Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT)
Medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) play a critical role in the health system by performing lab tests on blood, body fluids, cells and tissues – nearly half a million in Ontario each day.
A blood sugar test to diagnose and monitor diabetes...a biopsy to check for cancer…prenatal testing to detect genetic diseases…enzyme analysis to identify heart disease…assessment of cells and tissues to aid surgical decisions - these and thousands of other tests performed by MLTs provide the results other health professionals need to deliver the best care.
MLTs in various specialties collect and process specimens, analyze results, and interpret findings. The knowledge and expertise of the MLT contributes to innovation in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases and medical conditions.
Every MLT is a regulated health care professional as mandated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991. In accordance with the legislation, MLTs:
- are the only individuals allowed to use the restricted title of medical laboratory technologist
- have a defined scope of practice, which includes authorization to perform a medical act
- may extend their professional practice beyond their scope of practice through delegation and medical directives
(For additional information related to expanded scope of practice, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions.) - meet strict safety and ethical standards and are held accountable for their conduct and practice, so the public can have confidence in their lab tests.
The Canadian Alliance of Medical Laboratory Professionals Regulators (CAMLPR) is a voluntary alliance of medical laboratory technology provincial health regulatory authorities. CMLTO is a member and Registrar & CEO Kathy Wilkie is the current Chair of the CAMLPR Board.
CAMLPR’s founding purpose is to provide an infrastructure and forum through which Canadian regulators of medical laboratory professionals can anticipate and respond to regulatory challenges and opportunities on interprovincial, territorial, national and global levels. Visit the CAMLPR website at www.camlpr.org to learn more.
