Medical Laboratory Technicians

The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that employment for medical laboratory technicians will grow by 5 percent through 2033, which is as fast as the average for all careers. Demand for laboratory personnel is expected to be strong due to the aging population. Longer lifespans will result in a greater need to diagnose medical conditions, such as cancer and type 2 diabetes, through laboratory procedures.

One technological factor that will influence employment in this field is the development of laboratory-testing equipment that is easier to use. This means that some testing that formerly had to be done in hospitals can now be done in physicians' offices and other nonhospital settings. This development may slow growth in hospital laboratory employment; however, it should increase the number of technicians hired by medical groups and clinics, medical and diagnostic laboratories, and other ambulatory health care services such as blood and organ banks. In addition, equipment that is easier to use may also lead to technicians being able to do more kinds of testing, including some tests that used to be done only by medical technologists.

Aspiring technicians should keep in mind that medical laboratory testing is an absolutely essential element in today's medicine. Well-trained technicians who have completed an accredited education program, are flexible in accepting responsibilities, and willing to continue their education throughout their careers will have the best job prospects.