Medical Technology (Laboratory)
Medical technology is a branch of health sciences that primarily deals with the laboratory analysis of blood, fluids, and tissues of the human body for the purpose of disease diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and maintaining the health of the community. The outcome of work in the field of medical technology or laboratory science is the reduction of treatment costs and time, and its significance lies in recommending the best options for treatment or disease prevention.
Definition of Laboratory
A laboratory is a place where various examinations and tests are conducted on clinical samples to obtain information about a person's health regarding diagnosis, treatment, and disease prevention.
What is a Technologist?
A technologist is an individual who holds a diploma or bachelor's degree in medical technology (laboratory) or higher from one of the health science institutes, either domestically or internationally, and possesses certification from the Ministry of Public Health or higher education institutions in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. A laboratory technologist performs various examinations in hematology, histopathology, mycology, bacteriology, parasitology, etc., for the diagnosis and prevention of diseases.
Required and Recommended Skills
The courses in the laboratory field overlap significantly with those in other medical fields. Subjects like chemistry and biology are particularly important, and students must also be interested in practical work in the laboratory environment. Graduates of this field not only conduct various tests but also ensure the importance and reliability of the data obtained through repeated examinations and the application of different quality control methods, consulting with doctors and other health personnel. Therefore, attention to detail, patience, and responsibility are essential traits for candidates in this field.
Duties of a Technologist
- Collecting laboratory samples (urine, stool, blood, etc.)
- Performing various examinations and repeating them if necessary
- Using computerized and automated equipment for various tests
- Recording the results of examinations and informing the individuals tested
- Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of laboratory examination tools
- Monitoring the quantity of materials needed for tests and ordering them if necessary
Job Future and Job Market
Graduates of this field can work in private and public laboratory sectors; in hospitals, clinics, and health centers. Additionally, with a bachelor's degree or higher, they can work in specialized laboratory fields such as pathology, microbiology, biochemistry, parasitology, toxicology, mycology, etc.
Future Outlook Regarding Employment in Social Context
Medical technology graduates can pursue advanced degrees in related fields such as biochemistry, hematology, bacteriology, microbiology, parasitology, virology, mycology, toxicology, biotechnology, etc., at the master's level and then specialize with a Ph.D.
Physical Characteristics and Necessary Abilities for the Job
A technologist must be in good physical, mental, and emotional health, be precise, interested, and patient, and have adequate control over personal emotions.
Duration of Study
The duration of study in the field of medical technology at the diploma level is two years, and at the university level, it is four years.
Laboratory Studies at the Diploma Level
Opportunities for interested individuals in the laboratory field at the diploma level are available by successfully completing four semesters at public and private health science institutes.
Faculty of Medical Technology (Higher Education)
The Faculty of Medical Technology aims to enhance the scientific and professional level of experts in medical technology or laboratory science, with students graduating with a bachelor's degree after successfully completing eight semesters of study
