In the Spotlight: Medical Technician
Are you detail oriented? Enjoy working in partnership with doctors, nurses and medical professionals in identifying certain medical conditions through laboratory tests? If so, a position as a medical technician may be the career for you.
What Exactly Does a Medical Technician Do?
This person performs a variety of laboratory tests in the following
departments: blood bank, chemistry, hematology, coagulation, serology,
microbiology and urinalysis. The medical technician can also concentrate
activity in one section. This person is also responsible for the accuracy of
tests performed in accordance with laboratory procedures and policies ensuring
that quality control requirements are met. A medical technician also provides
assistance to medical and nursing personnel in specific patient care situations.
Most medical technician positions are within hospitals, and the job market is
excellent.
More Specialized Technician Positions Are Also Available
Some more specialized technician positions include cardiovascular, medical
records and health information technician, pharmacy technician, radiologic
technician and surgical technician to name a few. There is plenty of room for
growth within the field. With increased levels of education, the responsibility
level and a more senior position follow accordingly.
A Medical Technician Is Needed Around the Clock
Flexible work hours, full-time and part-time positions, and a pleasant
working environment make a medical technician position valuable to the working
mother or single parent. Family members or friends can watch the small children
evenings or weekends when they are available the most. Generous benefit packages
and shift differentials are also available.
Education Requirements Depend on the Level of the Medical Technician
Position
Some positions only require a high-school degree, while most require a
two-year associates or higher degree or certification degree. Community colleges
and four-year colleges/universities have health care certifications and degrees
that are generally endorsed by most hospital systems. Check with your college or
employer to find out the job requirements. The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory
Sciences is a great resource for information on the profession.
Career Advancement Opportunities are Available
Inova Health System offers a variety of specialty opportunities for new
graduates and experienced medical technicians. Click here for more
information on nursing education opportunities.
Information on educational programs in Northern Virginia can be found at:
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