Clinical Laboratory Sciences
When it comes to the challenge and rewards of medicine and science, the medical technologist (MT) has the best of both worlds. Medical technologists work in all areas of the clinical laboratory including blood banking, chemistry, hematology, immunology, and microbiology. They perform a full range of laboratory tests – from simple premarital blood test, to more complex tests to uncover diseases such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and cancer. They are also responsible for confirming the accuracy of test results and reporting laboratory findings to pathologists and other physicians.
The information that a medical technologist gives to the physician influences the medical treatment a patient will receive. Also known as clinical laboratory scientists (CLS), medical technologists operate complex electronic equipment, computers, and precision instruments costing millions of dollars.
Medical Technologists enter the field with a Bachelor’s degree and may pursue advanced education at the masters or doctoral levels. Technologists (or Clinical Laboratory Scientists, must complete supervised clinical rotations in prescribed areas of practice and complete a certifying examination. Many states regulate the practice of medical technologists through required state registration or licensure.