What is Medical Laboratory Science?

Medical laboratory science is the profession that provides essential analytical information to clinical staff such as doctors, that enable accurate and rapid diagnosis and treatment of patients. Modern medicine requires tests in areas such as:

• Haematology – diseases related to blood such as leukaemia and bleeding disorders
• Clinical biochemistry – changes in blood chemistry relate to illness like diabetes, drug abuse, cancer and heart disease
• Histology and cytology – microscopic analysis of tissues and cells to identify abnormalities observed in cancer biopsies and cervical smears
• Microbiology and virology – isolation of diseases caused by bacteria and viruses such as meningitis, hepatitis B infection and MRSA
• Immunology - dianosis of diseases related to dysfunction of the immune system
• Transfusion science – the use of blood products and blood group identification in patient treatment essential for organ transplantation, blood transfusion and clotting factor deficiencies
• Cytogenetics and molecular diagnostics– study the genetic basis of disease and detection of chromosomal abnormalities associated with Downs syndrome, CML and prenatal testing

Qualified medical laboratory scientists are a vital part of the health team in hospitals and the community. The life of a highly skilled medical laboratory scientist involves the use of cutting-edge technology, in a fast paced environment. This involves using sophisticated instruments and techniques with the application of theoretical knowledge about disease states, physiology, anatomy and organ and tissue function. These are combined to provide rapid, accurate and reliable results that are used by clinicians in the diagnosis, and treatment of patients. The medical laboratory scientist interacts with doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other health professionals to explain results, provide information on important aspects of tests and provide advice on additional testing. The range of specialties enables you to choose a discipline that you enjoy that is constantly challenging and continually evolving.

Graduation is only the beginning of your professional education.

A qualified medical laboratory scientist is professionally recognized, holds and annual practising certificate from the New Zealand Medical Sciences Council and is internationally sought after. Only individuals who have completed a Medical laboratory science degree can gain profession registration and practise as a medical laboratory scientist.