Difference Between Medical Laboratory Science and Medical Laboratory Technology

There are many people who still mix up the duties of a medical laboratory scientist with that of a medical laboratory technologist, this sometimes even affects their career choice in the long run. Therefore it is important that you have a perfect understanding of the similarities or differences between these two professions.

Read Also: Universities Offering Medical Laboratory Technology in Ghana

Who Is A Biomedical Laboratory Scientist?

A Biomedical Scientist is someone who works closely with medical doctors, nurses and other healthcare practitioners in the clinical diagnosis or treatment of a patient. Their work is more of evaluating biological samples using necessary equipment in the laboratory.

Who Is A Medical Laboratory Technologist?

On the other hand, a medical laboratory technologist is one who assists the scientist with the analytical procedures in the laboratory. You do not expect that the scientist does all the work as it would lead to inefficiency in the laboratory, that is why there would always be a need for a technologist at all times.

What Makes Medical Laboratory Science Different From Medical Laboratory Technology?

Well, there are so many reasons why there is a difference between these two positions. First of all, scientists spend long years in school(4-5 years) with the need for specialisation as they advance in their career while technologists require a diploma (2years) before they can start working in laboratories.

Also, scientists are made to undergo internships which involve clinical rotations throughout their study in the university but technologists might not need such rigorous training.

Is There A Difference In Their Job Description?

While they both share the same work environment, there are lots of differences between their job descriptions. For scientists their responsibilities include;

• Analysis of biological fluids such as blood, urine e.t.c
• Carrying out appropriate procedures for microbiology related samples
• Delivering laboratory results in confidentiality to patients/physicians
• Writing of medical reports
• Attending biomedical related seminars and workshops

Technologists would be required to;

• Analyse biological fluids such as blood, urine e.t.c
• Carry out appropriate procedures for microbiology related samples
• Deliver laboratory results in confidentiality to patients/physicians
• Ensure all equipment are calibrated and handled with care at all times
• Monitor the use and restocking of chemicals used in the laboratory
• Ensure all trainees adhere to laboratory instructions

Who Earns More?

Biomedical Scientists earn way more than technologists due to their responsibilities, qualifications and skillset that they provide on the job. If you are looking to earn more as a technologist, you might have to consider furthering your education to become a biomedical scientist/ chief technologist.

General Entry Requirements for Medical  Laboratory Science and Technology

Before a candidate is offered admission to study medical laboratory technology or medical laboratory science, he/she must meet these entry requirements.

(i) Candidates must have passed in Core English, Mathematics and Science subjects.

(ii) In addition to the above, candidates must have obtained aggregate 10 or better in Physics, Mathematics, and either Chemistry or Biology at grades not lower than D in three

(iii) of the following elective subjects: Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics with grades not lower than D in Biology and one (1) another Science subject

Conclusion

Regardless of the duration for studying both courses, the important thing is that you take time to understand which of the roles would suit you more. Besides if for one reason or the other you start from the position of a technologist, you can always dedicate time to furthering and improving your skills which would be useful if you decide to further your education to become a biomedical scientist.