The Future Is Prevention. The Future Is Medical Technology.

The health care industry is growing at a staggering rate. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the health care field should see a 22 percent increase in wage and salary jobs through 2016. Within this diverse field, the field of medical technology should also see significant job gains through 2016.

Medical Technology: The Nature of the Work

Medical technologists help detect, diagnose, and treat diseases at the laboratory level. Using everything from microscopes to computerized instruments, they analyze the bacterial and chemical contact of specimens such as blood, cells, and bodily fluids. Through a series of tests, such as biological, immunologic, bacteriological, microscopic, and more, medical technologists can assist physicians to diagnose and detect numerous diseases and other conditions.

Online Education Options

Today, through online education programs, earning an online degree is easier than ever. An online degree program in medical technology can provide the training you need to enter this rewarding field without impinging upon your busy schedule. Medical technology degree programs typically offer courses in chemistry, mathematics, statistics, biological sciences, microbiology and more. In addition to scientific-centered coursework, you should also expect a series of courses specific to developing your clinical laboratory skills.
The BLS notes that, before allowing aspiring medical technologists to work, some states require licensure in addition to the standard bachelor's degree requirement. To find out more, you can contact your state department of health or board of occupational licensing.

Medical Technology Career Options

According to the BLS, employment of medical technologists is expected to increase by 14 percent through 2016. The greatest employment gains are expected in diagnostic laboratories as well as ambulatory health care services.
In 2007, medical technicians earned a median annual salary of $34,270. Medical technologists earned a median annual salary of $51,720. In addition to diagnostic laboratories and ambulatory health care services, some of the top employers in 2007 included hospitals, physician offices, colleges and universities, as well as medical equipment suppliers.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Health Care
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Medical, Dental, and Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians

Karin Hansen lives and works in San Francisco. She graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in English literature, and edits a music blog in her spare time.