Columbia State Community College recently honored eight medical laboratory technician graduates in a pinning ceremony in the Waymon L. Hickman Building.

“The need for medical laboratory technicians is very high right now due to the continuing demand for laboratory testing and current staff shortages,” said Lisa Harmon, Columbia State program director and assistant professor of medical laboratory technology. “This year's class already has several employers waiting for them to complete their education and pass their board of certification exams. They are needed by these employers in our area to fill critical shortages in their staffs. We are particularly thankful for the continued support of all our clinical partners who help us to meet this demand.” 

The Medical Laboratory Technology Associate of Applied Science degree academic plan involves two or more semesters of general education coursework followed by a 12-month, three-semester, series of core courses designed to provide classroom and clinical-based competencies that provide students with the tools for licensure examination success, gainful in-field employment and career satisfaction.

“Med Lab Techs are behind the scenes performing tests which are crucial for diagnosis and treatment,” said Dr. Kae Fleming, Columbia State dean of the Health Sciences Division. “Graduates have unlimited opportunities to contribute to better patient outcomes!” 

The medical laboratory technician possesses the technical skills necessary to perform routine testing in the areas of hematology, serology, coagulation, clinical microbiology, clinical chemistry, blood banking and urinalysis in clinical laboratories of hospitals, clinics and physician offices under the supervision of a physician and/or medical technologist.

Lab tests shape the majority of medical decisions made by physicians. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects the demand for medical laboratory professionals will increase at a rate nearly double the average increase for all populations.

For more information about Columbia State’s Medical Lab Technology program, click here.