Medical technologists perform lab tests.
Medical technologists--also called clinical laboratory technologists--perform lab tests that help detect, diagnose and treat disease. Medical technologist training is available from colleges, universities and hospitals.
Background
The usual medical technologist training for an entry-level position is a bachelor's degree in medical technology or a life science, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. However, sometimes a combination of other education and on-the-job specialized training can lead to a medical technologist job.
General Training
The content of medical technology training varies depending on the specific program and its focus. In general, medical technologist training includes courses in chemistry, biology, microbiology, mathematics, statistics and use of laboratory equipment.
Specialization
Some medical technology programs may also offer the opportunity to specialize in a area, such as health policy development, research, education, public health or veterinary science.
Certification
The Occupational Outlook Handbook reports that many employers prefer certified medical technologists. Associations that offer certification include the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology, the American Medical Technologists, the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel and the Board of Registry of the American Association of Bioanalysts.
Caution
Medical technologist is not the same as a medical technician. Medical technologists have more education and more responsibility than medical technicians and often supervise technicians, especially in large laboratory settings.
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