Medical Laboratory Technician Common Questions

Medical Lab Techs working in lab

Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology offers students interested in the field of diagnostic medical testing the training required for success. Our two-year, hands-on Medical Laboratory Technician program prepares students for entry-level employment as medical lab technicians.

What Is a Medical Laboratory Technician?

Medical lab technicians are allied health professionals that work alongside medical professionals to help diagnose medical conditions. They are critical members of a patient’s healthcare team, performing the diagnostic tests required to find anomalies in bodily fluid and tissue samples.

What Do Medical Lab Technicians Do?

Under the supervision of a physician, medical lab techs perform tests on bodily fluid and tissue samples to help diagnose medical conditions for proper treatment. They’re responsible for preparing samples for analysis and using equipment to find abnormalities. They also match blood used for successful blood transfusions and test samples for various drug levels.

Medical lab technicians work in hospitals, laboratories, long-term care facilities, clinics and more.

Is Being a Medical Lab Technician Hard?

Being a medical lab tech can be challenging due to the use of high-tech equipment and the responsibility of proper sample analysis. Familiarity with technology and an in-depth understanding of the body are required for success. This career requires the handling of blood and other fluids which may prove difficult for some.

Rest assured, students at Cambridge ready for entry into the field receive the support, hands-on learning and skills they need to reach success.

Are Medical Lab Technicians in Demand? Is It a Good Career?

Yes, medical lab techs are in demand across the U.S. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of these technicians is projected to grow by 11% between now and 2028, much faster than average. Due to this demand, it’s a stable career with endless opportunities for growth.

How Much Do Medical Lab Technicians Make?

According to Salary.com, the average salary for a medical lab technician is $54,897 per year, with the high being $62,543 per year and the low being $42,693 per year. Your own salary will depend on the setting you decide to work in, your amount of experience, certification level, and additional skills.

How Do I Become a Medical Lab Technician? What Degree Do I Need?

To become a medical lab tech, you’ll need to first obtain your high school diploma. Once complete, you’ll need to obtain an associate degree to work in a professional setting. During this time, you’ll learn critical skills and venture through the hands-on externships you need to be successful in your career.

If you choose to do so, you’ll need to obtain certification through the American Medical Technologists Association. Once complete, you’ll be ready for entry-level employment in the field.

Jumpstart Your Medical Lab Technician Career With Cambridge

Are you ready to start your career as a medical lab technician? Get started today with a degree through Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology. To learn more about our Medical Lab Technician program, give us a call today at 877-206-4279.