.
