NEWSLETTER
Finding Jobs in a Tough Economy: Laboratory Personnel Continue to Increase in Demand Months into this recession, news of stocks plummeting and corporations collapsing seem to dominate economic discussion. But if shifting topics to that of industries enjoying economic success, then the multi-billion dollar Healthcare Industry quickly becomes the focal point of conversation. Working in the field of healthcare is reputable, reliable, safe, (the list goes on). But of the vast opportunities available, which are best? Which professions hire at the steadiest rates? And how can one make this transition and ensure job security? In true Darwinist fashion, the front runners of the field are distinguishing themselves. Two of which, Clinical Laboratory Scientists (CLS) and Medical Lab Technicians (MLT), have particularly been recognized for their ability to provide career success and stability. These two careers enjoy “faster than average employment growth” states the Bureau of Labor Statistics.The government statistics site continues, stating CLS and MLT demonstrate “excellent job opportunities” and are expected to increase in demand greatly in the coming years. However, despite the projected increase in demand for this field, there is a current shortage of talent and an even greater projected shortage. A 2005 survey of 749 laboratories conducted by the American Society for Clinical Pathology estimated a current vacancy rate of 6 percent for both Medical Laboratory Technicians and Clinical Laboratory Scientists. CLS and MLT are very intertwined because the nature of the two positions makes them dependent upon one another. “Medical Laboratory Technicians are especially in such high demand because they can run machines, do molecular testing and aid the Clinical Laboratory Scientists in the daily running of the laboratory and the diagnosis of disease,” states Caryn Mack MS CLS, MLT Director at the Institute of Medical Education. According to Mack, MLT’s alleviate much of the work of the CLS, but MLT’s study very specific coursework and therefore do not require the same duration of schooling as a CLS. “In my experience in the field, I have found that MLT’s are an asset to the lab because they assume much of the responsibilities of the CLS but need minimal CLS oversight,” states Mack. Mack, who created the MLT department at the Institute of Medical Education, says her decision to begin the course was in response to the growing demand for both positions. “The support of the MLT is needed for a laboratory to run at is most efficient pace,” says Mack. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also expresses concern over the recent and significant decline in the amount of people training in the field of CLS.
The department states that “the median age of laboratory personnel is 41,” and that “a critical number of workers will retire from the field over the next 5-10 years.” However, the bay area offers minimal training facilities to cope with this growing problem. “An MLT can be both cost effective and an essential part of keeping the lab running smoothly, yet there are very few programs to develop this talent,” says Mack. Furthermore, upon completion of MLT training, the transition into the position of CLS can become a more fluid process. “It is a combination of on the job training and extended coursework,” states Mack, “it allows MLT’s to experience the field and earn some money while they continue to advance their title,” continues Mack. “It is imperative that we develop a strong foundation. The MLT’s we train today are the CLS’s of tomorrow.” Mack, whose MLT course will begin at IME’s San Jose location in April, advises that “the MLT program at IME is a perfect training program for those who have some college and want to gain knowledge and experience in the laboratory field.” While becoming an MLT can be a realistic goal for those fascinated by the medical laboratory, perhaps the transition to becoming an MLT is easiest for licensed Phlebotomists. “Phlebotomists are already trained in ventipuncture technique and understand standard lab procedure.” However, while there are some similarities in practice, there is nothing similar about the salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Medical Lab Technicians make an average of 48% more money than Phlebotomists. Courses at the Institute of Medical Education are currently enrolling. For more information please visit www.imededu.com or call (408)291-0033.