Have you ever wondered how medical equipment is maintained?A medical technologist and a medical laboratory scientist are trained to do this.They are the people who make sure medical equipment is functioning.Blood, body fluids, and tissue samples can be analyzed in the lab.It isn't as hard to become one as you may think.Some of the most common questions people have about becoming a medical technologist have been answered.
Step 1: A bachelor's degree in medical technology is required.
You can apply to universities that offer bachelor's degrees in medical technology after graduating high school.You can take courses in biology, chemistry, genetics, phlebotomy, immunology, and biostatistics.You will get hands-on training with professional training such as healthcare ethics and experience working in a lab.You will be a trained medical technologist once you graduate with your degree.Online programs in medical technology are available from some colleges.Many states require a bachelor's degree in order to be a certified medical technologist.
Step 2: Medical technologist training is offered by some military programs.
If you join the medical field in a branch of the military, you can receive classroom and hands-on training as a medical technologist.When you leave the military, you can get certified and apply for jobs even if the training doesn't certify you as a licensed medical technologist, because it can count as your work experience.
Step 3: You can advance your career in management with a master's degree.
A master's degree in medical laboratory science will give you the education and training you need to be a future leader in the field.If you want to move into upper management positions in the industry and make more money, then you should pursue a master's degree.The field of medical laboratory science is constantly evolving.A master's degree can help you succeed.
Step 4: You want to have good qualities such as accuracy, honesty, and perseverance.
Because of the attention to detail and work required to perform work as a medical technologist, the ability to follow instructions is critical.You need to be able to adapt to changes in laboratory practices and technologies throughout your career because new technologies are always being invented.As things change, it is helpful to have a flexible way of thinking that allows you to do away with traditional practices.If a new machine does better than the old one, you need to be able to adapt to the new technology.
Step 5: Check your state's licensure requirements to find out what they are.
In the US, some states don't require a license to practice as a medical technologist.You can get a job at the clinic if you have a degree.If your state requires it, the requirements include a bachelor's degree, an exam, and a fee.If you want to work in a state that doesn't require a license, you need to get certified in that state.Some states require 12 to 24 hours of experience with a bachelor's degree in medical technology.If you know the requirements, you can pay the required fees and take exams.
Step 6: Medical technologists perform professional lab work.
There are thousands of jobs for medical technologists.Most of them involve analyzing or calibrating medical devices that help lead to a medical diagnosis.You are still working to find a medical diagnosis even if you are working in a clinical lab analyzing blood samples.
Step 7: You can apply at hospitals, doctor's offices, and medical labs.
Hospitals have better pay and benefits for medical technologists.Many people work at smaller medical practices and diagnostic labs.Some people work in schools or in ambulance services to help with emergencies.The fact that medical technologists can be employed by almost any medical institution is one of the best things about pursuing a career as a medical technologist.There are a lot of different jobs you can get as a medical technologist.
Step 8: A bachelor's degree takes 4 years, while an associates degree will take 2 years.
If you want to work as a medical technologist in a state that doesn't require a bachelor's degree, you can start working as soon as you finish your associates.If your state requires it, you will need to complete a 4-year degree program in medical technology.A bachelor's degree can lead to more career opportunities.Management, leadership, and other complex issues in medical technology are covered in your coursework.
Step 9: Most medical technologists make about $54,000 a year.
A career as a medical technologist can be rewarding, considering the amount of available jobs and the fact that you only need a bachelor's degree.Because you are never on call and work normal hours, you can have plenty of time for family time and a social life.
Step 10: The field is expected to increase!
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the medical technologist field is expected to increase by more than 10%.There aren't any signs of the field slowing down, so the risk of downsizing or being laid off is low.