Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Professional Credentials for Medical Technicians
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Stumble thisThere are more than 300,000 medical technicians working in the field of clinical laboratory science in the United States. Some states require laboratory professionals to be licensed or to hold registrations with national organizations.
Prospective employers, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says, prefer medical technicians who hold certifications from the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel, the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology, the American Medical Technologists, or the Board of Registry of the American Association of Bioanalysts.
While job prospects will be “excellent”, according to the BLS, you may want to pursue post-degree certifications. Here are some of the major certifications and testing agencies:
American Association of Bioanalysts
The American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) offers certifications in unique clinical disciplines: Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology, Immunohematology, Microbiology, Molecular Diagnostics, Andrology, and Embryology. To qualify for an exam, you must meet a wide range of educational and professional requirements. Candidates have earned associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees in their field, combined with full-time experience. Check the AAB website for specifics.
American Medical Technologists
The American Medical Technologists (AMT) is a professional membership association and a nonprofit certification agency. Its Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification requirements range from holding a two-year degree, to graduation from a professional school, or military training. Tests include exam sections on General Laboratory, Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology/Immunohematology, Microbiology, and Urinalysis. Visit their site for requirements.
American Society for Clinical Pathology
The American Society for Clinical Pathology offers certification by the ASCP Board of Registry. Certification areas are Technician Certification, Technologist Certification, Specialist Certification, Diplomate Certification, and International ASCPi Certification. Visit the website for requirements.
National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel
The National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel offers an NCA exam. You can qualify by satisfying a range of requirements (associate degree plus training and experience). For details, check with their website.
Sources
American Association of Bioanalysts
American Medical Technologists
American Society for Clinical Pathology
National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel
U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics
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Editor: Sasha Orman is a graduate of UCSD with a degree in writing and years of experience with various online and print publications.
Melissa Steele is a professional writer and content developer with over 8 years experience working for online publications.
