Being a doctor or a nurse are not the only careers in Medicine. Several new options have emerged in the evolving healthcare sector, says Shaheen Khan
Want to pursue medical related course after Class XIIIJ Don’t worry; Being a doctor is not the only option to pursue a career in medicine as most people believe. There are numerous career options available in the healthcare sector; one of which is Medical laboratory Technology.
The medical treatment starts only after the diagnosis of the disease and diagnose, doctors need various kinds of analysis through tests. On the basis of outcome of these tests, they treat and give advice for prevention. This is where the crucial role of Medical laboratory Technology or Clinical laboratory science comes in picture. The Medical laboratory Technicians are the ones who does the blood collection and perform the various diagnostic tests by analysing body fluids like blood, saliva and urine, tissues, microorganism screening, chemical analyses, cell counts of human body etc.
The technicians also play an important role in collecting the information needed, sampling, testing, reporting and documentation of these investigations. They determine the presence, extent or absence of disease and provide data needed to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
Skills Required
Qualified medical lab technician needs to be extremely precise and disciplined in their work; they should be proficient in managing delicate laboratory equipment and responsive materials. In an increasingly computerised industry, medical lab technologists should be capable in using computers and digital equipment and comfortable with understanding new technologies.
Career Overview
As a technician, one does regular laboratory testing manually with the help of high end equipment. Technicians collect samples, organise specimens and operate machines that mechanically analyse samples.
Prospects
A career in the field will offer one a chance to have an important impact on enduring care, without actually interacting with patients. One can also work as a freelancer as well as a phlebotomist and have great earnings.
With relevant skill a candidate can find employment in a hospital, minor emergency centers, private laboratory, blood donor centers, Healthcare centre or clinics.
Medical lab technicians can also find jobs in research facilities, crime laboratories, universities, pharmaceutical companies and military. Medical technicians are also required in industry like pharmaceutical for position in product development, promotion, sales, quality promise, environmental health and insurance, amongst others.
Eligibility
A diploma in Medical laboratory Technology (DMlT) is 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognised Board. Duration of the course is mainly 2 years. There are also other certificate courses in lab technicians which needs 10+2 as the eligibility. For those who want to pursue Bachelor of Medical laboratory Technology (BMlT), the eligibility is 10+2 or equivalent with Science subjects or pre- university vocational course from a recognised Board.
Remuneration
The initial salary ranges from Rs 10,000-Rs 20,000 per month. The pay packages gradually increase with years of experience.