A clinical laboratory assistant, also known as a medical laboratory assistant, is a trained medical professional who assists other laboratory staff and physicians. Collecting and processing blood samples and other clinical specimens, regulating quality control of laboratory equipment, and office duties such as patient registration and tracking billing and insurance records are just a few of her responsibilities. Although there are several paths to becoming a clinical laboratory assistant, most employers prefer to hire applicants who have at least an associate’s degree from a junior or community college. Many people enter the field after earning a clinical laboratory assistant certificate or degree from a vocational or technical school or a hospital. These types of programs are also available in the United States Armed Forces.
An individual must possess certain qualities and skills in order to work as a clinical laboratory assistant. The ability to work well under pressure and be detail-oriented, as well as manual dexterity and good vision, are all required for the job. Individuals interested in a career as a clinical or medical laboratory assistant should have computer and organizational skills.
To work as a clinical laboratory assistant, a person must first obtain a high school diploma. She can then look for a program that meets her requirements. The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) both accredit medical and clinical laboratory assistant programs (CAAHEP). Although on-the-job training can be used to become a clinical laboratory assistant, earning a degree or certificate will make her more competitive in the job market. Those who work in laboratories must be registered or certified in some states.
Courses in medical terminology, human biology, clinical laboratory techniques, laboratory specimen processing, and clinical phlebotomy are typically included in certificate programs that enable a student to become a clinical laboratory assistant. After receiving the diploma or certification, the student may wish to apply for certification through a recognized professional association, such as the American Medical Technologists. The applicant must meet certain qualifications, pay an application fee, and pass an exam in order to obtain this professional certification. Following that, an annual fee as well as continuing education credits are required to keep the certification current. A student can also pursue a bachelor’s degree in order to work as a clinical laboratory assistant.