Although they spend less time with patients than doctors and other allied health care professionals, medical laboratory technicians play a vital role in patient care. As a vital member of the health care team, the medical laboratory technician works closely with the pathologist and other physicians in collecting information needed to provide the best care of an ill or injured patient. Job Opportunities Hospitals need competent laboratory personnel and medical laboratory technicians to help meet increased demands for laboratory service in nearly every city, town and rural area. Approximately two-thirds work in hospital laboratories. Others are employed in physicians offices, clinics, commercial firms, research facilities, the armed forces, public health centers, industrial and pharmaceutical laboratories and in veterinary clinics.
Students completing the program are eligible to take a national certifying examination.