A medical assistant student who seeks a fulfilling career that blends science and healthcare should consider becoming a medical lab assistant. These professionals perform a variety of tasks within healthcare facilities or independent laboratories. They help gather patient information, vital signs, or other health data that physicians use to make accurate diagnoses and determine treatment options, as well as carry out critical administrative functions.
This role is experiencing increasing demand and offers a quality entry-level opportunity, with chances for further advancement. Prism Career Institute offers healthcare training programs, including a Medical Assistant program, in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Here, we outline the typical responsibilities of a medical lab assistant and discuss this career’s outlook.
Common Responsibilities of a Medical Lab Assistant
A medical lab assistant may perform several different tasks on a given day. They work alongside colleagues under a physician or healthcare provider’s supervision. Performing the following tasks well – while following all directions and regulations – allows an assistant to help a facility serve patients effectively:
- Collecting patient bodily fluid samples or other specimens for examination
- Developing reports on lab data
- Disposing of contaminated material properly
- Getting lab instruments ready for examinations or research
- Keeping a laboratory and its equipment clean and sterilized
- Maintaining clear aisles within a lab
- Monitoring expiration dates of medical supplies
- Notifying someone if any equipment becomes damaged
- Performing phlebotomy*
- Preparing samples according to laboratory standards
- Placing the right labels on samples and sorting them correctly
- Putting samples or specimens in a freezer or refrigerator
- Recording and maintaining accurate records
- Running lab tests and providing a physician with the results
- Using a centrifuge, incubator, or microscope
In addition to these tasks, a medical lab assistant may talk with a patient to go over directions to follow ahead of a scheduled test or to book a test. They may also communicate with other healthcare facilities to make sure appropriate patient tests are completed and that the results are reviewed. Lab supervisors may also have an assistant perform billing work or talk with insurance providers, processing claims and ensuring a patient receives correct statements.
Professional Guidelines for Medical Lab Assistants
While working in a lab, an assistant needs to maintain professionalism to keep everyone safe and not compromise any samples. They must follow patient confidentiality standards within the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and any other federal or local regulations. In all their work, assistants should prioritize patient care, maintain effective collaboration practices with their colleagues, and behave with the dignity expected of their profession.
Common rules and regulations to follow within a lab include:
- Not eating food, drinking beverages, chewing gum, or applying cosmetics in a lab
- Only using a biosafety cabinet or a chemical fume hood when directed to
- Reporting any unusual activity or test result discrepancies
- Washing hands frequently
- Wearing appropriate protective equipment
Job Outlook for Medical Lab Assistants
There’s an increased demand for medical lab assistants, as healthcare technology advances and experienced professionals make career changes or retire. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical lab assistant employment is projected to grow five percent by 2033.
After landing an entry-level role, a medical lab assistant can advance their career through years of service and continuing their education. Earning certifications, such as a medical laboratory assistant credential, can help them advance their career. Some medical assistants also go on to become practical nurses or registered nurses (RNs).
Medical Assistant Program at Prism Career Institute
At Prism Career Institute, our Medical Assistant program features 720 hours completed over 40 weeks. The curriculum consists of 420 lecture hours, 150 lab hours, and 150 externship hours. Students will receive in-depth training in topics like:
- Medical law and ethics
- Anatomy and physiology
- Pharmacology
- Phlebotomy
- Patient history and vital signs
- Clinical procedures
- Hygiene and infection control
- Records management
- Professional communication
We provide small classroom environments, so students can receive individualized attention during their studies. Our MA program is offered in day classes at our Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, campus and day and evening classes at our Cherry Hill or West Atlantic City, New Jersey, locations. We also offer financial aid to students who qualify and offer career services for additional support.
Learn the Skills You Need to Be a Medical Lab Assistant
With the proper education, a student can learn the skills and discipline necessary to work as a medical lab assistant. By enrolling in Prism Career Institute’s Medical Assistant program in NJ or PA, students can gain knowledge from our quality instructors and participate in firsthand experiences. This education gives students the skills they need for fulfilling healthcare careers. Apply online or contact us today for more information.