The Indian healthcare segment is growing leaps and bounds thus opening up new avenues for laboratory technicians. The role of a technician is not limited to the medical field alone. They are taking up administrative roles, says Aruna Singh
The socio-economic growth of the country is a major boost for the service industries in India. An educated population backed by technological advancement is paving a way for many new opportunities. And many Indians are opting for this newage career that offers them a handsome pay package along with job satisfaction. Among the various growing professions in the services sector; clinical laboratory services or lab technician services is the most sought-after industry in India today. Age-related ailments, diseases like cancer and type-2 diabetes has created an emergent need for medical laboratory and technicians for these labs to use and maintain their equipments.
Change is the only constant in the medical allied services which ensures that there is always potential for growth in the job of a lab technician. The health industry is constantly changing for the better and this makes the role of a lab technician all that more important.
Role and functions
The primary role of a lab technician is not restricted to sampling and analysis alone. He performs a variety of critical tasks as well. There are a lot of specialised areas that one can explore within this field — CT scan, MRI, X-Ray, operation theatre, pathology, optical laboratory, plaster and radiology technicians among many others.
In most hospitals, the technicians also conduct several chemical tests to evaluate blood cholesterol level, study of immune system, phlebotomy, serology & coagulation. They test drug levels in blood and conduct other tests. Moreover, these lab technicians also take care of the lab through installation, set-up and cleaning prior to an operation. They are also responsible for maintaining the room temperature and to ensure placement of chemicals is at a safe places.
Skills
A lab technician is supposed to be very humble, courteous, disciplined, caring and above all a down-to-earth person. A Medical laboratory Technologist should be attentive and must possess a sharp memory. Apart from these personality traits one needs to be self-motivating, confident and adaptable to accept challenges. Absolute understanding of instruments and equipments, good analytical skills and familiarity with computers and relevant software could be an added plus.
lab technicians work with infectious specimens and other unhygienic materials, therefore they must strictly comply to proper guidelines to control infection and minimise diseases. Proper uniform along with protective masks and gloves help to resist infections and generate effective results, so a technician must always adhere to these rules.
Healthy & wise
Apart from skills and the required education, medical technicians are supposed to be of optimum health. Because they work for hours attentively and oblivious to the surroundings they should be good at addressing the stress. Besides this, a lab technician must have a good eye-sight, should be capable to stand on their feet for hours and should not hesitate to collect samples from disabled patients. They should be free from communicable diseases. All in all overall health is the pre-requisite of this profession.
Qualifications
lab technicians must possess a relevant degree or diploma or a certificate programme from a reputed institute. Aspirants can enhance their knowledge and skills by taking BSc MlT(medical lab technology) from a recognised University or Board. Duration of the bachelor programme is for 3 years like any other bachelor degree. Hospitals offering BSc MlT are usually affiliated with a college or university.
Job prospects
There are innumerable job prospects for medical technicians in hospitals, biochemical laboratories, diagnostic labs and even in research institutes. A professional with a masters degree or at least bachelor degree can make a resounding careers in academics too. Technicians are also required for managerial positions in labs and hospitals, system analyst, hospital coordinator and course coordinator in medical institutes. They can also find lucrative opportunities in MNCs as product development executive, quality assurance manager and even as marketing coordinator.
Overseas Opportunities
It is a fact that the US and many countries in Europe have better opportunities for lab technicians. These countries spend significantly in research and development, technology up-gradation, resource optimisation and facility creation. Besides these encouraging aspects, they give more lucrative pay packages than a majority of Asian countries. One can never ignore the motivating work culture, employee welfare schemes and endless growth opportunities present in the West. As per America’s Bureau of labour Statistics report in the past year, the projected employment growth of labour technicians is about 15 percent in the coming decade. This predicted growth unleashes tremendous job opportunities for qualified and talented lab technicians from India.
Just like in India, healthcare needs of the American population are increasing exponentially day by day. The Government has already passed the health care bill which will eventually open up new opportunities for people around the globe. Now, it is up to the interest and inclination of a person whether he/she would like to serve the domestic healthcare industry or would he prefer to live in a more lucrative market of America and Europe.
Professional growth
All in all, one need to be good at analytical skills, technical skills and must possess endless drive to learn and grow. Technicians can manage a reasonable salary in both Government and private hospitals, diagnostic labs and clinics. Aspirants can earn better in educational institutes and people with curious mindset can pursue professional growth in the research institutes. If one is looking for decent pay package, secured job and comprehensive professional growth then career in medical laboratory technology is an excellent option.
The writer is principal, DPMI.