Training For A Rewarding Career Option As A Medical Lab Technician
The ever-progressive healthcare industry is full of medical professionals who require specific
qualifications and technical knowledge. One such lesser-known yet promising medical career is
that of a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT). The job of an MLT professional is rewarding
for those interested in healthcare and scientific research or testing.
Define a Medical Lab Technician
He is a trained and certified medical professional who works in a laboratory with specific lab
equipment to conduct certain procedures or tests primarily assessing the condition of human
tissues and blood samples. Medical lab technicians are also referred to as clinical lab
technicians. They help in gathering vital information to aid in diagnosing a medical condition and
providing the right treatment. Only accurate and timely diagnosis by a lab technician can assure
early detection and curative treatment of diseases.
A lab technician is authorized to conduct technical, mechanical, and medical assessments or
tests within the safety of a laboratory setting. They also analyze different kinds of data and
maintain lab equipment in good condition. A lab technician may be supervised by senior
specialists, scientific researchers, or medical doctors while they carry our various tasks.
Pursuing a Career as a Medical Laboratory Technician
To become a professional lab technician, you need to complete your 12th grade in the science
stream. You can enroll for a medical laboratory technique (MLT) course in a reputed university
or educational academy to gain a diploma or an undergraduate degree certificate.
Students can learn about the anatomy of the human body and its physiological aspects. They
also know the critical role played by the immune system in protecting the body and fighting
disease germs. The course curriculum provides extensive knowledge of the different virus
strains of disease-causing bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
The Behind-The_Scene Duties of an MLT
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A medical lab technician works independently sitting inside a laboratory, conducting
different tests, and investigating the results.
He may collaborate with doctors and specialists to give the test reports and findings.
The contribution of an MLT in the healthcare industry is a valuable one.
A lab technician may visit and interact with patients to collect samples.
Job Opportunities and Career Flexibility
Presently, the job of a medical lab technician is in great demand. According to research, MLT
job opportunities may grow up to 11% in the coming years. Furthermore, the aging population in
India needs increased healthcare facilities, hinting at more medical diagnostic tests. The Indian
healthcare reforms signify more regulations and advanced medical diagnosis, increasing the
demand for professional medical lab technicians.
MLT can enjoy career flexibility by choosing from a wide range of scientific medical specialties
such as genetics, immunology, and phlebotomy. You can become a professional technical
expert in analytic techniques and tools such as electron microscopy. Certified diploma or degree
holders can become laboratory managers, clinical instructors, academic tutors, or laboratory
attendants. Students interested in further lab studies can gain higher positions like a research
scientist or a scientific lab professor.
Students can learn basic or advanced course programs to gain knowledge on the latest
technical specialties or specific specialization courses. These include a diploma in medical
laboratory technology (DMLT), a diploma in clinical laboratory technology (DCLT), or a diploma
in laboratory techniques. Students can also pursue degree courses in medical laboratory
techniques.
Let us learn in detail about MLT job opportunities:
After completion of a medical laboratory technical course, and earning a valid certification,
students can explore various job openings to start a rewarding career in the medical laboratory
field. A lab technician focuses on enhancing the quality of patient care in the healthcare industry.
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Healthcare Technician - This medical position can be offered to those students with a
certified diploma in medical lab technician program. These professionals perform
laboratory tests and medical procedures with the aid of human body specimens such as
urine, blood, or tissue samples.
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Pharmacy Technician - A diploma in MLT can open new career-related options.
Students can opt for a career as pharmacy technicians who are responsible for giving
over-the-counter medications. An MLT course of one year is sufficient to qualify as a
pharmacy technician. Students can also aim for an associate degree to procure
competitive job offers.
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Pathologist Assistant - These professionals work together with pathologists to help
prepare tests and diagnose blood samples, human tissues, and bodily fluids. These
tests are done in a laboratory setting while maintaining cleanliness, sterility, and hygiene.
In some cases, a pathologist assistant may be needed to examine a deceased human
body to know the cause of death.
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Radiology Technician Assistant - As a medical lab technician, you can assist radio
technicians while studying radiographic records. They assist patients to be correctly
positioned beneath X-ray machines to protect them from harmful radiation. An assistant
is entrusted to use the X-ray machines in a proper way to capture useful images with
accurate details, contrast, etc. Such valid reports are then forwarded to the radiologist for
further review and inspection.
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Laboratory Systems Analysts - A laboratory system analyst is an expert in handling
and maximizing LIS or laboratory information systems. Creating LIS, putting them into
use, and managing the systems are some of the primary duties of an analyst certified
with a medical laboratory technique certificate.
Tech Mahindra Smart Academy MLT Course
Tech Mahindra Smart Academy offers Diploma courses in Medical Laboratory Techniques. You
can enroll in their medical lab technician course and build a lucrative career in the medical
industry. The MLT Smart Academy course is also affiliated with Jamia Hamdard University and
the Maharashtra State Board of Skill Development (MSBSD).
Industry-Ready Medical Professionals
Students armed with a degree or diploma in medical lab technology courses will acquire
knowledge and skills to work in related fields within the healthcare industry. These professional
lab technicians are equipped to conduct critical diagnostic tests, offer quality care to patients,
and also maintain top-class standards of professional accuracy while conducting tests within a
lab setting. Through hard work, practical training sessions, and extensive theoretical knowledge,
they are ready for a high-flying career in the healthcare industry.