Question.1122 - We are most often familiar with the role of the nurse and doctor in healthcare, but there are multiple professions that contribute to the provision of healthcare services. Examine the role of one specific healthcare profession. You may select any profession in the healthcare field with the exception of a nurse or physician as the idea is to become more familiar with the range of professions in the industry, especially those that are less commonly understood by the general public. In your summary, include a description of the profession, required education, training required, work setting, their impact on an organization’s success and patient outcomes, future demand and potential shortages. Be sure to post an initial, substantive response by Thursday at 11:59 p.m. MT, and respond to two or more classmates or the instructor with substantive responses by Sunday at 11:59 p.m. MT. A substantive initial post answers the question presented completely and/or asks a thoughtful question pertaining to the topic. Be sure your post is unique. Do not repeat what other students have said. Substantive peer responses ask a thoughtful question pertaining to the topic and/or answers a question (in detail) posted by another student or the instructor.
Answer Below:
I would like to talk about the role of Clinical Laboratory Scientists (CLS) or Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) in healthcare. This profession is vital but often overlooked. As mentioned in the Explore Healthcare Careers article, "Medical laboratory science professionals are highly skilled scientists who detect the presence or absence of diseases and offer data that guide physicians in determining the most suitable treatment for patients" (Medical laboratory scientist/technician 2017). In simpler terms, CLS professionals conduct diagnostic tests that help doctors make accurate diagnoses and treatment choices. A bachelor's degree in medical technology or a similar subject is usually required to become a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS). After completing the academic requirements, aspiring CLS professionals must undergo essential clinical training in a hospital or clinical laboratory setting. This practical experience is vital for acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary to perform a diverse range of laboratory procedures. Clinical Laboratory Scientists, or CLS, are highly skilled experts who do detailed tests of blood, tissues, and physiological fluids in order to discover and identify illnesses, infections, and other medical disorders. Their role is critical in ensuring that patients receive accurate and timely care since physicians rely on test findings to make well-informed treatment decisions. The impact of Clinical Laboratory Scientists on an organization's success and patient outcomes cannot be overstated. Their work directly influences the precision of diagnoses and the selection of appropriate treatments, ultimately leading to improved patient results and satisfaction. Additionally, they play a crucial role in infection control and disease monitoring, especially during public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The demand for CLS professionals is expected to remain high, given the continuous advancements in healthcare and the growing significance of diagnostic testing. As the workforce in this field develops, and fewer fresh graduates enter the industry, there is rising concern about future shortages. Given the growing relevance of diagnostic testing in healthcare, it is critical to recognize and support the vital role that Clinical Laboratory Scientists play in ensuring the quality and accuracy of patient care. Reference: Medical laboratory scientist/technician. ExploreHealthCareers.org. (2017). https://explorehealthcareers.org/career/allied-health-professions/clinical-laboratory-scientist-technician/More Articles From Medicine