Medical Technologist

Medical technologists (MTs), perform laboratory tests necessary for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Medical technologists oversee many laboratory operations and supervise medical laboratory technicians and other personnel. They work with pathologists, other physicians, and scientists and provide data so that doctors and researchers can determine the presence and extent of disease.  Using computers, chemicals, microscopes and other instruments to examine and perform tests on body fluids and tissues they provide reliable results, control quality, and train others. Using microscopes, computers, and chemicals, MTs prepare and study body tissues and fluids. They test for bacteria, drugs, or diseases such as leukemia, diabetes, cancer, and HIV/AIDS. Medical technologists understand the reasons for doing specific tests and the significance of those results. Larger labs usually require MTs to choose specialty areas.

Places of Employment
Hospitals

High School/General Preparation
High School diploma is required

Special Education/Training
A baccalaureate degree in Medical Technology is important although biology and chemistry background followed by some medical technology is another alternative.

Schools
Oregon Health and Sciences University
www.ohsu.edu/alliedhealth/clsindex.htm
www.ohsu.edu

Licensure, Certification , and Registration
Certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists
www.ascp.org

Professional Organizations
American Medical Technologists
www.amt1.com

American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS)
www.ascls.org

American Society of Clinical Pathologists
www.ascp.org