In this BizTalk, we will be discussing why Medical Lab Assistant/Technician (MLAT) is the fastest growing healthcare job without a degree in Canada. It is expected that by 2021, there will be about 17,000 openings for Medical Lab Technicians, and it will take about 8 years to fill these open positions.
Of all healthcare jobs in Canada, not including doctors and nurses, MLATs require the smallest investment for training and education. This is because they can learn on the job under the supervision of more experienced technicians or lab assistants.
What Does A MLAT Do?
A medical laboratory technician (MT) performs some of the most important tasks at a laboratory.
- They use equipment such as centrifuges and microscopes to analyze samples of blood, urine, and tissue for some of the most common diseases.
- Conduct analyses of blood, urine and other body fluids.
- Prepare tissue sections for microscopic examinations.
- Conduct blood group, type and compatibility tests for transfusion purposes.
- Set up, operate and maintain laboratory equipment.
- Conduct quality control assessment of testing techniques.
Medical lab technicians are instrumental in the process of diagnosing diseases. They monitor, analyze, and record information about patient samples to help detect disease markers. They also play a vital role in the development of new treatments for diseases by testing new medications.
How much an MLAT Makes In a year in Canada?
The average annual salary of a Medical Laboratory Technician in Canada is $61,000.
In the ten provinces and three territories of Canada, MLATs make a median salary of $61,000 annually. The maximum annual income for an MLT ranges from $77,300 to $81,900 depending on what province they work in. The lowest annual salary for an MLT is located in Quebec at a median of $56,200 according to the Government of Canada Job Bank.
What Does It Take To Become An MLAT In Canada?
Becoming an MLT in Canada can be a daunting process. There are several steps the candidate has to complete before they can become certified.
First, they will need to apply for admission at an accredited college or university. This will be followed by completing the necessary prerequisite courses, which vary depending on the province in Canada they live in.
Finally, they will have to pass both the National Assessment of Competency in Medical Laboratory Technology exam and provincial assessment examinations.
In short, an MLT requires completing a two-to-three-year college program in medical laboratory technology and also passing the CSMLS certification exam.
Pros And Cons of MLAT Diploma In Canada?
Medical Lab Technicians are the fastest growing healthcare career without a degree in Canada, according to the Canadian Association of Medical Laboratory Science.
In recent years, the medical laboratory technician profession has been offered certification to better prepare for this ever-changing field.
The advantages of getting certified as a medical laboratory technician include a higher earning potential and a more in-depth understanding of current trends in medicine and technology.
If you are looking for a job where you can make a difference in other people’s lives, then becoming a medical lab technician may be the perfect fit.
Medical laboratory technicians have a limited opportunity for advancement because they cannot transfer their skills into other careers within the medical field.
Moreover, while performing these tests, they may even be able to catch an unknown virus or bacteria before it causes someone else to get sick.
Where Would You Get Certified As An MLAT In Canada?
BizTech College offers a variety of practical programs designed to prepare you for growing career opportunities in the healthcare field.
Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician diploma at the college equips students with in-depth medical lab safety procedures, medical terminology, anatomical pathology, phlebotomy, how to perform and interpret electrocardiograms (ECG), and more. Hands-on training with qualified professionals during clinical placements will prepare applicants to pursue a rewarding career.
If you are interested in becoming an MLT, we recommend that you take the time to speak with our admission advisor to understand what it takes to become certified as an MLT in Canada. Talk to our admission advisors to know about career opportunities, financial aid, and more. Contact us.
