Get Certified as a Medical Laboratory Scientist: A Comprehensive Guide
Becoming a certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) is an important step in advancing your career in the healthcare industry. MLSs play a critical role in providing accurate and reliable diagnostic information that helps in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you obtain MLS certification:
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To become an MLS, you must have a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science (MLS) or a related field, such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry. A bachelor's degree program in MLS typically takes four years to complete and includes courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, hematology, and clinical chemistry. Some certification organizations may also require that you have completed a specific number of clinical laboratory hours.
Step 2: Gain Work Experience in a Laboratory Setting
After completing a bachelor's degree, you will need to gain work experience in a laboratory setting. This step is crucial as it will give you hands-on experience in various areas of laboratory science, such as hematology, clinical chemistry, and microbiology. During this time, you will work under the supervision of an experienced MLS and learn the skills and knowledge needed to perform complex laboratory procedures and analyze results.
Clinical Laboratory Management Association (CLMA) Career Center has a job board and career resources for laboratory professionals, including MLSs.
LabCorp is a leading diagnostic laboratory company that offers MLS job opportunities in various laboratory settings, including hospitals, clinics, and research labs.
Quest Diagnostics is another leading diagnostic laboratory company that offers MLS job opportunities in various laboratory settings.
Step 3: Choose a Certification Organization
There are several recognized certification organizations that offer MLS certification, including the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA), and the American Medical Technologists (AMT). Each organization has its own eligibility requirements, examination process, and fees, so it's important to research and choose the one that best meets your needs.
Step 4: Prepare for the Certification Examination
Once you have gained work experience, you will need to meet the eligibility requirements of the certification organization you wish to become certified with, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA).
To obtain MLS certification, you must pass a certification examination. Preparation for the examination is important, as it covers a wide range of subjects related to laboratory science, including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, hematology, and clinical chemistry. You can prepare for the examination by studying textbooks, attending review courses, and utilizing online resources.
Step 5: Register for the Certification Examination
Once you are ready to take the certification examination, you must register with the chosen certification organization. The examination fee, registration process, and scheduling will vary depending on the organization you choose.
Step 6: Take the Certification Examination
The certification examination is a comprehensive test that assesses your knowledge of laboratory science and your ability to apply this knowledge in a laboratory setting. The examination is typically computer-based and takes several hours to complete.
Step 7: Maintain Certification
Once you have passed the certification examination, you will need to maintain your certification by participating in continuing education programs and renewing your certification on a regular basis. This will help you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in laboratory science and maintain your skills and knowledge.
Overall, while the certification process can be challenging, it is achievable with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to learning and professional development. The reward for obtaining certification as an MLS is the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the healthcare industry and the satisfaction of being recognized as a skilled and knowledgeable professional.