International Directory of Medical Laboratory Science Education

IDMLSEInternational Directory

ofMedical Laboratory Science Education

Compiled by Britta Karlsson, Solveig Turner et al. in co-operation with National Associations

IFBLS is not responsible for the accuracy of information provided in this document.Please contact the individual National Association for the most current educational information.

Many individuals and associations have contributed time and information in this compilation and IFBLS wishes to express our thanks to all involved.

It is hoped this guide will prove beneficial and assist educators as well as students.

Ideally additional countries will wish to include specific Educational Train-ing programs and those already listed will strive to keep information as cur-rent and correct as possible.

Please note the IFBLS CAN NOT answer queries on any of the countries contained in the directory.

Individual Associations and/or country contacts are listed at the end of each section.

IFBLS editorial staff and managment

International Directory of

Medical Laboratory Science Education

AUSTRALIA (2004) 3BARBADOS (1996) 12CANADA (2000) 19CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC (1996) 29CHILE (1996) 34PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA (1998) 42COLOMBIA (1996) 50DOMINICAN REPUBLIC (1998) 56ECUADOR (1996) 61ETHIOPIA (1998) 65FIJI (1998) 70GHANA(1997) 74HONG KONG (SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION [SAR]) (2004) 78ICELAND (2000) 96IRAN (1996) 101JAMAICA (1997) 109KUWAIT (2000) 117LATVIA (1998) 122LIBYA (1998) 126LUXEMBOURG (2000) 133MALAYSIA (1997) 139MAURITIUS (1996) 148NEPAL (2003) 152NIGERIA (1996) 156NORWAY (2004) 166PANAMA (1998) 172PHILIPPINES (1997) 176SERBIA-YUGOSLAVIA (1997) 180SINGAPORE (1997) 185SLOVAK REPUBLIC (1996) 191REPUBLIC OF KOREA (2004) 197SWAZILAND (1998) 205SWEDEN (2000) 207SWITZERLAND (2000) 216TAIWAN (1996) 222THAILAND (1997) 230TRINIDAD & TOBAGO (1996) 235TUNISIA (1998) 242UGANDA (1998) 248USA (1996) 252ZIMBABWE (2000) 265

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AUSTRALIA

1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12primary school secondary school

1 2 3 Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (Pathology Testing) (1 to 4 yr part time or full time)= Intermediate member of AIMS†

1 2 3 Bachelor of Science(Medical Science/Laboratory Medicine)(3 or 4 yr full-time or 6 yr part time)( = Graduate of AIMS) †

1* 2* ( = Member of AIMS)

1* 2* 3* (+ Examination = Fellow of AIMS)

1 2 3 Bachelor of Science1* 2* (+ Membership Examination

= Member of AIMS)

1* 2* 3* (+ Fellowship Examination = Fellow of AIMS)

1 2 Master of Science (in relevant discipline)Post Graduate Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science or Laboratory Medicine.

Note:* = Professional laboratory experience.†AIMS = Australian Institute of Medical Scientists

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2. COUNTRY BACKGROUND

In the absence of formal governmental regulation of medical laboratory personnel in Australia, employment as a Medical Scientist would generally require the medical scientist to be eligible for professional membership of the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists. (AIMS). The professional categories of membership are Graduate members, Members, Fellows and Life Members.

Holders of a Bachelor of Science in Medical Science or Laboratory Medicine from an accredited program qualify for Membership of AIMS at the Graduate level. Graduate members who have a minimum of two years postgraduate medical laboratory experience are classified as full Members. Persons with non-accredited Bachelor of Science degrees are required to sit for an examination before becoming Members.

A Member of not less than three years standing, who has passed the Fellowship examinations may qualify as a Fellow of AIMS. The Institute encourages Members to study for the AIMS Fellowship which is the highest professional qualification members can obtain. The Fellowship has been available since 1964. Approximately 10% of the membership are Fellows and approximately 6-7% hold Masters degrees. The Institute also has about 1% of members who hold a Doctorate level qualification.

Graduates of a general science degree who have worked for two years in a clinical laboratory are accepted into Associate or Intermediate member categories. Associates have to sit an examination to become a full Member. Students enrolled in an AIMS accredited course are entitled to become Student members.

Prior to 1984 there were three year part-time Certificate programs for Medical Laboratory Technicians. These were upgraded to a four year part-time Associate Diploma (the time of implementation varied between states); subsequently (in 1995), this title was changed to a Diploma (dropping the prefix ‘Associate’). Persons holding Associate Diplomas (now Diplomas) in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Techniques or Biological Techniques, or Pathology Technician Certificates are eligible to become ‘Intermediate’ members in the AIMS and are considered suitable for employment as medical laboratory technicians.

3. LEVELS AND LENGTH OF TRAINING

There are two levels of Medical Laboratory Science training in Australia:

1) Post-secondary level:Diploma of Laboratory Technology one to four years, part time or full time, depending on the State in which the course is conducted

Bachelor of Science (Medical Science or Laboratory Medicine) three or four years full time or the equivalent part-time.

2) Graduate levelPost Graduate Diploma and Masters in Medical Science/Laboratory Medicine/Pathology. These courses may also be available on line or by distance education.

Specialisation at Master of Science level - two years, post-baccalaureate. Relevant Doctorate of Philosophy.

4. ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

Basic entrance requirement for all degree and diploma level courses is successful completion of 12 years of schooling. Admission to the postgraduate programs requires Bachelor of Science degree or an Honors

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degree.

5. SCOPE OF THE FIELD

Diploma and bachelor level Medical Laboratory Science education is multi-disciplinary, including hematology, histopathology, microbiology, clinical biochemistry, pathology and immunology. This is a reflection of the need for some medical scientists in Australia to be responsible for small hospital laboratories where total staff may include only three medical scientists responsible for 24-hour coverage. Most continuing education of medical scientists is offered by the professional associations, although some tertiary institutions run postgraduate programs and short courses in both specialised and cross-discipline areas of medical science. The continuing education activities of AIMS are organised on a national, state, and regional basis. Such activities include the annual National Conference, publication of the Australian Journal of Medical Science, broadsheets, self-assessment programs, national newsletter, branch newsletters, organisation of the Immunohaematology Quality Assurance Program, state and national workshops, discussion groups and scientific meetings.

6. CURRICULUM

A. DEGREE COURSESAIMS has accredited twelve medical laboratory science degree programs in Australian and New Zealand universities.

AIMS publishes a minimum requirements document that forms the basis for AIMS accreditation process. To be accredited by AIMS, courses must comply with these requirements.

AIMS MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCREDITED DEGREE COURSES (2004)

Entry RequirementsNormal entry requirements should include chemistry and mathematics, and two other subjects at matriculation level, following twelve years of schooling. Alternative entry, gained through the institution’s process for recognition of prior learning, may be accepted.

Course NomenclatureIt is important that the course titles of AIMS-accredited courses allow for easy distinction of these courses from other non-directed Biomedical Science and Medical Science courses.

Course nomenclature of AIMS-accredited courses can be of two formats:

Bachelor of Descriptor - for example, Bachelor of Medical Laboratory ScienceBachelor of Generic Title (Descriptor) – for example, Bachelor of Applied Science (Laboratory Medicine)

The AIMS recommended course Descriptor is the term Laboratory Medicine, although the older term Medical Laboratory Science is also acceptable. Acceptable generic titles include Science, Applied Science and Medical Science – none of these generic titles should be used without an additional course descriptor. The use of the term Biomedical Science is not recommended, as either a generic title or a descriptor.

The following nomenclature of current AIMS-accredited courses is also acceptable:Bachelor of Science (Medical Science)

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Bachelor of Medical Science (Pathology)

StaffingIt is essential that these criteria be met for the course to be accredited. They have been established in recognition that courses preparing graduates to become members of the Medical Science profession are applied vocationally oriented courses.

i) the course shall be directed and administered by a person of recognised stature in the professional field of medical laboratory science.

ii) the level of appointment of the person directing the course shall be such as to confer the authority necessary to administer and direct the course subject to the academic policies and procedures of the educational institution.

iii) full-time academic staff shall be qualified above the basic degree level as evidenced by higher formal academic qualifications and/or professional qualifications.

iv) full-time academic staff responsible for teaching the clinically based medical laboratory science subjects shall have extensive professional laboratory experience in one or more of the clinical disciplines.

v) the qualification of such staff shall normally be those that meet the requirements for a senior scientist as defined by the National Pathology Advisory Accreditation Committee, i.e., Fellowship of the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists, or the Australasian Association Clinical Biochemists or the Australian Society of Microbiologists or a PhD in a relevant discipline, plus ten years experience in a clinical laboratory

vi insufficiencies in any particular area of full-time staffing in the clinical laboratory science area may be offset by the employment of professional scientists as part-time staff. Such staff should not exceed 20% of full-time staffing.

Course Structure and ContentThe course shall be an ordered, integrated study of medical laboratory science in two or more disciplines following a study of basic physical and biomedical sciences. There should be evidence of instruction in the pathological basis of disease processes, such that students will acquire an appreciation of how laboratory results in each of the clinical disciplines relates to the clinical diagnosis, treatment, and pathogenesis.

The course shall be of a depth and intellectual demand which, in the opinion of the Institute, meets the professional requirements for a medical scientist.

Basic Physical and Biomedical SciencesWith the exception of the unit Communications in Science, the course must be structured to provide tuition (for all units), laboratory sessions (for most units) and final examinations (for all units).

All approved courses must include:Chemistry - two semesters of tuition extending basic chemical concepts and mechanisms beyond the normal upper secondary study of the subject. The course should include particular reference to organic chemistry, physical chemistry and analytical chemistry.

Communication in Science - one semester of tuition giving the student the ability to prepare and interpret tables and figures and also to understand statistical concepts applicable to quality assurance, analysis of data, reference ranges, and experimental design. Included should be instruction that gives students the ability to use the library, retrieve scientific information via electronic transfer, and to be proficient in the use of email and the Internet. Further, on completion of this subject unit, students should have

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developed the skills needed to give oral and visual presentations, and to prepare scientific reports using correct scientific citation. NB: It is acceptable if the elements of this unit are provided in the first year of the program under a range of unit titles.

Human anatomy and physiology - two semesters of tuition in anatomy including the histological organisation of the human body, the function of systems and cells, including abnormal structure and function, and the concepts of homeostasis and control.

General Microbiology – one semester of tuition in the characteristics of microorganisms, their culture and identification and their interaction with human beings.

Biochemistry/ Molecular Biology/ Cell Biology/Genetics – a minimum of three semesters including at least one semester of biochemistry (including biomolecule structure/function relationships, and mammalian metabolism), one semester of molecular biology (including its theoretical basis and the application of molecular biology techniques in disease diagnosis), and coverage of the structure, function and regulation of the cell including the genetics of the cell at a molecular level.

Immunology – one semester of tuition in the organs and cells of the immune system and the normal and abnormal immune responses. This should include the pathological conditions associated with these. The unit must also provide a sound knowledge of the principles of immunological techniques and their diagnostic value.

Computing – as most year twelve students now have a good understanding in the use of computers this is no longer a requirement. However, for those students with limited understanding or skills, opportunities must be provided to gain the necessary knowledge and skills required to succeed in a Medical Science degree.

Professional Medical Science Component:Following the underpinning of basic units in the first year, the professional subjects should be structured to provide a logical sequence throughout the second and third years of the course. Irrespective of whether the course is structured with no choice or whether students have the choice of additional study in limited discipline areas, all courses must meet the following:

i) include a minimum of two semesters in each of the following subjects:Clinical Chemistry/Clinical BiochemistryClinical MicrobiologyHaematology

ii) include a minimum of one semester in each of the following subjects:Transfusion ScienceHistopathology/HistotechniquesGeneral Pathology

iii) There should also be a Cytology unit, however, we are mindful of the difficulty in obtaining suitable specimens and therefore, while this unit is strongly recommended, it is not mandatory.

iv) The third or fourth year must contain a general pathology type unit which may include Pathophysiology or Studies of Disease, including Cytogenetics, Oncology, Pharmacology, and/or a project.

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v) The course must be structured to provide laboratory sessions, which should include a variety of clinical specimens, in addition to theory tuition and final examinations. .

Professional PracticeThree months practical placement is desirable. This may be reduced to a minimum of six weeks depending on the quality and quantity of laboratory practice in the course.

Physical FacilitiesThe course shall be conducted in buildings with space and equipment sufficient to carry out all of the activities implied in the curriculum of the course and the activities of the staff.

Library FacilitiesThe library shall contain modern text books covering both basic and applied disciplines ranging from an elementary to an advanced level.

Also required is a range of journals related to medical science; with access to full-text online journals complementing the hard-copy collection. A variety of non book material suitable for teaching and learning at a degree level should available, as well as adequate electronic access to both scientific and medical data bases.

Support Staff and ServicesAdequate numbers of laboratory staff, shall be provided to support the teaching of the subjects contained in the course.

Other student facilities should include adequate numbers of computers, printers etc.

Professional Course Accreditation and Institutional ValidationAll courses should have a course advisory committee, 75% of the members of which should be experienced medical scientists employed in clinical laboratories. The chairperson should be a senior medical scientist.

Meetings should be held at least annually; minutes of the meetings should be available for inspection by the course assessors. There should be regular written reports, and personal contacts with academic staff who teach the professional subjects.

DIPLOMA COURSES

Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Pathology Testing) courses are conducted at State institutes of Technical and Further Education (TAFE) and other Registered Training Organisations (RTO) throughout Australia.

These are based on the national Laboratory Operations Training Package (LOTP). Within this single qualification, students may obtain either a generic qualification or a streamed qualification. There are four of these one of which is the Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Pathology Testing)

Candidates are required to complete twenty units of competency, consisting of thirteen compulsory core units, with the balance of units made up from stream core units specified for each qualification, and electives that satisfy requirements.

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Compulsory core units of competency for ALL Diplomas

Achieve the following THIRTEEN compulsory core unitsPML COM 300 A Communicate with other peoplePML COM 500 A Provide information to customersPML DATA 300 A Process and record dataPML DATA 500 A Analyse data and report resultsPML DATA 501 A Use laboratory application softwarePML MAIN 300 A Maintain the laboratory fit for purposePML OHS 300 A Work safely in accordance with defined policies and proceduresPML ORG 300 A Follow established work planPML QUAL 401 A Apply quality system and continuous improvement processesPML TEAM 300 A Work efficiently as part of a teamPML TEST 400 A Perform instrumental tests/proceduresPML TEST 402 A Prepare, standardise and use solutionsPML TEST 500 A Calibrate and maintain instruments

Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Pathology Testing)

For the Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Pathology Testing), candidates must achieve a total of twenty (20) units of competency. In addition to achieving the thirteen (13) compulsory core units listed for all Diplomas, they must achieve a further seven (7) units as follows:

Stream core units of competency

Achieve all SIX of the following stream core units

PML TEST 301 A Perform biological laboratory proceduresPML TEST 305 A Perform aseptic techniquesPML TEST 501 A Perform microbiological testsPML TEST 502 A Perform haematological testsPML TEST 503 A Perform histological testsPML TEST 504 A Perform chemical pathology tests

Elective units of competency

Achieve ONE elective drawn from units listed below or from the Advanced Diploma in this Training Package, or from units imported from other Training Packages that satisfy the packaging rules defined earlierPML MAIN 500 A Maintain and control stocksPML MAIN 501 A Assist with the maintenance of reference materialPML ORG 500 A Schedule laboratory work for a small teamPML SAMP 400 A Obtain representative samples in accordance with sampling planPML TEST 506 A Apply spectrometric techniquesPML TEST 507 A Apply chromatographic and electrophoretic techniquesPML TEST 509 A Perform immunohaematological testsBSZ 404 A Train small groups

DEGREE PROGRAMS

Nine directed medical laboratory science bachelor degree programs from Australian universities and three from New Zealand universities have been accredited by the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS). Graduates of these courses are accepted for membership at Graduate level in AIMS. An applicant with this qualification and a minimum of two years postgraduate professional medical laboratory experience in an approved laboratory may join the Institute as a full Member.

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Applicants who do not meet the criteria for professional Membership of AIMS may be eligible for Intermediate membership.

AIMS DIRECTED DEGREE COURSES

QUEENSLAND UNIVERSITYOF TECHNOLOGY

UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA

Bachelor of Applied Science (Medical Science) Bachelor of Medical Science)School of Life Sciences (Level 5, Q Block) Faculty of Applied ScienceQld University of Technology School of Biomedical SciencesGPO Box 2434, BRISBANE QLD 4001 University of CanberraTel: (07) 3864 2559 Fax: (07) 3864 1534 CANBERRA ACT 2601http://www.life.sci.qut.edu.au Tel: (02) 6201 2243 Fax: (02) 6201 5727

http://science.canberra.edu.auCHARLES STURT UNIVERSITYBachelor of Medical Science (Pathology) UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, SYDNEYCharles Sturt University Bachelor of Science in Biomedical SciencePO Box 588, WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678 University of Technology, SydneyTel: (02) 6933 2541 (HM 69332195) Fax: (02) 6933 2587

Westbourne Street, GORE HILL NSW 2065

http://www.csu.edu.au/faculty/health/biomed/ Tel: (02) 9514 4103, Fax: (02) 9514 4026http://www.uts.edu.au/study

UNIVERSITY OF TASMANIA (This degree has been approved as an acceptable qualification

Bachelor of Biomedical Science provided the medical laboratory science option is followed)

University of TasmaniaLocked Bag 1320, LAUNCESTON TAS 7250 JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY OF

NORTH QUEENSLANDTel: (03) 6324 5483 (BD 63243029) Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Scienceshttp://www.healthsci.utas.edu.au/biomed/Biohome.html

James Cook University

Douglas, TOWNSVILLE QLD 4814UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA Tel: (07) 4781 4449 Fax: (07) 4781 6174Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine http://www.jcu.edu.auSchool of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences OTAGO UNIVERSITYUniversity of South Australia, City East Campus Bachelor of Medical Laboratory ScienceADELAIDE SA 5000 Pathology Department, Medical SchoolTel: (08) 8302 2410 Fax: (08) 8302 2389 University of Otago, PO Box 913http://www.unisa.edu.au DUNEDIN NEW ZEALAND

Tel: 0011 64 (3) 479 7845 Fax: 0011 64 (3) 479 7136

CURTIN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY http://www.otago.ac.nzBachelor of Science (Medical Science)School of Biomedical Sciences MASSEY UNIVERSITYCurtin University of Technology Bachelor of Medical Laboratory ScienceGPO Box U 1987, PERTH WA 6001 College of SciencesTel: (08) 9266 7375 Fax: (08) 9266 2342 Massey University, Private Bag 11222http://www.curtin.edu.au/curtin/dept/biomed/ PALMERSTON NORTH NEW ZEALAND

Tel: 0011 64 (6) 350 4021 Fax: 0011 64 (6) 350 5636

RMIT UNIVERSITY http://www.massey.ac.nzBachelor of Applied Science(Laboratory Medicine)School of Medical Sciences/Division of Laboratory Medicine

AUCKLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

GPO Box 71, BUNDOORA VIC 3083 Bachelor of Medical Laboratory SciencesTel: (03) 9925 7082 Fax: 03 9925 7083 Private Bag 92019, AUCKLAND 1020 NEW

ZEALAND 9973www.rmit.edu.au/medical-sciences Tel: 0011 64 (9) 307 9999 Ext 8771 Fax: 0011 64

(9) 307http://www.aut.ac.nz

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OSTGRADUATE COURSESRMIT UNIVERSITYDegree of Master of Applied Science (Medical Science) – available online/distance learningDivision of Laboratory MedicineSchool of Medical SciencesBundoora CampusPO Box 71Bundoora Vic 3083Tel: (03) 9925 7075

Graduate Diploma (Laboratory Medicine)Division of Laboratory MedicineSchool of Medical SciencesBundoora CampusPO Box 71Bundoora Vic 3083Tel: (03) 9925 7075www.rmit.edu.au/medical-sciences

QUEENSLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGYDegree of Master of ScienceSchool of Life SciencesQld University of TechnologyGPO Box 2434BRISBANE QLD 4001http://www.life.sci.qut.edu.au

CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITYMaster of Medical Science (Pathology)Graduate Diploma in Medical Science (Pathology)Charles Sturt UniversityPO Box 588WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650http://www.csu.edu.au/faculty/health/biomed

CURTIN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGYPostgraduate Diploma in Medical Laboratory ScienceGPO Box U1987Perth WA 6001http://www.curtin.edu.au/curtin/dept/biomed

8. PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION

(a) Accreditation - The Australian Institute of Medical Scientists Academic Course Accreditation Committee accredits and

reviews Australian and New Zealand degree courses in Medical Laboratory Science. Courses are normally accredited every five years; Australian courses are accredited against the AIMS minimum

requirements document. The main references used to assess overseas courses are the Country Education Profiles produced by the Australian National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition.

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BARBADOS

l. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE

G.C.E. ‘O’ Level/ CXC General Proficiency**1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

primary and secondary schoolCertificate

Barbados Community College 1 2 Medical Laboratory Technology (Phased out between 1988-89)

Diploma Barbados Community College 1* 2* Medical Laboratory Technology(C.A.S.M.E.T.) (Phased out by 1991)

(C.A.S.M.E.T.) 1* 2* 3* 4* Fellowship

Barbados Community College 1 Diploma in Microbiology

1 2 3 4 Bachelor of Science← (Under Consideration)

Barbados Community College 1 2 3 Associate DegreeMedical Laboratory Technology

1⁄2 Internship

Note:C.A.S.M.E.T. = Specialization via examinations of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists.* = Part-time program.** = General Certificate of Education ‘Ordinary’ Level/ Caribbean Examinations Council, General Proficiency Level.


Until 1990 Medical Technology education in Barbados was offered in two programs following the completion of secondary school. A 2-year full-time program at Barbados Community College led to the Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate. This program consisted of six terms of study. On successful completion of the course the student was eligible to sit for the Barbados Community College certification examination. This certificate was phased out between 1988 - 1989. A l2-month full-time program for the Diploma in Microbiology was offered by the Barbados Community College for graduates of the Certificate program or equivalent education. In addition, specialization was offered in individual subjects through the examinations of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists at two levels: the Diploma level and the Fellowship level.

In 1990 a 3-year full-time program, followed by 6 months of internship, was introduced. In 1991 the part-time Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology was phased out, while the Diploma in Microbiology continued. The

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Fellowship programs also continued but only by thesis with CASMET. Currently under consideration is a B.Sc. program offering.


Prior to 1990:

(l) Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate - a 2-year (6-term) full-time program offered through Barbados Community College to secondary school graduates.

(2) A l2-month program for the Diploma in Microbiology - offered at Barbados Community College to holders of the Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology from Barbados Community College who have one year of work experience in a laboratory, and to Medical Laboratory Technology graduates of other institutions in the Caribbean region, or to holders of a B.Sc. in a related science subject who have a minimum of six months of laboratory experience in an approved clinical laboratory.

(3) The Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology - a 2-year part-time program in a specialization achieved through the examinations of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists, following two years of work experience in a laboratory and membership in the Association for at least one year. Specializations are in: Clinical Chemistry, Bacteriology and Parasitology, Immunology and Immunohematology, Hematology, Histology and Cytology, or Virology and Mycology.

(4) Fellowship - a part-time program in a specialization achieved through the examinations of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists, after six years of service in a laboratory following the Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate or two years of work experience in a laboratory following the Diploma examination.

After 1990:

(1) Associate Degree Medical Laboratory Technology - a 3-year full-time program at the Barbados Community College, followed by 6 months of internship.

(2) A 12-month program for the Diploma in Microbiology - Same as #2 above.

(3) Fellowship - only by thesis with CASMET.


Prior to 1990:(1) Applicants to the Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate Program had to fulfill the following:

(a) Five passes either through the examinations of the General Certificate of Education, Ordinary level or the Caribbean Examinations Council, General Proficiency level, in English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology and one other subject; OR(b) Successful completion of the Pre-Health Services Course offered by the Barbados Community College.

(2) Applicants to the Diploma in Microbiology program had to fulfill one of the following requirements:

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(a) Successful completion of the Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology at an institution in the Caribbean region; OR(b) The Barbados Community College Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate, followed by one year of work experience in a medical laboratory; OR(c) B.Sc. in a related science subject with a minimum of six months of work experience in an approved laboratory/laboratories, rotating through all areas of specialization.

(3) Applicants to the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (Specialization) program had to fulfill the following:

(a) Success in the Certificate examination from a Medical Laboratory Technology program in the Caribbean region or equivalent; AND(b) Completion of at least two years of post-certificate training in the specialty of choice in a general medical laboratory or equivalent; AND(c) Membership in the MLT Association for at least one year prior to examination date.

(4) Laboratorians could apply to the Fellowship examinations:

(a) After six years of service in a laboratory following completion of the Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate; OR (b) After two years of work experience in a laboratory following receipt of the Diploma in Medical Technology.

After 1990:(1) Associate Degree in Medical Laboratory Science - Same as #1 above.

(2) Diploma in Microbiology - Same as #2 above.

(3) Fellowship - Same as #4 above.


Medical Laboratory Technology education in Barbados is polyvalent. It includes education and training in Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Blood Banking, Microbiology and Histopathology.

At career entry the Certified Medical Laboratory Technician is to have capabilities in: performing analyses, problem solving, systems control, organization & communication, supervising 1 or 2 people, and in teaching others through demonstration. Active participation in continuing education and in-service programs is expected of the new graduates.Before 1990, work experience, independent study and examinations allowed practicing medical laboratorians to obtain the Diploma and the Fellowship of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists in one of the following specializations:

Clinical Chemistry Immunology and Immunohematology Hematology Bacteriology and Parasitology Virology and Mycology Histology and Cytology

Currently, only the Fellowship is available by thesis, through the CASMET.

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6. CURRICULUM

Below are given the curricula of the Pre-Health Services Course, the Medical Laboratory Technology program, the Diploma in Microbiology program, and the Associate Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology program as offered at Barbados Community College.

Curriculum of Pre-Health Services CourseBarbados Community College, 1986

(Three 12-week terms)

Lectures/Discussion/Labs* Total Hoursl. Language for Health Workers 752. (a) Review of Basic Arithmetic 45 (b) Elementary Mathematics 903. Biology 1084. (a) Physics 108 (b) Chemistry 1085. Social Studies 906. Orientation to Being a Student 157. Orientation to Health and the Health Services

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* There are laboratory sessions for all the basic sciences.

The Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology program consists of two years or six terms of study. The content of the program is designed to integrate with other Medical Laboratory Technology programs throughout the Caribbean.

Barbados Community College-Division of Health SciencesDiploma Medical Laboratory Technology Program, l986

Year 1Term Courses Hours Weeks Total hrs Total hrs Practice T P per term per yearl Chemistry 4.5 l.5 12 72 Human anatomy 3 l.5 12 54 & Physiology Introduction to MLT 3 6 12 108 108 Physics 3 12 36 2 Chemistry 4.5 l.5 12 72 144 Human Anatomy & Physiology 3 l.5 12 54 108 Microbiology I 4.5 5 12 114 114 Physics 3 12 36 72 Computer Awareness l l 12 24 24 3 Instrumentation l.5 3 12 72 72 Chemical Pathology I 4.5 5 12 114 114 Hematology I Lab. 4.5 5 12 114 114 Mathematics 2 12 24 24 Total 894

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Summer School Practicum Microbiology 40 Chemical Pathology 40 Histopathology 40 Blood Banking 40 Hematology 40 200

Year 2Term Courses Hours Weeks Total hrs Total hrs Practice T P per term per yearl Hematology II 3 4 14 98 98 Histopathology 3 4 14 98 98 Microbiology II 3 4 14 98 98 2 Chemical Pathology II 3 5 12 96 210 Clinical experience 2883 MLT Seminar 2 10 20 20 Clinical experience 33 10 330 330 Total 524 818

Total course hours: 2,236

Barbados Community CollegeDiploma in Microbiology, 1986

Term Courses Hours/week No.of Weeks Total hours T P per coursel Microbiology 3 5 12 96 Pathophysiology 4 12 48 Instrumentation l.5 l.5 12 36 Laboratory techniques l l 12 24 Psychology 3 12 36 2 Microbiology 3 5 12 96 Speech& Communication 4 12 48 Management 4 12 48 Laboratory techniques l l 12 24 Seminar 2 12 24

Clinical experience: 24 weeks x 40 hours = 960 hours

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Barbados Community College-Division of Health SciencesAssociate Degree in Applied Science

Medical Laboratory Technology Program, 1991Year 1Subject Credits Subject CreditsTerm 1 Term 2Orientation to MLT 1 Anatomy & Physiology 2Urinalysis 2 Chemistry 2 3Anatomy & Physiology 2 Physics 1 2Chemistry 1 3 Computer Awareness 2Laboratory Maths 2 English & Communication 2 2Medical Terminology 2English & Communication 2Term 3Physics 2 2Clinical Bacteriology 1 (Theory) 3Clinical Bacteriology 1 (Practice) 1Biochemistry 2Caribbean Politics 2Year 2Subject Credits Subject CreditsTerm 1 Term 2Clinical Chemistry 1 (Theory) 3 Clinical Chemistry 2 (Theory) 3Clinical Chemistry 1 (Practice) 1 Clinical Chemistry 2 (Practice) 1Clinical Bacteriology 2 (Theory) 3 Immunology 1.5Clinical Bacteriology 2 (Practice) 1 Hematology 1 (Theory) 3Instrumentation 2 Hematology 1 (Practice) 1Histopathology 1 (Theory) 2 Histopathology 2 (Theory) 3Histopathology 1 (Practice) 2 Histopathology 2 (Practice) 1

Term 3Subject Credits Subject CreditsParasitology (Theory) 3Parasitology (Practice) 1Hematology 2 (Theory) 3Hematology 2 (Practice) 1Clinical Chemistry 3 (Theory) 3Clinical Chemistry 3 (Practice) 1Histopathology 3 (Theory) 1Histopathology 3 (Practice) 1Summer PracticumMicrobiology 40 hoursChemical Pathology 40 hoursHistopathology 40 hoursBlood Banking 40 hoursHematology 40 hours

Term 1 Term 2Immunohematology 1 (Theory) 3 Immunohematology 2 (Theory) 3Immunohematology 1 (Practice) 1 Immunohematology 2 (Practice) 1Mycology (Theory) 1 Coagulation Studies (Theory) 3Mycology (Practice) 1 Coagulation Studies (Practice) 3Bio-Statistics 2 Sociology 2Ethics & Citizenship 2 Speech & Communication 2Term 3Research Methods 2Management 3Clinical Experience 4

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Diploma and FellowshipCaribbean Association of Medical Technologists

Before 1990, guidelines were set by the Association for the content to be tested in each specialty. The training was on-the job and there were no structured courses. The student was responsible for obtaining the necessary information for the CASMET examinations. Since 1991, students can complete the Fellowship by examination.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Barbados Community CollegeDivision of Health SciencesHowell’s Cross Road, St. Michael, Barbados

Caribbean Association of Medical TechnologistsDepartment of Pathology, University HospitalUniversity of the West Indies, MonaKingston 7, Jamaica


(a) Accreditation - All programs are under the control of the Ministry of Education and Culture

(b) Certification - Barbados Community College Certification examination

(c) Licensure - None

(d) Professional Association - The professional association for Medical Laboratory Technologists in Barbados is:

Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists (CASMET) (Prior to 1979 this Association was called the Society of Medical Technologists) Department of Pathology, University Hospital University of the West Indies Mona, Jamaica

9. EQUIVALENCY/RECIPROCITY

In Barbados qualifications of foreign trained laboratorians are evaluated by the Ministry of Education and Paramedical Professions Council, and the following U.K. qualifications are recognized:(a) Associateship in the Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences.(b) Higher National Diploma/Higher National Certificate in Medical Laboratory Specialties.(c) Fellowship of I.M.L.S.For CASMET: Foreign graduates are evaluated by the Qualifications Evaluation Committee (QEC) of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists. The QEC, which was established in l985 and consists of four members, makes recommendations to the Regional Council of the CASMET, which must ratify the recommendations for them to be valid.

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CANADA1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE

Prior to 1999(a)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 High School DiplomaPrimary Secondary

DiplomaCollege or Institute of Technology 1 2 3* Medical Laboratory

Technologist

DiplomaCollege or Institute of Technology 1 2* Medical Laboratory

Technologist (RT)

(b) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 High School Diploma

Primary Secondary

College or Institute of Technology 1 2* Diploma Medical LaboratoryTechnologist (RT)

University 1 2 1/2 B.Sc. in **Medical LaboratoryScience

(c) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 High School Diploma

Primary Secondary

University 1 2 3* RT and 4 B.Sc. in Medical

LaboratoryScience

Note: (a) and (b) are the most common educational patterns* Clinical Training Year** Since 1997 the 1/2-year in plan b has been eliminated. The degree completion program at the university now requires only 2 years

after the Diploma program.


Because education is under provincial jurisdiction, educational systems in the different provinces vary significantly. There are two levels of high school diploma and this generally determines the length of medical laboratory technology training. Unfortunately, the number of years of schooling does not completely coincide with the level of high school diploma. In some provinces a senior diploma may take 12 years or 13 years; in other provinces only the lower level high school diploma is available, with the post-secondary system filling the gap.

Because of these differences in provincial educational systems, the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) [until 1997, the Canadian Society of Laboratory Technologists (CSLS)], has concentrated on ensuring that students graduating from programs have reached an equivalent level and have a similar body of knowledge and skills in medical laboratory science and technology.

Medical laboratory technology programs are generally offered at community colleges or institutes of technology. Programs are two or three years in length, depending on entry prerequisites. In three-year programs the first year focuses on core sciences and introductory studies. The second year (and the first year of two-year programs) is a concentrated year of didactic medical laboratory studies, 900

18 19

- 1200 hours in length, including both lectures and supervised laboratory exercises. The final year is spent in an accredited clinical laboratory and consists of 1600 - 1800 hours of supervised clinical training. The educational institution gives a diploma and the graduate is eligible to write national certification examinations.

A number of universities offer degree-completion programs in medical laboratory science in which credit is given for the diploma program. Several universities offer a four-year degree, which leads to eligibility after the third year, and a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science after the fourth year. Additional post-RT degree programs are developing in response to the CSMLS requirement for a degree at the advanced (ART) level. In 1996 new regulations required a baccalaureate degree in medical laboratory science plus acceptable work experience for a candidate to qualify for advanced certification

3. LEVELS AND LENGTH OF STUDY

Canada’s only certifying agency, the Canadian Society of Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) oversees the curriculum and eligibility for certification. Before 1994, certification was via a three-tiered system comprised of registered technologists, and advanced registered technologists (ART), and Fellow of the CSLT (FCSLT). Since 1994, it has been a two-tiered system.

Prior 1994Initial certification (RT = registered technologist)Senior-level high school diploma students entered a 2-year MLT program, while junior-level diploma holders were eligible to enter the 3-year programs.

Advanced certification (ART = advanced registered technologist)Advanced certificates required independent study in accordance with established of study, and a minimum period of work experience. The eligibility requirements for ART examination were:

Applicants for ART examinations had to be certified at the Initial level (RT general/subject) and had to be members in good standing of the CSLT. Candidates had to be working in the discipline in which they sought certification, or must h a v e been working in that discipline within one year of the exam application deadline. Eligibility was achieved by obtaining 30 credits as follows:

Post-RT work experience credits Minimum Maximum 6 credits per year of acceptable work experience (within the last four years) 12 21

Literature review credits 3 credits are granted for an acceptable literature review 3 9

Continuing education credits For post-RT educational activities (within the last four years) variable variable

The first step was to submit a “Notice of Intention” form to the CSLT, to have the literature review topic approved. The literature review was then prepared and submitted for assessment. The second step was to submit an “Application for Credit Review”, with supporting documentation for all credits claimed. Finally, candidates who had accumulated the required 30 credits received the exam application form.

ART was obtained in a single discipline, although a general ART was also available. It was possible to take a second ART. Preparation for ART was not supervised. The candidate directed his/her own study based on the syllabus provided by the CSLT. Up to 10% of the examination could have been based on current issues not included in the syllabus. The ART certification was a 1-hour written and oral exam given by two senior people appointed by the CSLT. Because many candidates had difficulty with self-directed learning changes were initiated in degree requirements.

Fellowship (FCSLT)

The FCSLT (Fellowship of the CSLT) was established in 1982 as the highest level in the CSLT certification system. This required the candidate to complete an independent research study and submit a thesis. This certification was suspended in 1992 because of lack of participation.

Since 1994:

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1) Initial certification (RT = registered technologist) Examinations for RT certification are taken after completion of the diploma program.

2) Advanced certification (ART = advanced registered technologist) Under new regulations instituted in May 1996, Advanced certification requires a baccalaureate degree in medical laboratory science plus acceptable work experience. Candidates with other relevant science degrees will qualify provided that they have taken additional courses in clinical laboratory science.


A high school diploma is the entry prerequisite for medical laboratory technology programs, with credits in mathematics, chemistry, one other science, and either English or French. For programs that require a senior level diploma, first year college or university credits may be alternative prerequisites.


General training in medical laboratory technology is polyvalent and incorporates:

Clinical Chemistry Clinical Microbiology Hematology Histotechnology Immunohematology

There are separate specialized training programs for cytotechnology and clinical genetics technology.

Before regulation changes in 1996, graduates from the formal educational programs wrote national certification examinations conducted by the CSLT. The RT examination in general medical laboratory technology included the five disciplines listed above. In addition, certification was offered in individual disciplines:

Clinical Chemistry Cytogenetics Clinical Microbiology Diagnostic Cytology Hematology Electron Microscopy Histotechnology Immunology Immunohematology Virology

Since 1996 graduates from the formal educational programs write national certification examinations. The RT examination in general medical laboratory technology includes the five disciplines listed above.

6. CURRICULUM

Prior to 1996The Canadian Society for Laboratory Technologists, the national certifying body, produced a Competency Profile for both the general certificate and each of the individual disciplines listed in Section 5, above. These profiles provided a basis for educational institutions to develop their program objectives. The following is an outline of the various sections of the general certificate syllabus:

PART 1 TECHNIQUES AND INSTRUMENTATION

I. Techniques II. Instruments and Equipment

PART 2 CELL BIOLOGY I. The Cell II. General Genetics & Molecular Biology

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III. Anatomy IV. Physiology V. Immunology VI. Basic Pathology

PART 3 LABORATORY INVESTIGATION OF DISEASE

I. Clinical Chemistry II. Clinical Microbiology III. Hematology IV. Histological Techniques V. Immunohematology

PART 4 QUALITY ASSURANCE

I. Quality Assurance Concepts/Procedures II. Communication Skills III. Materials Management IV. Preventive Maintenance V. Laboratory Mathematics, Statistics and Quality Control VI. Legal Obligations and Professional Ethics VII. Problem Solving

PART 5 INFORMATION MANAGEMENT

I. Computers II. Requisitioning and Reporting III. Laboratory Management

(The CSLT Competency Profiles provided additional information about each of the certifications.)

Prerequisite knowledge for students of Medical Laboratory Technology which were not covered in the CSLT Examinations included: Fundamental Concepts of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Introductory Organic Chemistry, Basic Physics, Hydrogen Ion Activity, Titrations, Acid-Base and Redox Reactions. Courses in these prerequisites might be included in the program.

Parts 1, 2, 4 and 5 of the above syllabus covered the core knowledge that was common to all areas of the laboratory. Part 3 contained all of the clinical discipline material. The RT subject syllabuses were structured in a similar format.

(A) The 3-year General Certificate ProgramDiploma in Technology (Dipl. T.); Cabot Institute, Newfoundland, (1990-1992)

Sample curriculum

FIRST YEAR Hours per Week First Semester Lecture Laboratory CreditsCommunications 3 0 3 Mathematics 3 2 4 Physics 3 3 4 Chemistry 3 3 4 Biology 3 3 4 Psychology 2 0 2 Total 17 11 21

Second Semester Communications 3 0 3 Statistics 3 2 4 Physics 3 3 4

20 21

Chemistry 3 3 4 Biology 3 3 4 Psychology 2 0 2 Total 17 11 21

SECOND YEAR Hours per Week Third Semester Lecture Laboratory Credits Organic Chemistry/Biochemistry 4 0 4 Histology 3 4 4 Laboratory Instrumentation 2 2 3 Clinical Microbiology 3 4 4 Hematology 3 4 4 Immunology 2 0 2 Total 17 14 21

Fourth Semester Clinical Microbiology 3 4 4 Clinical Chemistry 4 2 5 Introduction to Computers 2 2 3 Hematology 1 2 2 Immunohematology 3 2 4 Total 13 12 18

THIRD YEAR

The third year of the program was designed to train the student in the practical aspects of the Medical Laboratory Sciences program and discipline the student to the routine working atmosphere of the laboratory, to introduce the student to the hospital environment and provide opportunity for contact with patients and medical staff. Although examinations and lectures were given, the emphasis was on practical work in each discipline.

Fifth Semester (May - August) Weeks CreditsClinical Chemistry 3 3 Hematology 3 3 Histology 2 2 Immunohematology 2 2 Clinical Microbiology 2 2 Total 12 12

Sixth Semester (September - December) Clinical Chemistry 3 pass/failHematology 3 pass/failHistology 3 pass/failImmunohematology 3 pass/failClinical Microbiology 3 pass/fail Total 15

Seventh Semester (January - June) Clinical Chemistry 6 6 Hematology 5 5 Histology 2 2 Immunohematology 3 3 Clinical Microbiology 5 5 Total 21 21

Credit SystemEach course was assigned a Credit Value. A Semester Credit Hour was assigned to a course in proportion to the number of hours spent in lectures and laboratories as follows: One lecture hour per week = 1 Credit One laboratory period (2-4 hours) per week = 1 Credit

22 23

One laboratory period (5-7 hours) per week = 2 Credits One laboratory period (8-10 hours) per week = 3 Credits

Grade Point Marking SystemThe percentage mark in a course was converted to a Grade Point, according to the following table: 80% and over 4 70% - 75% 3 60% - 65% 2 50% - 55% 1 Below 50% 0

Qualifications for DiplomaTo qualify for a Diploma, the student had to:

(1) Obtain a mark of not less than 50% in each course, i.e. have no Grade Point below 1;

(2) Attain a minimum Grade Point Average of 2. The Grade Point Average was calculated by multiplying the Credit Value of each program by the Grade Point received in that course. The product was then divided by the total number of Credits attempted in the program.

(3) Successfully complete the Occupational Health and Safety Course, including qualifying for the St. John Ambulance Certificate in First Aid.

In internship periods, which did not have credit values assigned, 75% of the requiredinternship period had to be completed under the supervision of the institute.

(B) The 4-year B.Sc. Medical Laboratory Sciences programFaculty of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, (1990-1991)

Sample curriculum

FIRST YEAR First Term Second Term Hours per week Hours per week Lecture Seminar Lab Lecture Seminar LabChemistry 3 1 3 3 1 3Organic Chemistry 3 0 3 3 0 3Heredity 3 0 3 - - -Elementary Physiology 3 0 1 3 0 1General Microbiology I - - - 3 0 3Introduction to Lab. Medicine - - - 3 0 3Humanities option 3 0 0 or 3 0 0 Total 15 1 10 18 1 13

SECOND YEAR Pathogenic Bacteriology 3 0 3 3 0 3Hematology 3 0 6 3 0 6Clinical Biochemistry 3 0 3 3 0 3Introduction to Histopathology 3 0 3 - - -An approved Science option* - - - 3 0 3Humanities option 3 0 0 3 0 0 Total 15 0 15 15 0 15

THIRD YEAR General Biochemistry 3 0 0 3 0 0Medical Laboratory Science I - - - - - -(= Hospital Practice): A twelve-month period of practical hospital laboratory training under the direct supervision of the Faculty of Medicine. Students received some remuneration from the University of Alberta Hospitals during this year. At the end of this year, they were eligible to take the initial certification examinations of the CSLT.

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FOURTH YEAR Medical Laboratory Science II 3 0 6 3 0 6Special Project - - - 0 0 3An approved MLS option 3 0 3 3 0 3An approved Science option* 3 0 0 3 0 0An approved option 3 0 0 or 3 0 0An approved Humanities option 3 0 0 3 0 0 Total 15 0 9 15 0 12• A list of approved Science options was made available to students prior to registration.

Since 1996The CSMLS (previously the CSLT) the national certifying body, produces a competency profile for both the general certificate and each of the individual disciplines: Clinical Chemistry, Clinical Microbiology, Hematology, Histotechnology, Immunohematology These profiles provide a basis for educational institutions to develop their program objectives. The Competencies Expected of An Entry-Level medical Laboratory Technologist, August 1996 edition, Reissued May 1998, may be obtained from the http://: www.csmls.org/pdf/gencompf.pdf

B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory ScienceUniversity of Alberta 2000-2001

YEAR 1Course Lecture Seminar LabEnglish 6 0 0Organic Chemistry 3 0 3Intro Chemistry 3 1 3Intro. To Cell Biology 3 0 33 electives from:

(9) Biology Genetics Microbiology or ZoologyInto to Statistics 3 0 0Options from any Faculty (6)YEAR 2Physiology 6Hematology 3 0 6Hemostasis 3 0 0Human Histology & Human Histotechnology 3 0 4Clinical Biochemistry 1 3 0 3Clinical Biochemistry 2 3 0 3Transfusion Science 3 0 0Transfusion Medicine 3 0 6Art Option 3YEAR 3Intro. To Biochemistry 1 3 0 0Intro to Biochemistry 2 3 0 0Analysis & Communication of Biomedical Information

1 0 2

Clinical Hematology 2 term clinical rotationClinical Microbiology 2 term clinical rotationClinical Biochemistry 2 term clinical rotationHistopathology 2 term clinical rotationTransfusion Science 2 term clinical rotationYEAR 4Med. Lab. Electives (Advanced Hematology, Clinical Bio. Chem., Applied Toxicology, Clinical Immunology, Techniques in Molecular Biology, or Fungi in the Human Environment, or Mechanisms of Pathogenicity 1 or 2)

(12)

Molecular Genetic Approaches to the study & Diagnosis of Disease

3 0 0

Interdisciplinary Health Team Development 4 0 0Project Course 6Arts Option 3Approved Option 3

LIST OF PROGRAMS (As of 2000)

(a) Medical Laboratory Technology - General certificate programs

PROGRAMS OFFERED IN ENGLISH

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College of the North Atlantic Red River Community College (Formerly, Cabot Institute of Applied 2055 Notre DameArts and Technology) Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3H 0J9P.O. Box 1693 (program suspended until Fall 2001)St. John’s, Newfoundland A1C 5P7 Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (SIAST)New Brunswick Community College Kelsey Institute,P.O. Box 2270 Idylwyld & 33rd streetsSaint John, New Brunswick P.O. Box 1520,E2L 3V1 Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7K 5R5(accepts students in alternate years)Dawson College 3040 Sherbrooke West Northern Alberta Institute ofMontreal, Quebec TechnologyH3Z 1A4 11762 - 106 Street Edmonton, Alberta T5G 2R1

St. Clair College Southern Alberta Institute of Tech.2000 Talbot Road West 1301 - 16th Ave.Windsor, Ontario Calgary AlbertaN9A 6S4 T2M 0L4 (reopening Fall 2000) Lawrence College University of Alberta King Street & Portsmouth Ave B-117 Clinical Sciences BuildingKingston, Ontario Edmonton AlbertaK7L 5A6 T6E 2G3

The Michener Institute for Applied British Columbia Institute of Health Sciences Technology222 St. Patrick Street Burnaby, British ColumbiaToronto, Ontario M5T 1V4 V5F 3H2

PROGRAMS OFFERED IN FRENCH

Cégep de Chicoutimi Cégep de Rosemont534 Jacques-Cartier est 6400 - 16ième AvenueChicoutimi, Québec Montréal, QuébecG7H 1Z6 H1X 2S9

Cégep de Rimouski Cégep de Ste-Foy60 ouest rue Évêché 2410, Chemin Ste-FoyRimouski, Québec Québec, QuébecG5L 4H6 G1V 1T3

Cégep de St-Jean-sur-Richelieu Cégep de Sherbrooke30, boul. du Séminaire 475 ParcSt-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Québec Sherbrooke, QuébecJ3B 7B1 J1H 5M7

Cégep de Saint-Jerôme Collège Régional Bourgchemin455, rue Fournier Campus de Saint-HyacintheSaint Jérôme, Québec 3000, rue Boullé, CP 9000J7Z 4V2 Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 7C7

(b) Cytotechnology Programs

PROGRAMS OFFERED IN ENGLISH

College of the North Atlantic (formerly: Pasqua Hospital

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Cabot Inst. of Applied Arts & Tech) 4101 Dewdney AvenueP.O. Box 1693 Regina, SaskatchewanSt. John’s, Newfoundland, A1C 5P7 S4T 1A5(program temporarily closed)

The Victoria General North Alberta Institute of Hospital Technology1278 Tower Road 11762-106 StreetHalifax, Nova Scotia Edmonton, AlbertaB3H 2Y9 T5G 2R1

The Michener Institute for Applied Cancer Control Agency of British Health Sciences Columbia222 St. Patrick Street 600 West 10th AvenueToronto, Ontario Vancouver, British ColumbiaM5V 1T4 V5Z 4E6

Health Sciences Centre/Red River Community College700 William AvenueWinnipeg, ManitobaR3E 0Z3

PROGRAMS OFFERED IN FRENCH

Cégep de Rosemont/Hôpital Cégep de Ste-Foy/Hôpital du Hôtel-Dieu de Montréal Saint-Sacrement6400, 16e Avenue 2410 Chemin Ste-FoyMontréal, Québec Québec, QuébecH1X 2S9 G1V 1T3

(c) Clinical Genetics technology programs

British Columbia Institute of The Michener Institute for Technology Applied Health Sciences3700 Willingdon Avenue 222 St. Patrick StreetBurnaby, British Columbia Toronto, OntarioV5F 3H2 M5V 1T4

(d) Baccalaureate degree programs in medical laboratory science University of British Columbia Medical Laboratory Science2211 Wesbrook Mall Office of the Dean of ScienceVancouver, British Columbia University of New BrunswickV6T 2B5 PO Box 4400 Fredericton NB E3B 5A3

University of Alberta* Office of the Dean of Science B-117 Clinical Sciences Building University of WindsorEdmonton, Alberta 401 Sunset Ave.T6G 2G3 Windsor ON N9B 3P4* = Full four-year program.

Athabasca University Fisheries & Marine Institute(Tel: Dr. Lisa Carter, Memorial University of toll free No. America Wide Newfoundland 1-800-788-9041 Ext 6281 P.O. Box 4920Fax: (580) 675 6145 St. John’s NF A1C 5R3e-mail: [email protected]

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(a) Program Accreditation - Program accreditation is by the Conjoint Committee on Accreditation of Educational programs in Medical Laboratory Technology. This committee has representation from each of the professional associations of laboratory physicians, scientists and technologists, plus representatives from the Canadian Hospital Association and the Association of Canadian Community Colleges. The Secretariat is sponsored by the Canadian Medical Association.

(b) Certification, Registration or Licensure Certification is by The Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science

Registration or licensure exists in Quebec, New Brunswick, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario. Other provinces are at different stages of developing legislation to regulate the practice of the profession.

(c) Professional Association - The national professional association is:

The Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (Société Canadienne des technologistes de laboratoire) P.O.Box. 2830, LCD 1 Hamilton, Ontario L8N 3N8 Tel: (905) 528-8642 Fax: (905) 528-4968 www.csmls.org


There is no direct reciprocity between Canada and any other country. Technologists who were trained outside Canada may apply to the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science to have their training and work experience evaluated for equivalency. Those who meet the requirements must write the CSMLS examinations in order to obtain certification.

For further information please contact the Canadian Society directly atwww.csmls.org

[email protected]

http://www.csmls.org

mailto:[email protected]

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CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINEPrior to 1986:

Brevet élémentaire du premier cycle (BEPC)1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 Baccalauréat

Faculty of Health Sciences 1 2 3 4 Technicien supérieurUniversity of Bangui de santé

(Higher Health Technician)

Faculty of Health Sciences 1 2* 3 Diplôme d’EtatUniversity of Bangui de Technicien

de Laboratoire

After 1986:Brevet élémentaire du premier cycle (BEPC)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 BaccalauréatPrimary School

Diplôme d’Etat de Technicien

Faculty of Health Sciences 1 2* 3 4** Supérieur deUniversity of Bangui Laboratoire Bio-Médical

* = Practical Training (“Stages”) at the various laboratories for a total period of 10 months.** = Practical Training at the National Laboratory


The need for training of medical laboratorians in the Central African Republic became evident early in this century as laboratory assistants started to be trained by doctors and scientific officers to perform increasingly more important work of scientific analysis; however, the training remained on-the-job, until recently.

In 1981 the work of laboratory technicians was formalized at the Faculty of Health Sciences, the University of Bangui. Laboratory technicians (Techniciens de Laboratoire) were trained in a 3-year program at the Faculty, with admission after grade 10 or the BEPC. The program consisted of approximately 30 hours per week: 10 hours of theoretical course work and 20 hours of practice. Practical work experience (“stage”) was organized at hospital laboratories. On completion of the program, graduates were awarded a State Diploma (Diplôme d’Etat). In 1985, a fourth year of practical work in the National Laboratory was added, and the title changed to Technicien Supérieur de Laboratoire Bio-Médical.In the past, the University of Bangui also offered a 4-year course of study for Higher Health Technicians (Technicien Supérieur de Santé), which required completion of secondary school, or the baccalauréat examination (which was not

28 29

mandatory) for entry. Higher Health Technicians did not study medical laboratory science, and their program was quite different from that of Laboratory Technicians.


Prior to 1986:Technicien de Laboratoire (Laboratory Technician): 3-year program at the Faculty of Health Sciences (Faculté des Sciences de la Santé = FACSS), University of Bangui, leading to the Diplôme d’Etat (State Diploma). Admission was granted after grade 10.

After 1986:Technicien Supérieur de Laboratoire Bio-Médical (Higher Laboratory Technician): This is a 4-year program at the FACSS, also leading to the State Diploma. The first 3 years consist of both theory and practice. The fourth year is devoted to practical work at the National Laboratory.


Diplôme d’Etat (Technicien Supérieur de Laboratoire Bio-Médical):

Entry into the program requires the baccalauréat or equivalent.


Education for Higher Laboratory Technicians in the Central African Republic is polyvalent and includes blood banking, clinical chemistry (including urinalysis), hematology, histopathology (histotechnology), microbiology and parasitology.

Medical higher laboratory technicians work at regional or national hospital centers (Centres hospitaliers). At the regional levels, higher laboratory technicians are able to participate in the organization and control of the laboratory. Higher laboratory technicians should be capable of performing all standard laboratory tests, making decisions for the verification and communication of these results in the required format, and taking initiative for complementary research as needed. Their superiors are medical and scientific personnel, and higher health technicians (Techniciens supérieur de santé).

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6. CURRICULUM

Higher Laboratory Technician (Technicien Supérieur de Laboratoire Bio-Médical)(State Diploma)

Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bangui*

YEAR 1* Subject Theory Hours Practicals HoursMathematics 60 --French 30 --General Chemistry 40 --Organic Chemistry 40 20Metabolic Biochemistry 60 --Electrochemistry 20 20Inorganic Chemistry 40 --Biophysics 20 --Physics 30 --Hematology 60 40Bacteriology 60 40Parasitology 60 40Professional ethics 15 --Nursing Care 25 --Organization of Public Health 20 -- Total 580 140 * In 1985 modifications to the program of studies were made and Courses were broadened to include Cellular Biology and Anatomy & Physiology in year 1.

YEAR 2

(1) Practicals (“Stages”): (Morning classes; at Laboratories & at Monday/ Friday Clinics) Laboratory Hrs/Day “Stage” Duration Hrs/ “Stage”Clinical Biochemistry 4 2 months 160Hematology & Hemostasis 4 11⁄2 months 120Serology 4 1 month 80Bacteriology 4 11⁄2 months 120Parasitology 4 11⁄2 months 120Blood Transfusion & Blood Banking 4 11⁄2 months 120Histo-cytology 4 1 month 80 Total 10 months 800 hours

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(2) Theory Courses: (Afternoon classes) Subject Hours Metabolic Biochemistry (continuing from Year 1) 40Mathematics (continuing from Year 1) 10Hematology and Immunology 40Histology and Cytology(laboratory techniques) 20Serology (lecture & practicals) 30Bacteriology (lecture & practicals) 30Parasitology (lecture & practicals) 45Virology (theory) 15Entomology (theory) 30Epidemiology 30French (teaching skills) 10 Total 300 hours

YEAR 3

Devoted to researching an original paper presented at the end of the university year and required for obtaining the final Diploma of “Technicien Supérieur de Laboratoire Bio-Médical”.

Each student chooses one of the subjects under Biological or Biochemical Analysis, proposed by the professors.

This work starts usually at the beginning of the year and lasts until the end of the academic year, during the mornings. Between 1981 and 1984 the thesis defense took place at the end of the third year..

In 1985 two new courses were added: Semiology (Symptomatology) 30 hours, and Research Methodology, 20 hours.

YEAR 4 (after 1985)

In 1985 modifications to the program of studies were made and the fourth year of studies was put in place to assure emergency service at the Laboratories of Biological Analysis & Biochemistry and the Center for Blood Transfusion. Preparation of original work is now presented at the end of the fourth year

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Faculté de Sciences de la Santé (Faculty of Health Sciences)FACSSUniversité de BanguiB.P. 1383, Bangui


(a) Accreditation - Accreditation of the program is by the Ministry of Higher Education and the Ministry of Public Health and Population.

Ministére de la Santé Publique et de la Population Boite Postale 883 Barqui - République Centrafricaine FAX: 236-61-17-09

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(b) Certification - Yes. Higher Laboratory Technicians receive a State Diploma.

(c) Licensure - None

(d) Professional Association - Association Nationale de Biotechnologistes


Applicants with the same educational background are considered as technicians. Degrees and Diplomas that are recognized are BTS Laboratoire Médical, Diplôme de Technicien Supérieur, Diplôme de Biologiste Médicale, Diplôme d’Ingenieur en Biologie Médical.

For further information please contact the Association directly at:

Head of the Department of Formation of TSL/AAB.P. 1383 (FACSS)

University of Bangui Bangui

Tel: 61 43 44/ 61 12 25/ 61 30 70

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CHILE

1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINESecondary School Certificate(Licencia de Educación Media)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12primary school second. school

( enseñ anza media)

University 1 2 3 4 5 Degree in Medical TechnologyTitulo de Tecnólogo Médico/Licentiate

Secondary school 6 months Certificate of Laboratory Assistant(Auxiliar de Laboratorio)


The first program for medical laboratory science education in Chile began in 1949, when the School for Hospital Technique and Management was established. In 1951, the first group of twelve medical laboratory technicians (técnicos laborante) received their qualification after 3 years of study. In 1955, the name of the school was changed to Medical Technology (Tecnología Médica), and in 1960 the school was incorporated into the University of Chile’s Faculty of Medicine. Medical technology had been exclusively a women’s career, but in 1960 men were first admitted into the program. In 1969, the program was extended from 3 to 4 years in length, and in 1995 it was extended to 5 years.

To enter a medical technology program, students must have completed 12 years of schooling (8 years primary, 4 years secondary) and must sit for the national university entrance examination, (Prueba de Aptitud Académica), which is required by all Chilean universities. A separate examination in the natural sciences also is required.

Training for the current professional title of “Tecnólogo Médico”, or Medical Technologist, takes place at one of six universities (see: Section 7, List of Programs). The first 4 semesters of the 5-year program consist of general training, followed by 6 semesters of specialization in one of the following areas:

(1) Clinical laboratory, which includes clinical chemistry microbiology, blood banking and hematology(2) Radiology and medical physics (3) Morphopathophysiology and cytodiagnosis(4) Ophthalmology (5) Otorhinolaryngology

The school year in Chile runs from March to December and is divided into two semesters.In addition to the 5-year, university-level training, there is a 6-month training course for laboratory assistants (Auxiliar de laboratorio), which is a program under the responsibility of the Ministry of Health. The only private institution offering this program is Caritas Chile. This course is open to students who have completed a least 2 years of secondary schooling (10 years total)

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.3. LEVELS AND LENGTH OF STUDY

Programs are available at two levels:(1) Laboratory Assistant: 6 month training course at the secondary school level.(2) Medical Technologist: 5 years of training at the university level.4. ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

(1) For the 6-month training course for laboratory assistant, the entry requirement is: completion of at least 2 years of secondary schooling or a total of ten years of basic education.(2) Students who wish to enter a university medical technology program must have: - completed secondary schooling (enseñanza media) and received the Licencia de Educación Media (Secondary school certificate); - passed the national entrance examination (Prueba de Aptitud Académica); and - passed the national test of specific knowledge (Prueba de Conocimientos Específicos) in biology and chemistry.


In Chile, medical laboratory technology education is polyvalent and includes clinical chemistry (clinical bioanalysis), blood banking, hematology, bacteriology and parasitology. As late as 1975, the education of technologists in hematology (including blood banking) was a separate speciality. The clinical laboratory specialization, which previously included clinical bioanalysis and microbiology, now also includes hematology and blood banking.

Medical technologists in Chile practice at public, private and semi-public institutions, with approximately 40% at public institutions. Professionals, other than medical technologists, working at clinical laboratories include physicians, pharmacists, biochemists and auxiliary laboratory staff. Medical technologists may practice only in the area of their specialization(s).

Aside from the functions of that specialization, medical technologists execute and supervise routine work assisted by auxiliary staff, and may participate either as author or collaborator in research, leading to the development and establishment of new techniques.

Opportunities for further education and professional development are offered by the professional association (Colegio de Tecnólogos Medicos de Chile A.G., Santiago). Other post-graduate training may be obtained in on-the-job training, in the universities or abroad. Professionals also have opportunity to continue education toward masters and doctoral degrees; graduates have entered masters level programs in the Faculties of Medicine at the University of Chile (Santiago City), the University of Concepción (Concepción City) and the University Austral (Valdivia City).

6. CURRICULUM

Medical Laboratory Assistant(l986)

The program for medical auxiliaries lasts 6 months with focus on radiology, radiotherapy and laboratory. The program requires a total of 350 hours of instruction as follows:

Course Academic work Practical workOrganization, function andsecurity norms of the service 17 hours ]Management of equipment and patient care ]in radiology and radiotherapy 55 hours ]Management of equipment and patient care ] 189 hoursin clinical laboratory and hematology 51 hours ]Management of equipment, patient care ]and simple analysis in blood banking 38 hours ] TOTAL 161 hours 189 hours

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Medical Technologist

The program which leads to the professional title of Tecnólogo Médico requires a total of 5 years or 10 semesters. Each semester is 19 weeks long, with 28-30 contact hours per week. The first 4 semesters consist of basic instruction in the following areas:

(1) Anatomy (2) Biology(3) Mathematics (4) General Chemistry(5) Organic Chemistry (6) Biostatistics(7) Histology and Embryology (8) Genetics(9) Physics (10) Physiology(11) Research Methodology (12) Biochemistry(13) Microbiology (14) Parasitology(15) Bioethics (16) Pathophysiology(17) Basic Pharmacology (18) Immunology

The last 6 semesters consist of training in one of five technical specializations:1. Clinical Laboratory, Blood Banking and Hematology2. Radiography and Medical Physics3. Morphopathophysiology and Cytodiagnosis4. Ophthalmology5. Otorhinolaryngology

SAMPLE CURRICULAMedical Technology Program

Prepared and used by the Faculty of Medicne, University of Chile through 1994(As provided by Colegio de Tecnólogos Medicos de Chile in 1986)

COMMON CYCLE:First semester Total hours Theory Lab. per week per semesterAnatomy 3 3 6 114Biology 4 5 9 171Mathematics I 3 3 6 114General Chemistry 2 3 5 95General training 1 2 3 57English, Computation, Demography TOTAL 13 16 29 551Second semester Biostatistics 3 1 4 76Histology 2 4 6 114Mathematics II 3 3 6 114Organic Chemistry 2 3 5 95Fundamentals of Nursing 1 3 4 76Physics 3 3 6 114General training 2 1 3 57 TOTAL 16 18 34 646

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Third Semester Pathophysiology 4 2 6 114Methods of Research 2 2 4 76Biochemistry 4 2 6 114Microbiology I 1 3 4 76Parasitology I 1 2 3 57General training 2 1 3 57Psychology 2 1 3 57Professional Orientation 3 3 6 114 TOTAL 19 16 35 665

SPECIALIZATION:

CLINICAL LABORATORY (CLINICAL CHEMISTRY, MICROBIOLOGY, BLOOD BANKING AND HEMATOLOGY):

Fourth Semester

Total hours Theory Lab. per week per semesterPathophysiology 4 5 9 171Public Health 2 2 4 76Management 1 2 3 57Applied Biochemistry 2 18 20 380 TOTAL 9 27 36 684

Fifth Semester Clinical Bioanalysis 4 14 18 342Hematology I 2 16 18 342 TOTAL 6 30 36 684

Sixth Semester Hematology II 3 14 17 323Microbiology II 3 17 20 380 TOTAL 6 31 37 703

Seventh Semester Parasitology II 2 5 7 133Blood Banking 6 24 30 570 TOTAL 8 29 37 703

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Eighth Semester - Practical Internship

Hematology 4 weeks 160 hours per semesterBacteriology 4 weeks 160 hours per semesterClinical Bioanalysis 4 weeks 160 hours per semesterBlood Banking 4 weeks 160 hours per semesterParasitology 2 weeks 80 hours per semesterElective 2 weeks 80 hours per semester TOTAL 20 weeks 800 hours

Medical Technology ProgramFaculty of Medicine, University of Chile, 1995

COMMON CYCLE:First Semester Hours per Semester Anatomy 95Biology 114Mathematics I 76General Chemistry 114Elective Course (1) 38Bioethics of Health & Science 40 Total 477 Second Semester Hours per Semester Histology and Embryology 114Organic Chemistry 95Mathematics II 76Genetic 76Physics I 95Bioethics of Health & Science 57Elective Course (1) 38 Total 551

Third Semester Hours per Semester Physiology 114Biochemistry 95Microbiology I 76Parasitology I 57Fundamentals of Nursing 57Physic II 57Biostatistics 57Elective Course (1) 38 Total 551 (1) = Poetry, Swimming or Human Sexuality.

Fourth Semester Hours per Semester Pathophysiology 133Basic Pharmacology 57Immunology 57Biochemistry II 342 Total 589

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SPECIALIZATION:

CLINICAL LABORATORY (CLINICAL CHEMISTRY, MICROBIOLOGY, BLOOD BANKING AND HEMATOLOGY):

Fifth Semster Hours per Semester Clinical Bioanalysis 380Parasitology II 133Biosafety 38Seminar in Biotechnology 38 Total 589

Sixth Semester Hours per Semester Microbiology II 475Epidemiology and Public Health 76Applied Informatics 57 Total 608

Seventh Semester Hours per Semester Hematology 532Management 57Methods of Research 57 Total 646

Eighth Semester Hours per Semester Immunohematology and Blood Banking 532Medical Photography 57Professional Ethics 38 Total 627

Ninth Semester Hours per Semester Molecular Biology Seminar 57Licenciate Thesis 532 Total 589

Tenth Semester Hours per Semester Hospital Management 57Practical Internship in: 760 Hematology Bacteriology Clinical Bioanalysis Blood Banking Parasitology Total 817

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7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

The following Universities offer programs leading to the degree of “Tecnólogo Médico”:

1) Universidad de Tarapaca, Gen. Velasquez 1775, Casilla 7-D, Arica.2) Universidad de Antofagasta, Avda Angamos 601, Casilla 170, Antofagasta.3) Universidad de Talca, 2 Norte 685, Casilla 22, Talca.4) Universidad de la Frontera, Avda Francisco Salazar 01145, Casilla 54-D, Temuco.5) Universidad Austral de Chile, Casilla 67, Valdivia.6) Universidad de Chile, Casilla 9183, Santiago.


(a) Accreditation - The universities are under government authority.

(b) Licensure - A professional degree is required for practice as a Medical Technologist in Chile, and a Certificate of Laboratory Assistant is required for auxiliary staff. An earlier title for the Technologist was Tecnico Laborante (laboratory technician). When the program became university based holders of the laboratory technician title were allowed to take a validation examination at the university and receive the title Medical Technologist.

(c) Certification and Registration - Although there are no requirements for certification or registration in any professional association, 90% of Medical Technologists are registered in the Colegio de Tecnólogos Médicos de Chile A.G.

(d) Professional associations - (1) Colegio de Tecnólogos Médicos de Chile A.G. J.M. de la Barra 480, Dpto 405, Clasificador 303 Santiago

(2) Sociedad Chilena de Química Clínica. Santa Filomena 91 Recoleta, Santiago

(3) Sociedad Chilena de Microbiología. (Unidad de Virología) Avenida Independencia 1027 Sector F-1, ler Piso Santiago

(4) Sociedad Chilena de Parasitología. Casilla 50470 Correo 1, Santiago (5) Sociedad Chilena de Hematología.

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Bernarda Morin 488 Santiago

(6) Sociedad Chilena de Immunología. Casilla 67 Correo 58 Santiago

(7) Sociedad Chilena de Genética. Casilla 1664 Correo 9 Santiago

(8) Sociedad Chilena de Citopathología. (Att. Sra. Judith Verni) Casilla 114-D Santiago

(9) Sociedad Chilena de Radiología. C. Silva Vildósola 1292 of. 22 Santiago

9. RECIPROCITY

There are no agreements of reciprocity in Chile, with regard to the qualifications of Medical Technologists. Those professionals trained abroad must submit syllabi and curriculum for the purpose of establishing equivalency to Chilean training. The applicant usually takes an examination in his/her specialty, after which he/she must complete 20 weeks of hospital residency. After this period the applicant is eligible to take an examination for the degree of Medical Technologist.

For academic equivalencies in the U.S., see: Foreign Educational Credentials Required for Consideration of Admission to Universities and Colleges in the United States.Washington, D.C. American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, 1994.


Coordinadora, Departamento de EspecialidadesColegio de Tecnologos Medicos de Chile

J.M. de la Barra 480 - Depto. 405Clasificador 303Santiago, Chile

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PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12Junior mid. Senior mid. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11school school Master’s Ph.D.

Prov. Educ. Comm. Exam State Educ. Comm.National Exam

Medical Colleges 1 2 3 **Medical Laboratory Technologist& Universities (Diploma)

1 2 3 4 5* Bachelor of Medicine, Medical Laboratory Technology

1 2 3* Laboratory Technician Diploma

Technical Secondary 1 2 3 4* Laboratory Technician Diploma Medical Schools

1* 2* 3* 4* 5* Medical LaboratoryTechnologist

1 2 3 (Diploma)Professional

Training Course

(Adult Ed.)

6* 7* 8* 9* 10*

* = work experience or internship**= plus 3 years work experience


The People’s Republic of China, with over one million schools and more than 200 million students, has the world’s largest school system. Only a tiny percentage of the population has access to higher education, and although national programs established nine years of compulsory education as its goal in 1985, completion of junior middle school is still far from universal. Although overall responsibility for schools in China rests with the State Education Commission (SEDC), most schools are under the direction of Provincial or other local bureaus of education.

Education for medical laboratorians in China takes place at both the secondary and post-secondary levels. Training takes place in Technical Secondary Medical Schools and in Medical Colleges and Universities which offer Medical Laboratory Science programs.

Students completing junior middle school (9 years of schooling) are eligible to enter programs (by Provincial exam) in Technical Secondary Medical Schools. There are 560 Technical Secondary Medical Schools in China, of which 64 offer laboratory technology programs. These programs, which are for junior middle school graduates, are 3 years in duration plus -year work experience.

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Students completing senior middle school may enter 2-year programs at Technical Secondary Medical Schools, or may sit for the National Entrance Examinations to enter: 1) a 5 -year university/college program, leading to the degree of Bachelor of Medicine Medical Laboratory Science. (4-year Bachelor’s programs also exist, although they are being phased out), or 2) a 3-year Diploma program (a “special course”) at the university level leading to the title Medical Technologist.

Technicians trained at the secondary level may advance to the level of Technologist either through work experience (5 years), plus a 3-year adult education “professional training” program, or through extended work experience (of 10 years) alone.

Technologists trained at the Bachelor’s level may sit for examinations to enter the 3-year master’s program at medical colleges and universities and upon completion may sit for further examinations to enter doctoral programs, also normally 3 years in duration. Specialization occurs only at these post-graduate levels.


1. Laboratory Technician -(Diploma)

a. 3 years of training in a technical secondary medical school, following junior middle school, or a total of 12 years of school, plus 1 year work experience.

b. 2 years of training in a specialized medical school or hospital, following senior middle school, or a total of 14 years of school, plus 1 year work experience.

2. Medical Laboratory Technologist - (Diploma)

a. 3 years of training in college or university (special course class), following senior middle school, or a total of 15 years of school, plus 3 years work experience.

b. Technician level training followed by 5 years of work experience and 3-year Professional Training Course (adult education).

c. Technician level training followed by 10 years of work experience.

Medical Laboratory Technologist (Bachelor of Medicine Medical Laboratory Technology) 5 years of training in college or university (Bachelor’s level) following senior middle school, or a total of 17 years of school, with year work experience.

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

1. Laboratory Technician -(Diploma)

a. Admission to Technical Secondary Medical School for the Technician diploma requires a minimum of 9 years schooling (completion of junior middle school) and is contingent upon success in the Provincial Education Commission examination.

b. or requires 12 years of senior secondary school

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2. Medical Laboratory Technologist - (Diploma)

a. Admission to the 3-year Medical Laboratory Technologist (Diploma) at a Medical College or University program requires graduation from a senior middle school, and passing a State Education Commission National Examination , or

b. Admission to the 3-year Professional Training Course (adult education) requires the Technician level Diploma followed by 5 years of work experience

c. Technician level training followed by 10 years of work experience.

2. Medical Laboratory Technologist (Bachelor of Medicine Medical Laboratory Technology)

Admission to one of the colleges or universities that have a Medical Laboratory Science program for a Bachelor’s level Medical Laboratory Technologist degree, requires a minimum of 12 years of schooling (completion of senior middle school) followed by attainment of an acceptable score on the National Examination (held by the State Education Commission) at the university admission level. A slightly lower score on this examination will qualify the candidate for admission to colleges and universities which offer the 3-year Medical Laboratory Technologist diploma (3-year special course).


Programs for medical laboratorians are polyvalent with specialization occurring only at the Masters and Doctoral levels.

All medical laboratorians from both Technical Secondary Schools and from colleges and universities are assigned work upon completion of studies at various hospitals and research institutions. Graduates from the adult education “professional training course” generally return to the laboratory in which they gained their previous work experience.

Graduates of Technical Secondary Schools generally work as Technicians or as Technologists’ assistants in all grades of hospitals or in public health or scientific research institutions. Their work involves primarily routine laboratory testing.

Graduates of the 3-year “special course” for the Medical Laboratory Technologists diploma are generally assigned to work at smaller, county-level or industrial hospitals.

Graduates of the 5-year programs in Medical Colleges and Universities are primarily assigned to the laboratories at large hospitals. A number are also assigned to conduct research or to work in laboratories of public health institutions.

The specialized professional with a post-graduate degree may be assigned to teach at the university level, to conduct research or to direct a division or department in one of the large hospitals.

The working hierarchy of medical laboratorians is as follows:

1) Technician - primarily routine work2) Technologist - primarily routine work; may also be a Technician with more than 10 years of working experience.3) Senior Technologist - A Technologist with more than five years of working experience or a technician with more than 15 years of work experience and may be in charge of a division.Chief Technologist - A Technologist with a Bachelor’s degree and more than 10 years of work experience and may be

in charge of a division or head of a department.

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6.CURRICULUMSample CurriculumShanghai Medical University4-Year Bachelor of Medicine Medical Laboratory Technology- 1989 Year 1 1st Term 2nd TermSubject Hours Hours Theory Practical Theory PracticalPolitical Economics 2 2 Physical Training 2 2 English 4 4Advanced Mathematics 4 1 Medical Physics 3 2 3 3Inorganic Chemistry 4 3Organic Chemistry 4 2Biology 2 2 Histology & Embryology 2 1Parasitology 2 1Moral Education Pass/fail

Year 2 1st Term 2nd TermSubject Hours Hours Theory Practical Theory PracticalPhilosophy 2Physical Training 2 2English 2 2Medical Ethics 2Physiology 3 2Biochemistry 6 4Analysis of Instruments 3 3Medical Statistics 2 1Microbiology & Immunology 4 4Pathoanatomy 3 4Clinical Testing 2 2Immunochemistry 2

Year 3 1st Term 2nd TermSubject Hours Hours Theory Practical Theory PracticalIntroduction to Clinical Medicine 6 2English 3 3Clinical Immunology 4 2Clinical Biochemistry 4 2Clinical Microbiology 4 2Hematology 4 2Exfoliative Cytology 2 1Pathophysiology 4 2Histological Slice & Technology of Electron Microscope 4Theory & Technology of Computer 4 2 Biophysics 2Quality Control of Lab, Mgmt. 2 1Experimental Zoology 2 2

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Year 4 1st Term 2nd TermSubject Hours Hours Theory Practical Theory PracticalTechnology of Histology 2Clinical Routine Testing* *Blood Banking* *Clinical Biochemical Testing* *Clinical Immunological Testing* *Clinical Microbiological Testing* *Clinical Hematological Testing* * Graduate Projects (Thesis)** * * Practical Training for the 18 week semester** The final semester is devoted to Thesis work

Huaxi University of Medical Sciences (West China University of Medical Science) 5-Year Bachelor of Medicine- Medical Laboratory Technology-1991

Year 1Subject Hrs

Year 2Subect

English 136 English 170Advanced Mathematics 64 Ethics 17Biology 102 Histology & Embryology 108Computer Language 72 Analytical Chemistry 198Physical Education 68 Human Physiology 144Organic Chemistry 108 Physical Education 68Physics 108 Biochemistry 72Inorganic Chemistry 144 Microbiology 72

Parasitology 72Law 17

Year 3 Year 4Physical Chemistry 90 Nuclear Medicine 36Biochemistry 72 Clinical Laboratory Technology 108Pathology 108 Indexes of Bibliography 32Physical Diagnostics 72 Analysis of Enzymatic Methods 108Medical English 68 Hemotology & Its Lab. Technology 119Mathematics Statistics 72 Clinical Microbiology 170Pathophysiology 72 Clinical Biochemistry 234Internal Medicine 108 Clinical Immunology 108Surgery 72 Pharmaceutical Analysis In-Vivo 54Gynecology & Obstetrics 54Pediatrics 54Latin 34D.M.E 18

Year 5 WksInternships: Clinical Laboratory Technology 6 Clinical Hemotology 4 Clinical Chemistry 6 Clinical Microbiology 4 Clinical Immunology 2Thesis 2

Grading: A= 85-100; B= 75-84; C= 60-74; D= under 60; Pass = 60-100; F = Below 60

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7.LIST OF PROGRAMS

Five-year Medical Colleges or Universities:

Beijing Medical Sciences University Bengbu Medical College38, Xue Yan Lu 108, Zhi Huai RoadBeijing 100083 Bengbu ,Anhui Province, 233003

Chongqing University of Medical Sciences Dalian Medical CollegeShapingba District Xinghai StChongqing, Sichuan Province 630046 Dalian ,Liaoning Province 116023

Fujian Medical College Guiyang Medical College88, Jiaotong Rd J.C. RoadFuzhou Guang Zhou Fujian Province 350004 Henan Province

Henan University of Medical Sciences Hunan University of Medical SciencesUniversity Road 22, Beizhung Rd Zhang Zhou Changsha, Hunan Province 410078Henan Province

Huaxi University of Medical Sciences Jiangxi Medical College(West China University of Medical Science) B.Y. Road17, Section 3, Renmin Nanlu NanchangChengdu City Jiangxi ProvinceSichuan Province, 610044

Jilin Medical College Nanjing Railway Medical CollegeJilin City Khmer People’s Liberation ArmyJilin Province 3rd University of Military Medicine Chongqing Sichuan Province

Qingdao Medical College Shanghai Medical University10, Huangtai Rd 138 Y.X.Y Road, Shandong Province 266012 Shanghai, 200032

Shanghai Second Medical University Tianjin Second Medical College280 South Chongqing Road 1, Guangdong RdShanghai Hexi District Tianjin Province 300203

Zhangjiakou Medical College Zhenjiang Medical CollegeW.M. Road Liberation RoadZhanjiang, Guangdong Province Zhenjian, Jiangsu Province 212001

Three-year (“Special Course” in Medical Laboratory Technology) Schools, Colleges & Universities:

Air Force Medical College Beijing Workers’ Medical College30, West Diaoyuai 12, Wanshoulu XijieBeijing Beijing

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Bengbu Medical College Chongqing University of Medical 108, Zho Hua Rd. SciencesBengbu , Anhui Province 233003 Chongqing, Sichuan Province 630046

Dalian Medical College Dalian Military Medical SchoolXinghai sanzhan Shahekop, Dalian, Liaoning Province 1160023

North China Medical School of Coal Miners Guangxi College for Health WorkersTangshan B.H. RoadHebai Province Nanhing Guangxi

Guangzhou Medical College Hubei School for Pharmacology and Second (West) East Wind Road Laboratory ScienceGuangzhou, Guangdong Province

Hunan Medical School Jiangsxi Medical College22, Beizhang Rd 161,, Bayi Ave.Changsha , Hunan Province 410078 Nanching, Jiangxi Rovince 330006 Jiamusi Medical College Jiujiang Medical SchoolJiamusi JiujiangHeilongjiang Province 154002 Jiangxi Province 343 000

Medical School of Dalian University Medical School of Chengdu Military Dalian, Liaoning Province Area Command

Medical School of Lanzhou Military Area Command Nanjing Railway Medical College7, Donggang Xilu 87 DingjiaoqiaoLanzhou City, Gansu Province Jiangsu Province ,210009 Nanjing Medical College140, Hanzhong Rd.Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029 No. 3 Army Medical College Navy Medical SchoolGaotanyan Shapingba MaqunChongqing City, Sichuan Province Nanjing City, Jiansu Province Qingdao Medical College Shanghai Second Medical UniversityShandong Province 280 South Chongqing Road Shanghai

Shijiazhuang Medical School Sichuan College for Health Shijiazhuang AdministratorsHebei Province

Tianjin Second Medical College Wenzhou Medical CollegeTianjin Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province

Youjiang Nationalities Medical College Zhanjian Medical CollegeBose W.M. Road, ZhanjiangGuangxi Guangdong Province

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Zhenjian Medical College Jixi Medical College of Coal MinersHangzhou, Zhejiang Province Xishan Diqu Jixi City, Heilongjiang Province


a) AccreditationThe Ministry of Public Health gives general guidelines for Medical Laboratory Science Education in China. There is no accreditation system or general body which controls education for medical laboratorians.

b) Certification, Licensure, Registration There is no formal certification, licensure or registration system for practicing Medical Technologists. Corresponding diplomas or degrees, along with work experience are the requirements for professional recognition at the various levels.

c) AssociationsThe Chinese Laboratory Medicine Society (CLMS), a society of the Chinese Medical Association, functions as the sole professional association for Medical Laboratory Technology in China.There also six societies under the Chinese Medical Association (CMA) which relate to Medical Laboratory Technologists.

Society of CMA* Established Society of Laboratory Medicine 9/79Society of Microbiology and Immunology 12/78Society of Medical Virology 10/85Society of Infections and Parasitic Diseases 12/80Society of Hematology 5/80Society of Nuclear Medicine 12/80


Currently, no foreign degrees or diplomas are recognized for employment in the field of Medical Laboratory Technology in China. However, foreign experts or foreign teachers may be recruited by the Chinese government (The Foreign Experts Bureau) or directly by Chinese institutions for the purpose of advanced teaching and upgrading skill levels of employees.


President, Society of Laboratory MedicineChinese Medical Association, c/o National Centre for Clinical Laboratory

Beijing Hospital Compound, Dong Dan, Beijing 100730

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COLOMBIA


Bachillerato(Secondary School Leaving Certificate)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11primary school secondary school

State ExaminationBacteriólogo yLaboratorista Clinico

University or College 1 2 3 4* 5* (Bacteriologist andClinical Laboratorian)

1 Public Health Serviceleading to Certification

Universities of 6 7 Master’s DegreePontifica Javeriana,de los Andesand del Valle

University → Ph.D. DegreePontifica Javeriana

Note:* = Practical Training: Supervised at an In-Hospital laboratory or Private Clinic during last two semesters. Duration of Programs vary between 8 to 10 Semesters at different Colleges/Universities.


Primary school educational sequence consists of 5 years (grades 1 - 5), children generally beginning their schooling at the age of five. This is followed by 6 years at the secondary level (grades 6 - 11), leading to the Secondary School Leaving Certificate (Bachillerato). University or college level education comprises 4 to 5 years, and may be followed by graduate studies (2 years) for the Master’s Degree, which may be followed by a Ph.D. degree (at Universidad Javeriana).

To become a Medical Laboratory Scientist a student must have received the Bachillerato and successfully completed a program of eight to ten semesters at the University/College level, leading to certification as a Bacteriologist and Clinical Laboratorian. The student may then continue at one of five graduate programs which take 2 years and lead to the Master’s degree in Microbiology with a specialization in Microbiology, Immunology, Medical Microbiology or Clinical Chemistry.

The need to train clinical laboratory personnel became evident in the early decades of the twentieth century as new technology became available and newer methods of scientific analyses were introduced. Initially, training took place in laboratories run by physicians who needed clinical assistance, but as demand for trained personnel increased, the universities began to assume the training responsibilities. In the 1940s, the National University opened a 3-year program leading to the degree of Bacteriologist with a major in Bacteriology. (The name of the degree shows the influence of the French educational system,

48 49

where the name of a degree is taken from the principal work that the graduate was trained to perform).

In 1942, Universidad Javeriana opened a Women’s School with a 4-year program to prepare professionals in bacteriology. During the next 10 years several similar women’s programs opened in various institutions of higher education throughout the country: two more in Bogotá, one in Manizales, two in Medellin, one in Bucaramanga, one in Barranquilla, and one in Cali.

As of 1968, all of these schools opened admissions to men as well as women, and in 1970 at the joint meeting of all of the universities, it was decided to raise the degree standard. Currently, undergraduate studies have a duration of 8 - 10 semesters depending on the university.

Requirements for the Bacteriologist degree as well as other for professional certification are now covered by national law. Professional certification of all who are involved in Clinical Laboratory work is subject to the control and regulation of the Central Government, Ministry of Public Health.

All Bacteriologist degree programs include two semesters of practical work in a hospital or private clinic. In addition, the State requires a year of Public Health Service, the candidate being assigned to work in a small village or in an officially designated area of a city. On completion of this training and service, the Bacteriologist obtains the professional certification card from the Ministry of Health, qualifying him/her to perform Hematological, Biochemical, Fungal, Parasitological or Immunological tests, with or without supervision in a hospital or clinical laboratory.


Training for Medical Laboratory Science takes place at the undergraduate level (Bacteriologist), and at the Master’s degree level as follows:

City University or College Bacteriologist* Master’sBarranquilla Universidad Metropolitana 10 semesters** not offeredBogotá Universidad Pontificia Javeriana 10semesters 2 years Universidad de los Andes 10 semesters 2 years Colegio Mayor de Cundinamarca 10 semesters Bucaramanga Universidad Industrial de Santander 8 semesters not offeredCali Universidad del Valle 8 semesters 2 yearsManizales Universidad Católica de Manizales 8 semesters not offeredMedellin Universidad Antioquia 8 semesters Colegio Mayor de Antioquia 8 semesters not offered* All these programs were of 8 semesters duration in 1994.** Introduced in 1993 with first intake in 1994.

Master’s degree programs, with emphasis on Microbiology, Immunology, Medical Microbiology or Clinical Chemistry, require 2 years of study and a thesis.


Entrance requirements for applicants to the Bacteriologist programs are the Bachillerato and the State Examination with a minimum grade of 300 (on a 0 - 400 scale). Some programs also require an interview and conduct their own examinations.

Admission to the Master’s degree program requires the Bacteriologist title and a passing grade in the entrance examination.

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In Colombia Bacteriologist programs are polyvalent and cover Hematology, Medical Bacteriology, Immunology, Immunohematology and Clinical Chemistry. Several specializations in medical laboratory science are also offered in the above-mentioned areas. All those who complete their studies and fulfill a year of public service are regulated by a National Law that requires them to register their degree in a Public Health Office.

A Bacteriologist may apply for a position in a private hospital or Public Health laboratory. Here, under constant supervision, they do laboratory work, take responsibility for it, and make reports to their supervisors. A specialized professional may become the director of a specialized section in a hospital, or may take a better-paying job in a private laboratory, or may work in a research center or as a supervisor of other Medical Laboratory Scientists. Those who achieve the Master’s degree can apply for a position as a supervisor in the same laboratories.

6. CURRICULUMBacteriologist

Universidad Pontificia Javeriana - Before 1994

Semester 1 .Subject HoursIntroduction to Natural Sciences 36General Biology : Theory and Practice 126Basic Chemistry : Theory and Practice 126Mathematics 72Spanish 72First Aid 36Semester 1Bacterial Cytology : Theory & Practicals - Structural & Morphological Bacteriology 54Human Histology : Theory and Practice - Oraganic & Systemic Tissue Structures 108Human Anatomy 72Genetics : Theory and Practice 72Analytical Chemistry : Theory and Practice 126Statistics 54Biophysics : Theory and Practice 90

Semester 3 .Subject HoursBacterial Metabolism : Theory and Practice - Bacterial Mechanisms of Synthesis 108Human Physiology 90Biochemistry : Theory and Practice 126Statistics 72Research Methodology 72

Semester 4 .Subject HoursSystematic Bacteriology : Theory and Practice - Diagnosis 144Instrumental Analysis : Theory and Practice - Photometric Analytical Methods 108Physiopathology 54Hematology : Theory and Practice 108Immunology : Theory and Practice 126

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Semester 5 .Subject HoursHematology and Immunohematology : Theory and Practice 108Mycology : Theory and Practice 90Virology : Theory and Practice 108Clinical Chemistry - Analytical Methods for Biological Quantification 126Humanities 54

Semester 6 .Subject HoursToxicology : Theory and Practice - Principal Laboratory Methods for diagnosis of acute intoxications 144Food Microbiology : Theory and Practice 126Biotechnology : Theory and Practice 90Parasitology : Theory and Practice 108Clinical Correlation : Theory and Practice - Integration of knowledge of the medical lab. 90

Semester 7 .Subject HoursHospital Practice - Practical rotating work in a medical laboratory at a hospital 720General Administration - The Business role of a laboratory 54

Semester 8 .Subject HoursSpecialized research training 600Biological Control of Products : Vaccines and Biological Therapeutics 54Health Administration 36

Semester 9 .Subject HoursGraduation WorkEpidemiology and Public Health 54Humanities 54Electives (choose from: Veterinary Bacteriology, Forensic Laboratory, Soil Microbiology, Computers, Teacher Training) 108 ea.Examinations are given in each subject. The minimum passing grade is 3.0 on a scale of 0 - 5.0, but, to remain in the program, students must maintain a cumulative average of 3.3/5.0.

BacteriologistUniversidad Pontificia Javeriana - After 1994

(In the new program, introduced in 1994, please note changes in the final 3 semesters)

Subject CreditsSemester 8Clinical Practice 18

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Semester 9Clinical Practice 18

Semester 10Graduation Work 6Monitoring 6Elective 8

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Director, BacteriologyUniversidad MetropolitanaBarranquilla, Colombia

Director, BacteriologyUniversidad Pontificia JaverianaCarrera 70 # 43-82Santafé de Bogotá, Colombia

Director, BacteriologyUniversidad de los AndesBogotá, Colombia

Director, BacteriologyColegio Mayor de CundinamarcaBogotá, Colombia

Director, BacteriologyUniversidad Industrial de SantanderBucaramanga, Colombia

Director, BacteriologyUniversidad del ValleCali, Colombia

Director, BacteriologyUniversidad Católica de ManizalesManizales, Colombia

Director, BacteriologyUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellin, Colombia

Director, BacteriologyColegio Mayor de AntioquiaMedellin, Colombia


(a) Accreditation, (b) Certification, (c) Licensure and (d) Registration - While National Law still recognizes a National College of Bacteriologists, this institution is

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no longer operative. Currently, requirements for professional recognition are: completion of studiesin a recognized institution, a year of public service, and registration & accreditation of the degree by a Public Health Office.

(e) Professional Associations - Federacion de Bacteiologos Colombianos’(FEBAC) Calle 132A No 30-65, APTO 401, Bogotá.

Federacion Colombiana de Especialistas en Laboratorio (FECODEL) Transversal 5 No 49-00, Entrepiso 1- Hospital Militar, Bogotá.

Asociacion de Bacteriologos Sindicalizados (ASBAS) Calle 52A No 27A-27, Apto 102, Bogotá.

Asociacion de Bacteriologos Javerianos Calle 57 No 7-11, Oficina 504, Bogotá.


Equivalence for foreign-trained medical laboratory technologists is evaluated by the Colombian Institution for the Development of Higher Education [Instituto Colombiano Para la Education Superior (ICFES)], which is affiliated with the Ministry of Education regarding the recognition of degrees and diplomas obtained abroad. This Institute collects the information about the applicant, such as type of degree, grades and certification. This information is then sent to a qualifying school where it is determined if the applicant needs further training/courses in order to secure equivalence.

The degrees recognized are principally those from Latin American countries, the United States, Mexico, and Costa Rica at the first level. ICFES also handles the accreditation for applicants with a specialization.


Director, BacteriologyUniversidad Pontificia Javeriana

Carrera 70 # 43-82Santafé de Bogotá, Colombia

Tel: (571) 2-850503Fax: (571) 2-850503

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 Bachilleratoprimary secondary

1 2 3 4* Licenciado enBioanálisis (Licentiate in Biological Analysis)

* Followed by 6 months internship in a laboratory


Until 1960 clinical analysis in the country was provided by a small nucleus of professionals trained abroad or by persons without academic training who had practical experience. In 1960 the School of Clinical Analysis was inaugurated with a two-year program at the secondary school level, leading to the Técnico en Análisis Clínico. Three years later, in 1963, one year was added to the basic program. On March 15, 1967 the School of Medical Technology was substituted for the former and the length of the program increased to four years of study, leading to the Tecnólogo Médico (Medical Technologist). Ten years later, on July 7, 1977, having trained the majority of Medical Technologists working in the country, the professors and students of the School of Medical Technology with the advice of the Office of Education and Planning -ODEPLAN—undertook an evaluation of the training process and arrived at some conclusions:

1) That an implementation of a program for training Medical Technologists at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo would be a positive development by providing a better possibility for the professionalization of the field and better health practice in all its dimensions;

2) That the philosophy, objectives, the program and the teaching methodology and evaluation being used at that time provided an adequate background in the field;

3) That the program in effect in 1977 incorporated some aspects of models from countries more economically developed and with a different social dynamics than that of the Dominican Republic;

4) That the individualistic, formal, linear and marginal model of training, as it was interpreted in the 1977 curriculum, did not provide an appropriate concept for the training needed in the Dominican Republic at the time and thus a program more suitable to the country should be developed.

Subsequently the curricula underwent a number of changes. As of 1997, the curriculum in effect is PLAN 12, which is described in Section 6. The current qualification is a first degree-- that of Licentiate in Biological Analysis (Licenciado en Bioanálisis) which is a four-year program available at five universities in the Dominican Republic (see list of programs).


Medical Technologist training at the moment is offered at the bachelor’s level and leads to the degree of Licenciate in Biological Analysis (Licenciado en Bioanálisis) following four years of study.


Admission to study for the qualification Licentiate in Biological Analysis is based on the 12-year elementary/secondary school sequence and successful completion of the examinations for the secondary school diploma—the title Bachiller.


The program of study for the Licentiate in Biological Analysis is polyvalent and includes Hematology, Immunology,

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Serology, Clinical Chemistry, Urinanalysis, Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology, Parasitology, Mycology, Histology, Histocytology, among others.

Graduates have excellent employment opportunities for work in areas, such as commercial sales (equipment and reagents); industry, private laboratories, health regional centers, clinics, and in hospitals, all with opportunity for promotion.

6. CURRICULUM

The curriculum for the degree Licentiate in Biological Analysis consists of eight semesters of which the first two are the Basic Cycle common to all areas of health study: Biological Analysis, Nursing, Dentistry, Medicine and Pharmacy, followed by a 6 month supervised internship and preparation of a thesis. Licenciado en Bioanálisis (1994) Autonomous University of Santo Domingo Sample CurriculumSubject Theory Hours Practical Hours CreditsYear 1Basic biology 2 2 3Institutional guidance 1 0 1Introduction to philosophy 3 0 3Basic physics 3 3 4Introduction to social sciences 2 0 2Basic Spanish language I/II 6 2 6Basic mathematics 4 0 4Basic chemistry 2 3 3Morphological function 4 2 5Physical education 0 3 1Basics of Dominican history 3 0 3Health and human behavior 2 3 3Organic chemistry 2 3 3Health and society I 2 3 3Introduction to research methods in sciences 2 2 3TOTAL for year 38 26 47

Subjects Theory hours Practical hours CreditsYear 2Introduction to biological analysis 2 2 3Bioanalysis and technology 2 3 3Social bioanalysis 2 0 2Biochemical processes of organism I/II 4 7 7Histology 2 2 3Biostatistics 2 2 3Inorganic qualitative chemistry 2 3 3Health and society 2 4 4Biological fluids 2 2 3Genetics 2 2 3Pathophysiology 3 0 3Elementary English I 4 0 4General parasitology 2 4 4Quantitative analysis 3 3 4TOTAL Year 2 34 34 49

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Year 3Clinical laboratory administration 2 0 2Basic hematology 3 3 4Immunology 2 3 3Urinanalysis 2 3 3Deontology (Ethics) in bioanalysis 2 0 2General microbiology 2 4 4General and special parasitology 2 4 4Hematology I 3 3 4Clinical immunology 3 3 4Practice I 0 5 2Immunohematology 2 3 3Clinical chemistry I 3 6 5Special microbiology 2 4 4TOTAL Year 3 28 41 44

Year 4 Semester VIIMethods of health research 2 0 2Practice II 0 5 2Special practice (Clinical chemistry and hematology) 0 5 2Hematology II 3 6 5Clinical chemistry II 3 6 5Environmental and occupational toxicology 2 3 3Introduction to computers 4 0 4Mycology 2 2 3TOTAL 16 27 26

Year 4-Semester VIIISupervised professional practice 0 0 10Degree thesis or equivalent course 0 0 8TOTAL Semester VIII -- -- 18 TOTAL Credits: 184

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Department of Biological AnalysisFaculty of Health Science Autonomous University of Santo DomingoApartado Postal No. 1355Ciudad UniversitarioSanto DomingoTel. (809) 685 7597 FAX (809) 686-5768/687-0468e-mail [email protected]

Universidad Central del Este (UCE)Avenida CircunvalaciónSan Pedro de Macoris Tel. (809) 529-3562 FAX (809) 687-5036

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Universidad Colegio Dominicana de Estudios Profesionales (CEDEP)Prol. Independencia, Km. 9 1⁄2Carretera SanchezSanto DomingoTel. (809) 532-8385 FAX (809) 535-6424

Universidad Tecnologica del Cibao (UTECI)Aut. Duarte, Km 1 1⁄2Avenida UniversitariaApartado Postal 401La VegaTel. (809) 573-3863

Instituto Tecnologico del Cibao Oriental (ITECO)CotuiTel. (809) 585-2291


a. Accreditation All universities offering the Licenciado qualification are accredited by the government through the National Council for Higher Education (Consejo Nacional para la Educacion Superior - CONES).

b. Certification Certificates are granted by State authority after students have passed the degree examinations.

c. Licensing Professional licensing to practice in the area of medical technology is provided through the Secretary of State for Public Health and Social Assistance (SESPAS: Secretaria de Estado de Salud Publica y Asistencia Social ).d. Professional Association:

Asociacion Domininicana de Profesionalesdel Laboratario Clinicoc/Mercedes 371Apto de Carreos 22235, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic


Foreign trained Medical Technologists seeking permission to work in the Dominican Republic must have their documents evaluated by the Universidad Autonoma de Santo Domingo (UNAM) as follows:

a. The Faculty of Medical Sciences of the University of Santo Domingo has a Commission for Revalidation and Convalidation which processes applications for licenses to work in the Dominican Republic. Applicants complete the appropriate forms and submit these together with residency information, appropriate original documents for the qualifications achieved and courses completed in the field.

b. For additional reciprocity information, see reciprocity section for each individual county entry in the directory.

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Directora NacionalDepartamento de Laboratorios y Bancos de Sangre

Secretaria de Estado de Salud Publica y Asistencia Social(Secretary of State for Public Health and Social Assistance

Santo Domingo

or

DirectoraDepartamento de Bioanálisis

Universidad Autonoma de Santo DomingoCiudad Universitaria, Santo Domingo

República DominicanaTel: 685-7597

Fax: (809) 686-5768/687-0468e-mail [email protected]

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ECUADOR


High School Diploma1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

primary school secondary schoolMedical Technologist Degree

College 1 2 3 (Tecnóloge Médico/Técnico Laboratorio Clínico)

University 1 2 3 4 Bachelor’s Degree(Biologo)

5 6 Professional Degree(Medical/Engineering)


Until 1995 the basic scheme of education in Ecuador was: Pre-school - 2 years starting at age four (optional); Primary school - 6 years, starting at age six, and Secondary school - 6 years, starting at age twelve. Since 1995 there has been an effort to change the pattern for basic schooling. The proposal is: Basic education - 10 years, starting at age 4; Intermediate - 4 years, starting at age 14.

College or university studies vary in length, depending on the career that is chosen. For example, intermediate careers take 3 years at the college or post-secondary level. Careers requiring a Bachelor’s degree take 4 years. Professional careers such as Engineering or Medicine demand 5 to 6 years education after secondary school.

Medical Technology programs are only at the intermediate level and take 3 years, following successful completion of 12 years of schooling. These are offered only at accredited universities such as the University of Pontificiá Universidad Católica del Ecuador (PUCE), which offers Medical Technology in Clinical and Histopathological Laboratory. As of 1995 there were no bachelor degree programs in the field of Medical Laboratory Science, although there is interest in introducing such programs. However, universities do offer a bachelor’s degree in Microbiology. Those who wish to earn a master’s or doctorate must go abroad.

The first Medical Technology studies at the college level in Ecuador began in 1968 when Pontificiá Universidad Católica del Ecuador introduced a 2-year program, leading to certification in this area. In 1973 the program expanded to 3 years. Around this time other universities in the country such as in Guayaquil, Manabi, and Quito also began offering Medical Technology programs.

Prior to obtaining the Medical Laboratory Technologist qualification, students must undertake practical training in private or hospital laboratories for at least 3 semesters (part-time during the academic year) and during the vacation period between semesters.

On obtaining a Medical Technologist Degree, the student qualifies as General Technologist capable of: specimen collection (blood drawing) and performing routine analyses in Hematology, Urinalysis, Parasitology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Cytotechnology and/or Quality Control.

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The 3-year Medical Technology program includes 6 academic semesters and practical training. The University of Pontificiá Universidad Católica del Ecuador (PUCE) also offers a course in Microbiology as it applies to food, agriculture and veterinary science. The course is open to Medical Technologists who wish to get a bachelor’s degree and specialization


The basic requirement for admission to the Medical Technology programs is a high school diploma. At PUCE a psychological test, which is administered by the university to determine the candidate’s interests and abilities, is also required. Other universities have their own entrance requirements.


Medical laboratory science training in Ecuador is polyvalent. This training includes Hematology, Urinalysis, Histological Techniques, Cytology, Microbiology (Bacteriology, Parasitology, Mycology, Virology), Clinical Chemistry, Serology and Immunology.

Medical Laboratory Technologists work as part of a health team at different laboratories, in either private or state hospitals, or in research or pharmaceutical centers, and their levels of opportunity vary depending on the place of work:(1) General Technologist - After graduation, Medical Technologists qualify to be general technologists;(2) Supervisor - To qualify for this position a candidate must have several years of practice following the Medical Technologist degree, and/or continuing education or specialization courses. Some places require candidates to pass specific tests; and(3) Director - The Laboratory Director must be a medical doctor with a specialization in the area.

6. CURRICULUM

In 1995, the program at PUCE consisted of humanistic or general subjects, basic subjects and specialization subjects such as Clinical Chemistry, Clinical Hematology, Microbiology, Virology, Urinalysis, Cytotechnology, Mycology, and Computerized Techniques.

The academic semester consists of 17 weeks. One credit hour = 1 hour per week. Usually, each subject includes 2 or 3 credit hours theory, plus 2 hours per week in the practical laboratory. Students generally earn 30 credits per semester and obtain part-time practice at different laboratories.

Students must earn a numeric grade of 35/50 in specialization subjects and 30/50 in other subjects. To obtain a degree, a student must complete the curriculum and successfully pass both written and practical examinations in specialized subjects. The exam value is 10. To pass, a student must get a 6/10 grade.

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Sample Curriculum3 year - Medical Technology Degree

Pontificiá Universidad Católica del EcuadorSchool of Medical Technology

First Semester Credit CreditSubject Theory LaboratoryBasic Chemistry 3 --Instrumentation Physics 1 1General Biology 3 1Mathematics 3 --Anatomy and Physiology 4 1Basic Laboratory Techniques 1 1Hematology I 2 1Methods of Scientific Techniques 3 --Second SemesterStatistics 3 --General Chemistry 4 1Urinalysis 1 1Hematology II 2 1Histology 2 1Histologic Techniques 1 1First Aid 2 --Christianity I 3 --Third SemesterAnalytical Chemistry 3 1Organic Chemistry 4 1Parasitology 2 1Basic Pathology 2 1Cytotechnology I 2 1Introduction to Computers 2 --Philosophy of Science 2 --Fourth SemesterBiochemistry 4 1Clinical Chemistry I 2 1Microbiology 2 1Serology and Immunology 1 1Cytotechnology II 2 1General Psychology 2 --Hospital Practicum I --Fifth Semester Credit CreditSubject Theory LaboratoryMedical Bacteriology I 3 1Medical Mycology 2 1Virology 2 --Blood Banking 1 1Clinical Chemistry II 2 1Quality Control 2 --Christianity II 3 --Hospital Practicum II --

Subject Theory LaboratorySixth SemesterMedical Bacteriology II 3 1Clinical Chemistry III 1 1Clinical Case Studies - Seminar 1 --Nuclear Medicine 2 --Hospital Practicum III TOTAL CREDIT HOURS = 116

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Pontificiá Universidad Católica del Ecuador (PUCE) Tel: 593-2-529-240/ 250/ 260Av. 12 de Octobre, entre Av. Patria y Veintimilla Fax: 593-2-567-117Apartado 2184Quito, Ecuador

Universidad Central del EcuadorAv. da America y A. Perez GuerroApartado 3291Quito, Ecuador

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Universidad de GuayaquilCasilla 471Guayquil, Ecuador

Universidad Tecnica de ManabíCasilla 82, PortoviejoManabi, Ecuador


Ecuador has no central body that controls Medical Technology education and training, but the institutions that offer these programs must have been approved by Conscjo Nacional de Universidades y Escuelas Politecnicas, CONUEP (= National Council of Universities and Polytechnical Schools).

However, prior to getting a position, a Medical Technologist must become a member of the National Medical Technologists Federation and College of Medical Technologists:

The College of Medical TechnologistsAv. America #1034 y BoliviaSequndo pisa Tel: 593-2-507-379Quito, Ecuador

National Medical Technologists FederationAv. America #1034 y BoliviaSequndo pisa Tel: 593-2-507-379Quito, Ecuador


Professionals trained abroad must comply with certain legal requirements to have their degree recognized by the country. They must present the curriculum and programs that they have taken in order for equivalency to be established. PUCE recognizes degrees of students who have achieved a grade of at least 80 percent in university programs that are similar to those offered at PUCE.


DirectorSchool of Medical Technology

Pontificiá Universidad Católica del EcuadorAv. 12 de Octobre, entre Av. Patria y Veintimilla

Apartado 2184Quito, Ecuador

Tel: 593-2-529-240/ 250/ 260Fax: 593-2-567-117

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ETHIOPIA

1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE*

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 School Leaving Certificateprimary secondary Higher Sec.

1 2 Diploma Medical LaboratoryTechnician1 2 3 4 B.Sc. in Med. Lab

Technology*** Because information was not available as we went to press the outline does not take into account the recently introduced regional 1-year Junior

Laboratory Technician program. ** Jimma Institute graduated the first class of 13 B.Sc. students in Medical Laboratory Technology in 1998


Education in Ethiopia begins when a child is six to eight years of age. Primary education extends from Grade 1 through 6, followed by junior secondary school (Grades 7 and 8) and senior secondary school (Grades 9 through 12). Education in Medical Laboratory Science can be traced as far back as 1946 when the National Institute of Health introduced a program designed to provide some formal training for laboratorians, although intake standards were admittedly irregular. Between 1947 and 1989, the program trained 658 junior technicians and 138 senior technicians. In 1956 Gondar College of Medical Science established its own training program and in 1964 Minilik II Hospital Medical Laboratory Technician School was begun. These programs admitted students after 10 years of primary/ secondary schooling and lasted 2 years. In 1977, the entrance requirement for the programs was changed from Grade 10 to Grade 12. Today training for Medical Technicians begins after completion of Grade 12, lasts two years and leads to the Diploma Medical Laboratory Technician. In 1998 a 4-year B.Sc. program in Medical Laboratory Science at Jimma Institute of Health Sciences graduated its first group of 13 students. Another very recent development is a 1-year Junior Laboratory Technician program which awards a certificate upon graduation and is available in several regions. Unlike the Diploma and B.Sc. programs, which come under the central government, the Junior Laboratory Technician program is under the responsibility and authority of regional governments. 3. LEVELS AND LENGTH OF TRAINING

1) Two-year Diploma Medical Laboratory Technician Training as a Medical Laboratory Technician requires two years post-secondary study. On successful completion of

the program the student is awarded a Diploma as a Medical Laboratory Technician and is eligible to work in hospitals, health centers, and clinics and in other research institutions.

2). Four-year B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory Technology A 4-year B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory Technology is provided at Jimma Institute of Health Science.

3) One-year Junior Laboratory Technician Certificate As of 1998 a 1-year Junior Laboratory Technician Certificate program under the authority of individual regional

governments is available.

4. ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS The entrance requirement for the 2-year Medical Laboratory Technician and 4-year B.Sc. programs is the School Leaving Certificate, following 12 years of elementary/secondary education.

Entrance requirements for the new 1-year Junior Laboratory Technician program are not yet available.

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1) Two-year Diploma Medical Laboratory Technician The training program is polyvalent and covers all laboratory disciplines including Microbiology, Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Blood Banking, Immunology etc. Medical Laboratorians work in hospitals, health centers, and clinics as well as other research institutions.

2) Four-year B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory TechnologyThe 4-year B.Sc. program in Medical Laboratory Technology will provide staff for more complex methods and analyses performed at the regional health laboratories and the Central Laboratory.

3) One-year Junior Laboratory Technician Certificate Information on this program is not yet available.

6. CURRICULUM

The educational strategy is to give emphasis to the practical aspects of laboratory skills. Hospitals, health centers, and other health institutions with laboratories are used for practical experience. Field practice under supervision is used when feasible.

2-year Medical Laboratory Technician ProgramIssued by the Ministry of Health 1995

Year 1 Sem. ISubject Lect. Hrs Lab. Hrs. Credit Per Wk. per Wk*.English 3 - 3Sociology 2 - 2G. Chemistry 3 3 4G. Biology 2 3 3Intro. to Med. Lab. 2 3 3Anatomy & Physiology 3 - 3Total 15 9 18Year 1 Sem. IIParasitology 3 3 4 Bacteriology I 2 3 3Hematology I 2 3 3Biostatistics 2 - 2Health Educ. 2 - 2Epidemiology 2 - 2Total 13 9 16Year 1 Summer Session:Lab. Equip. Main. 1 - 1Urinalysis 2 3 3Immunology 2 3 3 & SerologyTotal 5 6 7Year II Sem. IParasitology II 3 3 4Bacteriology II 2 3 3Hematology II 3 3 4C. Chemistry 3 3 4Histological & 1 2 1 Cytological Tech. Total 12 14 16Year II Sem. IIBlood Banking 2 3 3

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Lab. Mngmt. & Qual. 2 - 2Control & Maint.C. Chemistry II 3 3 4Lab. Practicum/ 12 4Professional CourseTotal 7 18 13* 3 lab hours = 1 credit hour

4-year BSc. 1998Jimma Institute of Health Sciences

Year 1 Sem. ISubject Lect. Hrs Lab. Hrs. CreditsEnglish I 3 - 3Mathematics I 3 - 3Gen. Chemistry 3 3 4Gen. Biology 2 3 3Physics 2 3 3First Aid 1 - 1Physical Education - - - Ethiopian History 3 - 3Total 20Year 1 Sem. IIEnglish II 3 - 3 Mathematics II 3 - 3Ethiopian Geography 3 - 3Sociology 2 - 2Intro. To Psychology. 2 - 2Intro. To Med. Laboratory. 2 3 3Intro. To Organic Chem. 1 3 2Health Education 2 - 2Total 20

Year II Sem. IAnatomy 2 3 3Parasitology I 3 3 4Urinalysis 3 3 4Biochemistry 2 3 3Medical Entomology 1 3 2English III 3 - 3Total 19Year II Sem. IIParasitology II 3 3 4Hematology I 3 3 4Bacteriology I 3 3 4Biostatistics 2 3 3Immunology 2 3 3Physiology 1 3 2Total 20Year III Sem. IHematology II 3 3 4Bacteriology II 3 3 4Cl. Chemistry I 3 3 4Blood Banking 1 3 2Serology 3 3 4

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Intro. To Zoonotic Diseases 1 - 1Total 19Year III Sem. IICl. Chemistry II 3 3 4Epidemiology 3 - 3Malacology 1 3 2Mycology 2 3 3Virology 2 3 3Ricketsiology 2 3 3Total 18Year IV Sem. ICl. Chemistry III 2 3 3Quality Control 3 - 3Lab. Equipment 1 3 2Histological Techniques 1 3 2Laboratory Management 2 - 2Principles of Teaching 2 2 Integrated Lab. Practice - 9 3 Total 17Year IV Sem. IIComputer Literacy 1 - 1Research Methodology 1 - 1Clinical Practicum 10Graduation Paper - - 3Total 15

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Dilla Teachers Education and Health Science College P.O. Box 419 Dilla, Ethiopia Tel: 31-01-92

National Research Institute of Health and Nutrition School of Medical Laboratory Technology

P.O.Box 1242 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Tel 75-34-70 (71-72-73-74)

Jimma Institute of Health Science P.O. Box 378 Jimma, Ethiopia Tel: 07 11-14-57 Fax: 07 11 14 50

Gondar College of Health Science P.O. Box 196 Gondar, Ethiopia Tel: 08 11-01-74

Alemaya University of Agriculture P.O. Box 138 Dire Dawa, Harar, Ethiopia

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a. Licensing and Registration

Medical Laboratorians are registered and licensed by:

The Ministry of HealthAddis Ababa, Ethiopia

b. Professional Association

Ethiopian Medical Laboratory Technician Association P,O.Box 5657 Addis Ababa


All diplomas and degrees obtained from foreign institutions must be evaluated for equivalency by the Ministry of Education and considered for registration by the Ministry of Health before an applicant can practice.


Dilla College of Teacher Education and Health SciencesP.O. Box 419

Dilla, Ethiopia

or

Department of Laboratory TechnologyDilla College of Teacher Education and Health Sciences

P.O. Box 407Dilla, Ethiopia

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FIJI ISLANDS1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Ψprimary school sec. school

1 2 3 Diploma in Medical Technology **

Fiji School of Medicine 1 2 3 Certificate in Medical technology*

1 2 Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science/X-ray Technician ***

Note:Ψ Since 1989 13 years of education have been required for entry into the Diploma program* 1960-1988** Introduced in 1988*** Discontinued in 1992(All programs combine formal education and on-the-job training)


The basic educational pattern in Fiji follows the British system. Primary education begins when a student is 6 years of age and takes 8 years. It is followed by 5 years at the secondary level for a total of 13 years.

Until 1989 the minimum requirement for admission to Medical Technology/Laboratory Science programs was a pass at the end of the 4th year of secondary school (12 years of education) with an emphasis on Chemistry and Biology. Since 1989 13 years 0f study are needed. Until 1988 students with a 3-year pass (11 years education) could enter a Certificate program There are no Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D. programs offered.

Medical Laboratory Training began in Fiji in 1946 with on-the-job training for laboratory assistants. In time a Laboratory Technician Certificate was awarded these assistants but there were no formal lectures or courses until 1960, when a 3-year Certificate program in Medical Technology was introduced. Over the years these lectures became increasingly formal and in 1988 the program was upgraded to a Diploma level including additional hours of lectures and formal training. A program leading to the Certificate in Medical Laboratory/ X-ray Technician trained health workers for the outlying islands, but was also discontinued and replaced by the Diploma program All the educational programs have been and are at the Fiji School of Medicine.

On successful completion of the Diploma program a student qualifies as Technical Officer Class II and may go to New Zealand or Australia for further training.3. LEVELS AND LENGTH OF TRAINING

There is one program currently available in Medical Technology: a 3-year Diploma program. There are no Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D. programs offered.

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Prior to 1992

1) Certificate in Medical Laboratory/X-Ray Technician program Students with a 3rd year secondary school pass (11th grade) could take the 2-year program leading to a Certificate in Medical Laboratory/ X-ray Technician. This program was discontinued in 1992. All those holding this Certificate could be admitted into the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology program or into the Diploma in X-Ray Technology (according to their choice).

2) Certificate in Medical Technology Students with a 3rd year secondary school pass could take the 3-year program leading to a Certificate in Medical Technology. This program was phased out in 1988 when it was replaced by the Diploma program

Since 1992

Diploma in Medical Technology program Until 1989 the minimum entrance requirement to enter a Medical Laboratory Diploma program was 4 years of secondary education(12th grade) with passes in science oriented courses. Since 1989 5 years of secondary education (13th grade) have been required.


Education in Medical Laboratory Science is polyvalent and includes training in Clinical Chemistry, Immunohematology, Hematology, Microbiology and Histology/Cytology.

There are 4 levels of Medical Laboratory personnel:(1) Technical Officer Class II.(2) Technical Officer Class I.(3) Technical Officer Higher Grade.(4) Laboratory Superintendent.

The minimum requirement for any position in the field is a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology from a recognized institution at which point the student qualifies as Technical Officer Class II.

Those holding the discontinued Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology were allowed to do a research project of up to 60 hours and, following its successful presentation and satisfaction of the Fiji School of Medicine Examination Board, were awarded a Diploma in Medical Technology from the Fiji School of Medicine.

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6. CURRICULUM

Fiji School of MedicineCertificate Program (discontinued in 1988) compared to Diploma Programs introduced in 1988

Lecture Hours Practical Teaching Prac.CLS Prac. CLSSubjects Certificate Diploma Certificate Certificate Diploma Diploma

Year 1Anatomy 28 42 - - - -Physiology 28 42 - - - -Biochem. 28 42 - 4 6 24Lab.Tech. - 28 - - 28Hematology 28 28 6 hrs 4 6 20Microbio. 28 56 6 hrs 10 9 56Immuno-Hematology

- 28 6 5 20

Histo/Cyto - - - 4 3 -TOTAL 140 226 12 hrs 28 wks 28 wks 148Year 2Microbio. 40 64 6 8 9 56Hematology 24 32 4 6 6 24Immuno-Hem.

20 32 4 6 6 20

Biochem. 24 32 - 6 6 12Histo/Cyto. 20 24 - 6 6 12TOTAL 128 hrs 184 hrs 14 hrs 32 wks 33 wks 124 hrsYear 3Microbio. 20 32 4 8 9 56Hematology 20 32 4 6 6 40Immuno-Hem.

20 32 4 6 6 20

Biochem. 20 32 6 6 10Histo/Cyto 20 20 6 6 12TOTAL 100 hrs 148 hrs 12 hrs 32 wks 33 wks 138 hrs

+ 5 wks Hospital AttachmentTOTAL 368 hrs 598 hrs 38 hrs 92 wks 94 wks 410 hrs

-All Diploma graduates are required to do a research project in their own time that is equal to 60 hrs altogether.-Students spend an average of 15 hrs per week in the laboratory in the Diploma program and 20 hrs per wk in the Certificate program .

-Diploma students are “on call” once during the semester.

Grading It is mandatory that the student pass all subjects each year to go on to the next year. Passing grades are A+ through C. Failure is a D or E.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Fiji School of MedicinePrivate Mail BagSuva, Fiji


There are no professional societies or associations to control, evaluate or license members of the profession. The Professional Association is:

Fiji Medical Laboratory Technologist AssociationFiji School of MedicinePrivate Mail BagSuva, Fiji Islands


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Most foreign degrees are recognized by the Ministry of Health. Foreign students start at the same level as local qualified technologists unless they have some specialized training.


Fiji School of MedicinePrivate Mail BagSuva, Fiji Islands

Fax- 679 303469; 679 665423 (Lautoka Hosp.)

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GHANA


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Senior Secondary Certificate (from 1993)Primary Jr. Sec. Sr.

Sec.

Medical Lab. School, Korle-Bu Hospital 3 Med. Lab Gen’l Competency Cert.

University of Ghana 2 Med. Lab. Tech. Diploma*

*Admission requires 3 years work experience


Primary or basic education starts in Ghana when a child is 5 or 6. Until 1987, the system was largely based on the British model (6 years primary, 5 secondary, leading to the “O” level, followed by 2 years leading to the “A” level), but since 1987 a new structure has been adopted which is much closer to the United States’ model.

Medical Laboratory Technology (Science) education takes place at the School of Medical Laboratory Technology, Korle-Bu Hospital and requires a secondary school education for admission. The roots of the MLT programs can be traced as far back as 1908 when a small laboratory was established in a classroom in Jamestown to help fight plague. Relocated to the Korle-Bu Hospital compound, the laboratory became the Medical Research Institute in the 1920s and in the ensuing years grew and was modernized. In 1952 a commission to study the health needs of the Gold Coast recommended the establishment of four new clinical laboratories and the training of medical laboratory technicians on a formal basis, which was implemented in 1956. Those who successfully passed the end of training examination at the school were awarded certificates recognized by the British Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology and were qualified to study Medical Laboratory Technology in Britain.

Following independence in 1957, Ghana assumed more direct control of the medical laboratory technology training. The Ministry of Health, Ghana established the School of Medical Laboratory Technology. Today Medical Laboratory Technology programs last 3 years and lead to a Medical Laboratory Competency Certificate, which is awarded by the Ministry of Health. A review committee has recently recommended upgrading these certificate programs to the diploma level but this has yet to be acted on.

In 1990, as a result of a collaborative agreement between the Ministry of Health and the University of Ghana, a 2-year Diploma program in Medical Laboratory Technology was established at the University. Applicants to this program must hold a Medical Laboratory Competency Certificate and have three years practical experience in an approved hospital or research institution.

A degree program (B.S. Med. Tech.) to be run by the School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, is currently being planned


There are two levels of training in Ghana:

1) Medical Laboratory Technology-General Competency Certificate program. Medical Laboratory Technology-General Competency Certificate program is a 3-year program leading to a Medical

Laboratory General Competency Certificate. There is no specialization at this stage of training. The first year consists of theory and practical classes and is followed by two years rotation at various diagnostic laboratories at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.

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2) Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma programThe Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma program at the University of Ghana is a 2-year program leading to a Diploma of Medical Laboratory Technology. The program focuses on two disciplines (major and minor) and Laboratory Management.

Successful candidates are immediately employed by the Ministry of Health in state-controlled hospitals as Technical Officers and Technologists in the Civil Service. Opportunities for promotion in the service are poor.


1) Medical Laboratory Technology-General Competency Certificate Since 1993, applicants to the Medical Laboratory Technology General Competency Certificate program at Korle-Bu in Accra must have successfully completed 12 years schooling and have received the Secondary School Certificate. Prior to 1993 the student had to have the West African Certificate (WASC) or the West African General Certificate of Education with five science subjects at the Ordinary “O” level and/or passes in three science subjects at the “A” level or an aggregate of 24 credits for the Science Core and Elective subjects at the senior secondary level.

2) Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma programApplicants to the 2-year Diploma program in Medical Laboratory Technology at the University of Ghana must hold a Medical Laboratory General Competency Certificate and have three years practical experience in an approved hospital or research institution.


Medical Laboratory Technology (Technician) training at the General Competency Certificate level is polyvalent and includes Bacteriology, Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Histology, Parasitology and Transfusion Science.

Training at the diploma level is focused on two disciplines (major and minor) and Laboratory Management.

6. CURRICULUM

3-Year Medical Laboratory Technician CurriculumGeneral Competency Certificate- in 1987

Year 1 Subject Hour Chemistry 140 Parasitology 120 Bacteriology 120 Hematology 120 Transfusion Science 60 Histology 60 Anatomy & Physiology 60 Year 2 Weeks

Clinical Chemistry 8 Parasitology 8 Bacteriology 8 Hematology 8 Transfusion Science 8 Histology 8

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Year 3 WeeksClinical Chemistry 8

Bacteriology 8 Hematology 8 Transfusion Science 8 Histology 8 Urinalysis 8

3-Year Medical Laboratory Technician CurriculumGeneral Competency Certificate- Current

Year 1 Subject Credits Bacteriology 4 Hematology 4 Histology 2 Parasitology 6.5 Transfusion Science 2 Urinalysis 4.5 Clinical Chemistry 7 Total semester units 30

The number of hours spent in theory and in practical classes varies according to the subject. For example, Bacteriology would be 80 hours of theory and 40 of practical.

Years 2 and 3 are spent in rotation at various diagnostic laboratories of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. No credits are given for these rotations. However trainees without the satisfactory rotation requirement may be required to repeat the year.

2-Year Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma program

Year 1 Subject Credits Physiology 6 Cell Biology & Genetics 6 Chemistry 6 Introductory Mathematics 6 Introductory Biology 6 Total semester units 30

Year 2 Clinical work in: * Chemical Pathology 10 Hematology 10 Histology 10 Microbiology 10 Laboratory Management 10 Total semester units 30 * The student will choose two of the first four subjects one of which will be considered a “major ”the other a “minor.” Lab. Mgt. is required

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7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Medical Laboratory Technician General Competency Certificate:

School of Medical Laboratory TechnologyHealth Laboratory Services, Korle-Bu HospitalP.O. Box 300Korle-Bu, ACCRA-GHANATel: (233-21) 661046/661047/661048

Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma

University of Ghana Medical SchoolKorle-Bu Teaching HospitalKorle Bu, ACCRA-GHANA


a. Licensing /Certification /AccreditationThere is no licensing authority in Ghana for Medical Laboratory practice. There is government recognition of the Laboratory School but no regulatory body to monitor the quality of personnel entering the profession.

b. Professional AssociationsThe Ghana Medical Laboratory Scientists Association (AGMLS), it is not currently active.


There are no formal procedures that allow foreign trained medical Laboratory personnel to practice in Ghana. There are no specific arrangements that allow Ghana Medical Laboratory personnel to practice abroad.

For more information please contact the Association directly at:

Public Health and Reference LaboratoryP.O. Box 300 Korle-Bu ACCRA-GHANA

Tel: (233-21) 661046Fax: (233-21) 303963

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HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION, CHINA


Prior to 2004

HKCEE1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

HKAL12 13

Biomedical Science Section, HDBMS***School of Nursing, 1 2 BSc(Hons)BMS***The Hong Kong Polytechnic Univ. 1 2 MScHC with PgDHC option*

1 2 3

HC*School of Professional and 1 2Continuing Education, BScBIO*The University of Hong Kong 1.5

MMedSc**Faculty of Medicine, 1 2The University of Hong Kong

MScCMB*Division of Chemical Pathology, 1 2The Chinese Univ. of Hong Kong

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As of 2004

HKCEE1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

HKAL12 13

Biomedical Science Section, BSc(Hons)MLS***School of Nursing, 1 2 3The Hong Kong Polytechnic Univ. BSc(Hons)BMS***

1 2MScHC with PgDHC option*

1 2 3

HC*School of Professional and 1 2Continuing Education, BScBIO*The University of Hong Kong 1.5

MMedSc**Faculty of Medicine, 1 2The University of Hong Kong

MScCMB*Division of Chemical Pathology, 1 2The Chinese Univ. of Hong Kong

Note:* = Part-time program.** = Full-time or part-time program*** = Full-time programHC = Higher Certificate in Medical Laboratory ScienceHDBMS = Higher Diploma in Biomedical ScienceBSc(Hons)BMS = Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biomedical ScienceBScBIO = Bachelor of Science in Biological SciencesBSc(Hons)MLS = Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Medical Laboratory Science (subject to validation)MScHC = Master of Science in Health Care (Biomedical Science)PgDHC = Postgraduate Diploma in Health Care (Biomedical Science)MMedSc = Master of Medical SciencesMScCMB = Master of Science in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

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The above programs contribute to medical laboratory science education in Hong Kong.2. EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Hong Kong has a 6-years primary school, 5-years secondary school (HKCEE level) and 2-years upper secondary school (HKAL level).

As of 2003 the education in Medical Laboratory Science is offered at the higher education level. There is only one institution providing full-time training in Medical Laboratory Science at Bachelor degree level, which is the Biomedical Science Section, School of Nursing, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

The other Medical Laboratory Science training courses in Hong Kong are offered by three institutions, the School of Professional and Continuing Education, the University of Hong Kong, the University of Hong Kong, and the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Prior to 2004, The Biomedical Science Section, School of Nursing (formerly known as Department of Health Sciences), Hong Kong Polytechnic University (formerly known as the Hong Kong Polytechnic) offered a Higher Diploma in Biomedical Science and a top-up degree program BSc(Hons) in Biomedical Science. The University also organized a Master of Science and Postgraduate Diploma program in Health Care in 1995. In 2004, the higher diploma program will be replaced by a three-years full time Bachelor of Science (with Honours) in Medical Laboratory Science.

The School of Professional & Continuing Education at The University of Hong Kong offers the Higher Certification in Medical Laboratory Science and Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences.

The Master of Medical Sciences programme in the University of Hong Kong provides structured training in basic medical and clinical disciplines to enable postgraduates to embark on specialist studies, practice or teaching, and for career and personal development. The modules organized by Pathology Department have been accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science in U.K.

The Chinese University of Hong Kong provides a post graduated program specialized in Clinical Biochemistry and clinical molecular biology. This program replaced the previous master program, which is the Master of Science in Clinical Biochemistry.


Biomedical Science Section, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

i. Higher Diploma in Biomedical Science - (HDBMS) – the last student intake was in Sept 2003. This is a 2-year full-time post-secondary MLS course intended for students interested in pursuing a career in Medical Laboratory Science and registrable with Hong Kong Medical Laboratory Technologist Board, Council for Supplementary Medical Professions. The qualification is acceptable for employment as Medical Laboratory Technologist in local medical laboratories.

ii. Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biomedical Science - (BSc(Hons)BMS)This is a 2-year full-time top-up degree program intended to further expand the knowledge, technical ability, personal development and career prospects of the holders of the Higher Diploma in Biomedical Science of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (or related disciplines).

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iii. Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Medical Laboratory Science - (BSc(Hons)MLS) (subject to validation) This is a 3-year full-time undergraduate MLS course intended for students interested in pursuing a career in Medical Laboratory Science and registrable with Hong Kong Medical Laboratory Technologist Board, Council for Supplementary Medical Professions. The qualification is acceptable for employment as Medical Laboratory Technologist in local medical laboratories.

iv. Postgraduate Diploma/Master of Science in Health Care (Biomedical Science) - (MScHC)/(PgDHC)

This is a 3-years part-time evening modular post-graduate course in Health Care with a major in Biomedical Science. The maximum registration period is 6 years.

Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong

i. Master of Medical Science (MMedSc)

This is a 2-years part-time or 1-year full time modular post-graduate program in medical science.

School of Professional and Continuing Education, The University of Hong Kong

i. Higher Certificate Course in Medical Laboratory Science - (HC)This is a 2-year part-time program which furthers the professional education of the medical laboratory technicians who have already obtained basic training, e.g. HKU SPACE Ordinary Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science, or a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science from the HK Polytechnic University. Students meet 3 evenings a week.

ii. Bachelor of Science Degree Course in Biological Science – (BScBIO) This is a 1.5-year part-time evening degree course which provides a link between

academia and professionals for the graduates of higher diploma holders in various biological sciences or medical laboratory sciences.

Division of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

i. Master of Science in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (MScCMB)

This is a 2-years part-time post-graduate course in clinical biochemistry and molecular biology.



i. Higher Diploma in Biomedical Science (HDBMS)

(a) A-level in either Chemistry or Biology and HKCE with Grade E or above in 6 subjects including English, Chinese Language or Chinese Literature, Mathematics, and either Chemistry or Biology if not passed at A level.

(b) Diploma in Food Technology, Environmental Science or the equivalent.

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ii. Bachelor of Science (Honours) Degree Course in Biomedical Science (BSc(Hons)BMS)

(a) Higher Diploma in Biomedical Science or related disciplines.

iii. Bachelor of Science (Honours) Degree Course in Medical Laboratory Science (BSc(Hons)MLS) (subject to validation)

For Entry with HKALE Qualifications:

(a) E in HKALE Chinese Literature, or E in HKALE(AS-Level) Chinese Language & Culture, or (for applicants who have not taken Chinese since Secondary Five) D in a HKCEE language other than Chinese and English; AND

(b) E in HKALE(AS-Level) Use of English; AND

(c) E in two other HKALE subjects, or E in one other HKALE subject and two other HKALE(AS-Level) subjects (includes E in HKALE Biology and HKALE/HKALE (AS-Level) Chemistry); AND

(d) E in five HKCEE subjects (includes Mathematics or Additional Mathematics)

For those who are applying on the basis of other qualifications:

(a) An appropriate Higher Certificate (as specified in the individual programme entries where appropriate) from PolyU or the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education; OR

(b) An appropriate Diploma (as specified in the individual programme entries where appropriate) from PolyU or the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education, either with Credit or Pass at Merit Level in at least three Level III subjects.

Other Information:Applicants should have normal colour vision, as this is required for employment in a medical laboratory.

iv. Postgraduate Diploma/Master of Science in Health Care (Biomedical Sciences) - (PgDHC)/(MScHC)

(a) Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science from PolyU or a recognised institution. Relevant post-qualification working experience in Biomedical Science is preferred.

Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong

i. Master of Medical Science (Pathology) (MMedSc) (a) possess the relevant necessary requirements which comply with the GeneralRegulations;

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(b) hold a Bachelor degree with honours or the degrees of MBBS of this University, oranother qualification of equivalent standard from this University or from anotherUniversity or comparable institution accepted for this purpose;

(c) obtain a score of 550 or above in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), within two years before submission of the application, if seeking admission on the basis of a qualification from a University or comparable institution outside HongKong of which the language of teaching and/or examination is not English; and

(d) satisfy the examiners in a qualifying examination if required.


i. Higher Certificate Course in Medical Laboratory Science (HC) Applicants should have any one of:

(a) A UK Ordinary National Certificate or Ordinary Technical Education Council Certificate, or an HKU SPACE Ordinary Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science, or a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science from the HK Polytechnic University.

(b) HK “A” Level passes in 2 science subjects, one of which must be Chemistry, and 5 passes in HKCEE, including English and 2 science subjects. (c) A qualification deemed equivalent to (i) or (ii).

Applicants should normally:

be sponsored by their employers; have 2 years’ practical laboratory experience.

Single Specialist Subject Enrolment:

Applications are also accepted from Medical Laboratory Science graduates of the HTC and Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s Higher Diploma, who are interested in studying a second specialist subject. They will only attend lectures and practicals of the specialist subject during the course. Students will meet one evening per week depending on their choice of specialist subject.

ii. Bachelor of Science Degree Course in Biological Science - (BScBIO) Applicants should have any one of:

(a) a Higher Diploma in Food Science and Technology, Applied Biology / Biotechnology, Environmental Health, or Environment Technology, or Pharmaceutical Technology; and A Level passes in the Use of English and a Science subject (Higher Diploma holders who do not have the A Level passes are required to take the relevant bridging course(s)).

(b) a Higher Certificate or Higher Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science.



(a) graduated from a recognized university and obtained a Bachelor’s degree, normally with honours not lower than

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Second Class in a field related to life sciences or the degree of M.B. Ch.B. or equivalent. or

(b) graduated from an honours programme of a recognized university with a Bachelor’s degree in a field related to life sciences, normally achieving an average grade of not lower than “B” in undergraduate courses; or

(c) completed a course of study in a tertiary educational institution and obtained professional or similar qualifications equivalent to an honours degree in a field related to life sciences.

All students should fulfill the English Language Proficiency Requirement before they are admitted.


The programs of study for HDBMS and BSc(Hons)BMS are polyvalent and include Hematology and Serology, Histopathology and Cytology, Medical Microbiology and Clinical Chemistry. HC offer specialization in one of the above concentrations, in addition to enhancement in basic and applied science and healthcare

6. CURRICULUM


i. Higher Diploma in Biomedical Science (HDBMS) – last student intake was in Sept 2003

Table 1: The Programme curriculum for HDBMS.

Subject Credit Value

Year oneSemester onePhysiology 3Laboratory Techniques 3English for Academic Purposes 3Cell Biology 3Foundation Biochemistry 3General Education 3

Semester twoHaematology and Transfusion Science 6Clinical Chemistry 6Human Biochemistry 3Statistics 3

Total 36Year twoSemester oneCollege Chinese 3Immunology 3

Medical Microbiology 6Cellular Pathology 6

Semester twoClinical Training I - V 5 x 3 =

15Total 33

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Each credit translates to one hour per week of lecture or tutorial, or one and a half-hours laboratory session, or 2.3 hours per week of clinical training.

ii. Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Biomedical Science - (BSc(Hons)BMS)

As students entering the programme have varying Biomedical Science background, two study patterns have been designed to better support students’ study. All students are required to enroll in all common core subjects (Table 2);, however, holders of BMS Higher Diploma would progress in the programme by selecting electives in path A and non-BMS graduates need to select electives in path B (Table 2). Study patterns are developed such that upon completion of the programme all students would have attained similar academic requirements. Study patterns for both path A and B students are shown in Tables 3 and 4.

Table 2: Common core subjects and electives (Path A and Path B)

Higher Diploma in Biomedical Science / related field

Common Core Subjects

Molecular Biology in MedicineClinical ImmunologyAdvanced Biomedical Science I Advanced Biomedical Science II GeneticsEnglish in the Work Place / English for Academic Purposes #PathophysiologyResearch Methods and Protocol PreparationHonours Project A

Total 33

Elective Subjects – Students are requires to complete 15 credits

for BMS graduates for NON-BMS graduates

Path A Path BGeneral Education � Cellular Pathology * �Chinese Applied Psychology � Diagnostic Microbiology �Contemporary Issues and Trends in Health Care

� Introduction to Clinical Chemistry

�

Aging and Disease � Haematology & Transfusion Science *

�

Environment and Disease �Biostatistics �Virology �Laboratory Informatics Management �

For non-PolyU HD graduates

All subjects each carries 3 credits, except Cellular Pathology, Haematology & Transfusion Science each carries 6 credits.

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Table 3: Content of Programme (Students are required to complete 48 credits)

Study Pattern A (for BMS HD Graduates)Semester 1, Year 1 (12 credits)

Subject TotalContact hours

Credits(Level)

Molecular Biology in Medicine 42 3 (4)Clinical Immunology 42 3 (4)Elective subject 42 3 (3)Elective subject 42 3 (3)

Semester 2, Year 1 (12 credits)Advanced Biomedical Science I(Medical Microbiology) and (Cellular Pathology)

42 3 (4)

English in the Work Place 42 3 (3)Genetics 42 3 (4)Pathophysiology 42 3 (4)Semester 1, Year 2 (12 credits)Advanced Biomedical Science II(Clinical Chemistry) and (Haematology & Transfusion Science)

42 3 (4)

Research Methods & Protocol Preparation

42 3 (3)

Elective subject 42 3 (3)Elective subject 42 3 (3)Semester 2, Year 2 (12 credits)Honours Project 126 9 (4)Elective Subject 42 3 (3)

Table 4: Study Pattern B (for NON-BMS HD Graduates)Semester 1, Year 1 (15 credits)

Subject TotalContact hours

Credits(Level)

Elective Subject 42 3 (3)Elective Subject 42 3 (3)Elective Subject 98 6 (3)English for Academic Purposes 42 3 (3)Semester 2, Year 1 (12 credits)Advanced Biomedical Science I(Medical Microbiology) and (Cellular Pathology)

42 3 (4)

Genetics 42 3 (4)Elective Subject 98 6 (3)Semester 1, Year 2 (12 credits)Advanced Biomedical Science II(Clinical Chemistry) and (Haematology & Transfusion Science)

42 3 (4)

Research Methods & Protocol Preparation

42 3 (3)

Molecular Biology in Medicine 42 3 (4)Clinical Immunology 42 3 (4)Semester 2, Year 2 (12 credits)Honours Project 126 9 (4)Pathophysiology 42 3 (4)

ii. Bachelor of Science (Honours) Degree Course in Medical Laboratory Science (BSc(Hons)MLS) (subject to validation in March 2004)

The syllabus is summaries in Table 5 and Table 6.

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Table 5: Overview of the Programme and Progression Pattern Year Semester 1 Semester 2

1 Generic Anatomy Fundamentals of Public Health

Clinical Laboratory Instrumentation Immunology Cells in Health & Disease Physiology Laboratory Techniques & Safety General Education Professional & Personal Development1 Human Biochemistry

No. credits 15 15

Cumulative credits 30

2 Haematology: Concepts & Principles Microbiology: Concepts & Principles Interpretative and Practical Haematology Interpretative and Practical Microbiology Clinical Chemistry: Concepts and Principles Cellular Pathology: Concepts & Principles Interpretative and Practical Clinical Chemistry Interpretative and Practical Cellular

Pathology Molecular Biology in Medicine h Elective No. credits 15 15

Cumulative credits 60

Summer clinical attachment (12 weeks)

3 Laboratory Informatics & Management Research Project Pathophysiology Elective Introduction to Clinical Research Elective Human Genetics General Education or Elective

No. credits 15 15

Total credits: 90 (plus clinical attachment in summer between years 2 and 3)

The duration of a standard subject is fourteen weeks. Each subject has 3 credit value and 42 student contacts hours.

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Table 6: Inter-relationships between academic subjects (Level) in Programme; 90 academic credits in total; all subjects are worth 3 credits except for Project [9 credits]

Foundation Subjects General Education Core Subjects Electives(student takes 3)

Cells in Health & Disease

General Education x2 Cellular Pathology; Concepts & Principles

Health Protection and Disease Control

Physiology Interpretative and Practical Cellular Pathology

Scientific Aspects of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Clinical Laboratory Instrumentation

Clinical Chemistry; Concepts & Principles

Ageing & Disease

Human Biochemistry Interpretative and Practical Clinical Chemistry

Molecular Diagnosis of Human Disease

Laboratory Techniques and Safety

Haematology; Concepts & Principles

Virology

Fundamentals of Public Health

Interpretative and Practical Haematology

Point-of Care-Testing & Telemedicine

Generic Anatomy Microbiology; Concepts & Principles

The Environment & Disease

Interpretative and Practical Microbiology

Diagnostic Cytology

Pathophysiology Ethical & Legal Aspects in Health Care

Immunology Human Genetics Molecular Biology in Medicine Introduction to Clinical ResearchProfessional & Personal DevelopmentLaboratory Informatics & ManagementResearch Project*

21 credits 6 credits 54 credits 9 credits *9 credits

Note: Language Subjects

English and Chinese language subjects are non credit bearing and are not mandatory, but students are required to pass the exit language tests to graduate.

iv. Postgraduate Diploma/Master of Science in Health Care (Biomedical Science) - (MScHC)/(PgDHC)

It is a credit-accumulation scheme which can be completed within a maximum period of six years. A range of subjects specific to the biomedical science profession and a variety of subjects of common interest and value to all health care professionals are studied. The total effort required of student on a standard subject is 140 Student Hours of Effort (SHE). The duration of a standard subject is fourteen weeks. Each subject has 3 credit value and 42 student contacts hours.

For MSc2 Compulsory Subjects, 4 Core Biomedical Science Subjects, 1 Elective Subject and a researchbased Dissertation are required.

For PgD2 Compulsory Subjects, 3 Core Biomedical Science Subjects and 1 Elective Subject are required.

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Compulsory Subjects

i Concepts of Health & Health Care ii Research Methods & Data Analysis

Core Subjects

i Epidemiology ii Immunologyiii Molecular Technology in Clinical Laboratory iv Laboratory Managementv Advanced Laboratory Medicinevi Human Ageingvii Contemporary Issues in Health & Health Care

Electives

Having selected the requisite number of subjects from the core list, students may choose as elective subjects the remaining core subjects or other subjects available in this PgS HC, or other postgraduate schemes from the PolyU.

The recommended list of elective subjects from the Postgraduate Scheme in Business & Management to students of the PgS HC is:

i Managing Organisations and Peopleii Human Resource Management iii Health Care Economicsiv Health Services Managementv Health Services Planning & Evaluation

Dissertation

The dissertation carries a weight equivalent to 3 subjects (9 credit value) and represents around 420 hours of student effort. The dissertation must demonstrate in depth study, independent thought and critical examination of the subject area chosen. Students are encouraged to select a dissertation subject topic relevant to their personal and professional interest.

Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong

i. Master of Medical Science (MMedSc)

The curriculum shall extend over not less than one academic year of full-time study, or an equivalent period of part-time study, with a minimum of 400 hours of prescribed work.

All candidates will be required to attend the following induction course (10 hours):Biomedical Writing for Young Investigators Candidates will be required to take four modules (20 hours each) from the following 15 core modules. At least one module should be selected from either of the two main sections, i.e. Research Methods and Biological Systems.

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I. RESEARCH METHODS

(1) Laboratory Methods and Instrumentation (2) Statistical Methods (3) Epidemiology and Critical Appraisal (4) Imaging and Clinical Electrophysiological Techniques (5) Clinical Trials Research Methodology (6) Practical Bioinformatics (7) Evaluation of Health Programmes and Health Economics (8) Evidence Based Practice (15) Laboratory Animal Handling and Surgical Techniques

II. BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS

(9) Cell Biology (10) Genes and Gene Functions (11) Concepts of Human Physiology (12) Principles of Drug Action (13) Working with Genes and Proteins (14) Biological Basis of Common Health Problems

In addition, each candidate will be required to take one of the following 39 specialised fields of study. DEPARTMENT OF ANAESTHESIOLOGY

- Application of Basic Sciences in Anaesthesiology

DEPARTMENT OF ANATOMY- Current Topics in Morphological Sciences, Cell Biology and Neuroscience

DEPARTMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY*- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

CLINICAL TRIALS CENTRE- Clinical Trials Research Methodology

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY MEDICINE- Public Health- Administrative Medicine- Psycho-Oncology

CLINICAL TRIALS CENTRE AND DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY MEDICINE- Medical Statistics

DEPARTMENT OF MEDICINE- Cancer Genetics- Clinical Allergy- Geriatric Medicine

DEPARTMENT OF MICROBIOLOGY*- Medical Microbiology

DEPARTMENT OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY- Assisted Reproduction Technology (Laboratory)

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- Obstetric and Gynaecological Ultrasonography

DEPARTMENT OF ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY- Hand Surgery- Spine Surgery- Joint Replacement Surgery

DEPARTMENT OF PAEDIATRICS- Child Neurology, Development and NeuroHabilitation- Paediatric Cardiology- Paediatric Endocrinology

DEPARTMENT OF PATHOLOGY*- Pathological Sciences or Histopathology or Haematology or Immunology or Molecular Pathology (A candidate

is encouraged to select a major stream of study from one of the above subjects).

DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACOLOGY- Current Topics in Pharmacology

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSIOLOGY- Current Topics in Physiology

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHIATRY- Medical Psychology- Sleep Disorder

DEPARTMENT OF SURGERY- Breast Surgery- Colorectal Surgery- Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery- Gastroduodenal Surgery- Head and Neck Surgery- Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery- Neurosurgery- Oesophageal Surgery- Paediatric Surgery- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery- Surgical Endocrinology- Surgery in General- Urology- Vascular Surgery / Non-Invasive Vascular Laboratory Imaging Techniques

*related to medical laboratory science

The dissertation shall comprise a record of substantial experimental or clinically-based work on the project, or a review of the existing literature on the subject of the project, presented in a form suitable for publication. A minimum of 200 hours is required for the project.

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i. Higher Certificate Course in Medical Laboratory Science - (HC)

The course is divided into two parts, known as H1 (Year I) and H2 (Year II). Each part comprises 260 hours of coursework and laboratory practice. Two subjects, Biochemistry (80 hours) and Physiology (80 hours), are compulsory, while the third subject (100 hours) is elective. Students should choose from one of the four specialty subjects, namely Medical Microbiology, Clinical Chemistry, Hematology & Serology and Histopathology & Cytology. At the H2 stage, students must study the same specialty subject as at H1.

ii. Bachelor of Science Degree Course in Biological Science (BScBIO)

It is a 1.5-years course which is composed of two core modules including Dissertation and Research Skills, and two optional modules from Applied Immunology, Basic and Applied Molecular Genetics, Microbes and Diseases and Food Microbiology and Biotechnology. The student workload is summarized in Table 7.

Table 7: Student workload in different course.

Course Contact* Flexible* Credit ModulesDissertation 150 - 15 Core

Research Skills

150 - 15 Core

Applied Immunology

32 124 15 optional

Basic and Applied

Molecular Genetics

33 117 15 optional

Microbes and Diseases

33 117 15 optional

Food Microbiology

and Biotechnology

33 117 15 optional

* Student Workload [in Notionally Efficient Student Hours (NESH)]



The programme is divided into 22 topics in 4 semesters and a research project:

Clinical Biochemistry I (5 units)• Analytical Principles 1 (Spectrophotometry, Fluorimetry, Nephelometry, and Turbidimetry)• Laboratory Management• Toxicology and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring• Statistics and Research Methodology• Plasma Proteins, Immunoglobulin and Tumour Markers

Clinical Biochemistry II (6 units)• Analytical Principles 2 (Chromatography, Electrophoresis, and Electrochemistry)• Hypothalamus and Pituitary / Thyroid

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• The Adrenal Cortex and Adrenal Medulla• Reproductive Endocrinology, Pregnancy• Carbohydrate Metabolism, Diabetes, Hypoglycaemia• Clinical Enzymology; Central Nervous Systems & Muscle Disease

Clinical Biochemistry III (5 units)• Analytical Principles III (Radioimmunoassay and Related Techniques)• Lipoprotein Metabolism and Atherosclerosis• Fluids, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Homeostasis• Renal Function, Renal Calculi• Gastrointestinal, Liver, Biliary & Pancreatic Functions; Malabsorption

Clinical Molecular Biology (6 units)• Analytical Principles (Molecular Biology Techniques)• Clinical Molecular Genetics• Investigation of Genetic Disorders• Paediatric Clinical Biochemistry & Inborn Errors of Metabolism• Plasma DNA as a New Tool for Molecular Diagnosis• Principle and Applications of Flow Cytometry in Clinical Laboratory

Research Project (8 units)Students should complete a research project over 9 months resultingin submission of a thesis.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Biomedical Science SectionSchool of NursingThe Hong Kong Polytechnic UniversityHung HomKowloon, Hong Kong SAR. i Higher Diploma in Biomedical Science ii. Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biomedical Science iii. Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Medical Laboratory Scienceiv. Postgraduate Diploma/Master of Science in Health Care (Biomedical Science)

The University of Hong KongPokfulam RoadHong Kong SAR.

i. Master of Medical Science (Pathology)

School of Professional and Continuing EducationThe University of Hong KongPokfulam RoadHong Kong SAR.

i. Higher Certificate Course in Medical Laboratory Science ii. Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences*

*Organized in cooperation with Napier University, Edinburgh, UK.

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Division of Chemical PathologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatin, New TerritoriesHong Kong SAR.

i. Master of Science in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology


(a) Accreditation -The courses, BSc(Hons)BMS and MMedSc (Pathology), are accredited by Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). The BSc(Hons)MLS is pending approval for accreditation:

Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS, UK) 12 Coldbath Square London EC1R 5HL, England, UK

BSc(Hons)BMS has been accredited by IBMS for Associate Membership. MMedSc (Pathology) and MScHC has been accredited by IBMS for Fellowship.

(b) Registration -The qualifications, HDBMS and BSc(Hons)BMS, are recognized for Part II registration by the Hong Kong Council for Supplementary Medical Professions. The BSc(Hons)MLS is pending approval for registration. Holders of the HC with relevant experience are eligible to register in Part I of the Medical Laboratory Technologists in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Council for Supplementary Medical Professions Medical Laboratory Technologist Board 2/F Shun Feng International Centre 182, Queen Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

(c) Membership -The qualifications, HC, HDBMS and BSc(Hons)BMS, have been recognized by Hong Kong Institute of Medical Laboratory Science Limited (formerly Hong Kong Medical Laboratory Association) for Ordinary Membership:

Hong Kong Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences Limited OR c/o The Federation of Medical GPO Box 2722 Societies of Hong Kong, 4th Floor Central, Hong Kong Duke of Windsor Social Serv. Bldg 15 Hennessy Road Wan Chai, Hong Kong

(d) Professional Associations -

Hong Kong Institute of Medical Laboratory Science Limited (Formerly Hong Kong Medical Technology Association) (Founded 1966) c/o The Federation of Medical Societies of Hong Kong 4th Floor, Duke of Windsor Social Service Building 15 Hennessy Road Wan Chai, Hong Kong Tel & Fax: (852) 2819 6204 URL: hkimls.org

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BScBIO is validated by Napier University, UK.

For further inforamtion contact:.

Mr. Arnold S.Y. FooHong Kong Medical Technology Association

GPO Box 2722Central, Hong Kong

or

Dr Daniel CC Tam Hong Kong Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences Limited

(Formerly Hong Kong Medical Technology Association)Telephone and Fax: (852) 2819 6204

URL: http://hkimls.orgEmail: [email protected]

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ICELAND1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE

Prior to 1999“Studentspróf”

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 (Secondary school leaving Certificate)Comprehensive School Upper

SecondarySchool

The Icelandic College of Engineering and Technology

1 2 3 6 mos Medical Technologist*

* Formerly referred to as Medical Laboratory Technologist

As of 1999“Studentspróf”

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 (Secondary school leaving Certificate)Comprehensive School Upper

SecondarySchool

The Icelandic College of Engineering and Technology

1 2 3 4 Medical Technologist*


Iceland has a 10-year comprehensive school including elementary education and lower secondary school. This is followed by a 4-year upper secondary school program, leading to the stúdentspróf, or secondary school leaving certificate.

Education in Medical Technology is offered at the higher education level. There is only one institution providing training in Medical Laboratory Technology in Iceland, the Icelandic College of Engineering and Technology (Taekniskoli Islands).

Prior to 1999 the Technical College offered a 3-1/2-year program of theoretical and applied studies in its Division of Medical Laboratory Technology. As of 1999 The Department of Health Technology offers only 4-year studies in Medical Laboratory Technology and in Radiological Technology. Successful completion of the program leads to the Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology, which is the professional credential.


Medical laboratorians in Iceland are trained at the post-secondary level in one institution, the Icelandic College of Engineering and Technology:

Prior to 1999 1) Medical Technologist -- Prior to 1999 the 3 1/2-year program was offered at the University level, which took place at the Icelandic

College of Engineering and Technology (formerly referred to as the Technical College of Iceland) The program of study included practical experience in two of twelve electives at the Icelandic College of Engineering and Technology and at two divisions of five laboratories.

As of 1999As of 1999 the Department of Health Technology offers a 4-year program in Medical Laboratory Technology and one in Radiological Technology.


The basic requirement for all applicants to enter the Division of Medical Laboratory Technology at the Technical College is the “stúdentspróf,” the secondary school leaving examination (matriculation examination), which may be taken after completing 4 years of upper-secondary studies. The student taking the “stúdentspróf,” has completed a total of 14 years of primary and secondary schooling.

94 95


Prior to 1996 the training for Medical Laboratory Technologists in Iceland was polyvalent, with specialization during the third year of study in two major areas of the twelve available specializations.

As of 1996 the program began to change toward more general education. The aim is to assure that Medical Technologists are capable of working in all kinds of medical laboratories. The main fields that are covered are Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Microbiology and Histopathology. Currently students do their research projects and specialize in their field during one semester. Formerly specialization took place during the final three semesters.

6. CURRICULUM

Prior to 1999The 3 1/2-year course of study at the Icelandic College of Engineering and Technology offered both the theoretical and practical aspects of Medical Laboratory Technology. The first 2 years were identical for all students, with no electives, whereas in the third year the students selected two fields of specialization.

The first two school years were divided into 2 semesters and the third into three semesters. Each semester was approximately 15 weeks. The curriculum in the Division of Medical Laboratory was as follows.

Division of Medical Laboratory Technology Icelandic College of Engineering and Technology (1991)

First Year 1. Sem. Credit 2. Sem. Credit hr/wk units hr/wk unitsAnatomy 3 2 2 2 Physiology 2 2 3 2 General Chemistry 8 5 1 1 Organic Chemistry 5 3 Chemistry-Laboratory Course 4 2 4 2 Biochemistry 3 2

Physics-Instrumentation 6 3 6 2Mathematics 4 2Ethics 2 2 Total 27 16 26 16

Second Year 1. Sem Credit 2. Semester hr/wk units hr/wk Biochemistry 3 2 Biochemistry-Laboratory course 4 2 Pharmacology 2 2Pathology (morbid anatomy) 3 2 Cytology-Cytogenetics l-2 2 Histopathology -Laboratory course 4 3 Hematology -Blood Bank Serology 3 3 Immunology 2 2 Hematology- Laboratory course 4 3 Bacteriology-Virology 4-5 4 Microbiology - Laboratory course 4 3 Clinical Chemistry 4 3 Nuclear medicine 2 2 Clinical chemistry- Laboratory course 4 3 Medical Laboratory Technology 6 2 6 2 Mathematics-Statistics 4 2Total 30 21 30 21

Third year (3 semesters)

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Students selected two electives for the next three semesters. The three semesters were worth a total of 51 credit units, that is, 32 credit units for practical training and 14 credit units of theoretical study, plus 5 units for a final paper (project). Study hours are 40 hours/week. Each elective is completed in 5 1/2 months.

The following electives were offered: 1. Clinical Chemistry 2. Hematology 3. Blood Group Serology (not available since 1989) 4. Immunology 5. Virology 6. Bacteriology 7. Clinical Physiology 8. Radioisotopes in Biological Systems 9. Histopathology 10. Cytology (not available since 1989)11. Cytogenetics12. Electron microscopy (not available since 1989)

The five Medical Laboratories approved for elective training in the last three semesters were: 1) The City Hospital in Reykjavik 2) The National Hospital in Reykjavik 3) The University of Iceland, Dept. of Pathology 4) The Blood Bank of Iceland in Reykjavik 5) The University of IcelandAs of 1999

As of 1999, the first 3.5 years are identical for all students, providing them with a broad general education. The first three semesters concentrate on basic education courses. Gradually the courses become more specifically oriented toward medical technology until finally the student begins work on a research project with specialization taking place in the final semester.

Each school year is divided into 2 semesters. Each semester comprises 15 weeks of study plus 2 weeks of examinations. Each school year provides 30 credits.

Division of Medical Laboratory TechnologyCurriculum 1999

First Year Credits Second Year Credits

Physics-Instrumentation 7 Biochemistry 5Cell Biology 1 Medical Laboratory Technology 3Chemistry 11 Statistics 4Biochemistry 3 Pharmacology 2Anatomy - Physiology 8 Ethics 1

Clinical Chemistry 13Immunology 2

Third Year Credits Fourth Year CreditsHematology 11 Pathology 11Genetic Analysis 4 Ethics-Administration 4Microbiology 11 Final Project 15Genes 4

GRADING: Prior to 1991 grading was based on the following grades: A- Excellent B- Good C- Satisfactory D- Not Satisfactory E- Failing M- Transfer of credit--from another school The lowest passing grade was C.

After fall 1991 grades were awarded on a linear scale 1-10 with the following grade values:

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9-10 A 7-8 B 6 C 5 D 0-4 F

Prior to 1996 the minimum for passing was 6, but a student could graduate with the grade 5 in no more than 4 modules (subjects) totaling no more than 8 credits. In 1996 the minimum passing was changed to 5.5.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Division of Medical Laboratory TechnologyIcelandic College of Engineering & TechnologyHofdabakka 9112 ReykjavikIceland


Professional Recognition for the current 4-year B.Sc. is the same as previously given to the graduates of the 3.5-year program. Graduates receive a B.Sc. and the title “Medical Technologist” as defined by the Ministry of Health in Iceland. They are eligible for membership in the Icelandic Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists, which holds association membership in the Scandinavian Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists (NML), and the International Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists (IAMLT).

a. Accreditation The College is under the Control of the Government.

b. Licensure - The Ministry of Health grants licensure in Iceland to Medical Technologists who have graduated from the Icelandic College of Engineering and Technology. Foreign graduates also are granted their licensure from the Ministry after consultation with the Technical College of Iceland and the Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists regarding the equivalency of their education.

c. Certification - The Certificate as Medical Technologist is awarded by the Icelandic College of Engineering and Technology.

d. Professional Association - The professional association for Medical Technologists is:

Meinataeknafélag Íslands (Icelandic Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists) Lagmúl í 7 IS-108 Reykjavik Iceland Tel: 354-588 9770 Fax: 354-588 9239 e-mail: [email protected]



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For professional reciprocity, see reciprocity section for each individual country.

The Ministry of Health, following consideration of the equivalency of their education by the Icelandic College of Engineering and Technology and the Icelandic Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists, licenses foreign graduates in Iceland.

For further information contact the Icelandic Association directly at:www.bhm.is/mti

[email protected]

http://www.bhm.is/mti


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IRAN

1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINEPre - 1988:


primary school middle high schoolschool

university /college entry

Technician1 2.5* Medical Laboratory Science

Technologist**1 2 3 4* 4.5* B.S. in Medical Technology

(BSMT)

5 6 Master of Science

7 8 Ph.D.Post - 1988:


primary school middle high schoolschool

university /college entry

Technician 1 2* Medical Laboratory Science

Technologist**1 2 3 4* 4.5* B.S. in Medical

Technology (BSMT)(Restarted from 1995)

5 6 Master of Science***

7 8 Ph.D.***Note:* = In-hospital training during final semesters (12 credits for Technician; 16 credits for Technologist).** = The Technologist program was discontinued in 1988 but was reintroduced in 1995.***= Master of Science and Ph.D. programs in some areas are still available for former B.S. Medical Technologists (eg. at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences).

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In Iran the primary/secondary level education sequence, leading to high school graduation, takes 12 years (5 years in primary, 3 in secondary, and 4 in high school). To attend primary school, the student must be 6 years old (there is an optional pre-school for those who are 5 years of age).

The first formal practice of Medical laboratory Science began with establishment of the Pasteur Institute in 1920, the Razi Institute in 1924 and the Institute of Health in 1936. The Institute of Health, however, was the first institution to formally organize the training of persons to do laboratory diagnoses of hospital patients or physician referrals. In 1939, following reform of the Tehran Medical School, workers from the Institute of Health were retained to staff laboratories in the Tehran Medical School. At this point the Institute was renamed the Central Laboratory of the Ministry of Health. Shortly thereafter, with the establishment of the Institute of Malariology at the Medical School, brief training courses (4 months) were introduced. Such courses were eventually expanded to a year. Initially, only doctors of medicine, pharmacy or veterinary medicine were admitted to the program, which prepared them to establish their own medical laboratories.

By 1948, the specialized courses in Laboratory Science required 2 years training for physicians and 3 for pharmacists and veterinarians. At this time the Ministry of Health introduced a training program for assistant technicians that took one year and required only a high school diploma for admission. Some universities, like Tehran University, also conducted a 2-year course for training technicians that allowed students to take certain technology training courses leading to a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology (B.S.M.T.).

In 1968, Tabriz University, with the assistance of the Ministry of Health, introduced a program in Medical Laboratory Science. This education was offered at 3 levels: 4 years were required for a B.S., an additional year for an M.S. and an additional 3 years for a Ph.D.

Shortly thereafter, educators decided that only students who had received basic Medical Laboratory Science training should continue into higher education in that field, and in 1971 Tehran University discontinued its special courses for doctors of medicine, pharmacy and veterinary science. In the meantime 5 other universities (Isfahan or Esfahan, Jondi-Shapoor, Mashad, Pahlavi University and Tabriz University) established a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science program, with some adding the Master’s level program in 1979. At this point, Medical Laboratory Science education was standardized to 3 levels:(1) Technician training, requiring 2 to 2.5 years after high school;(2) Medical Technologist training, requiring 4 to 4.5 years after high school and leading to the B.S. in Medical Technology (B.S.M.T.); followed by the(3) Master of Science or a Ph.D. program in a specialty such as Bacteriology, Parasitology or Biochemistry, and the Professional Doctorate in Clinical Laboratory Science.

Following the Iranian revolution in 1979, however, universities were closed and did not open again for 2 to 4 years depending on the institution. Formal courses leading to the B.S.M.T. were reintroduced in 1985 when the Islamic Azad University, was established. The courses were modeled on those offered before the revolution and produced several hundred B.S. degrees in Medical Laboratory Science but were discontinued after 3 years, when the current programs were put in place.

The current program in Medical Laboratory Science consists of a 2-year training course for technicians, offered by the Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science at the Medical School at the universities. Those who already hold the B.S. in Medical Laboratory Technology can take the Master of Science examinations in Bacteriology, Biochemistry, Immunology, Mycology, Parasitology, Toxicology, and Virology, and more recently Hematology. Early in the 1990s there was a hiatus in program offerings. As of 1991 Ph.D.’s in Medical Laboratory Science were not allowed to establish clinical laboratories and only pathologists (clinical and anatomical) could do so. These restrictions are currently under reconsideration.

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Pre-1988Before the cultural revolution in 1979, and for a brief period between 1984 and 1988, Iran provided Medical Laboratory Science training at three levels:(1) Technician -2 to 2.5 years at the tertiary level for a total of 90 credits including 12 credits of practical training. A technician could advance to a technologist level with an additional 2 to 2.5 years of study.

(2) Technologist - B.S.M.T.4 to 4.5 years at the tertiary level for a total of 146 credits including 16 credits of practical experience at a hospital laboratory.

(3) Master’s and Doctoral Level -2 to 4 years after receiving the Technologist qualification.

Post-1988(1) Technician -Only the 2-year Technician program was available, between 1991 - 1995.

(2) Technologist - B.S.M.T.This program, which was phased out from 1985 and discontinued in 1988, was reintroduced in Fall 1995.

(3) Master’s and Doctoral Level -2 to 4 years after receiving the Technologist qualification. Master of Science, a Professional Doctorate and even Ph.D. programs in some areas are still available for former B.S. Medical Technologists (eg. at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences).

Directly following graduation, the male student must fulfill 2 years mandatory military service, and then must serve at least 1 year for the Ministry of Health. Thereafter, those who have successfully completed any of the Medical Laboratory Science programs, may work in a hospital or private laboratory, university laboratory or in the laboratories of equipment supply companies.


Admission to the Technician courses and the Technologist program requires a high school diploma and the university/college entry examination. Admission to graduate programs requires success in examinations following the Technician/Technologist programs.


Because of the many past educational programs there are still a variety of differently trained Medical Laboratory personnel in Iran. These personnel are: those trained as Technicians and Technologists, those holding the Masters or Doctorate, assistant technicians (those who took part many years ago in short courses offered at institutes) and experimental technicians (those with no formal training).;

Technicians do most of the routine work under the supervision of a technologist or experienced technician. Technologists do specialized work or may function as Chief Technologist in a laboratory. Those with the Master’s degree do advanced tests in their specialty or work as supervisors and/or head of a department. Those with the Ph.D. serve as directors, administrators or managers of medical laboratories. Assistant technicians and experimental assistant technicians usually work as phlebotomists (or do simple tasks such as smear preparations, staining, culturing of specimens and assisting a colleague with higher qualifications).

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6. CURRICULUM

Certification is based on credits for subjects (C.P.S.)

Credits for Technicians (91 credits)Subject CreditsGeneral subjects (English, Persian Literature, Religious Studies, Sports)Basic subjects (Anatomy, Physiol., Physics, Gen. Chem.)Main subjects (Gen. Biochem., Lab. Physics, Basic Lab., Histology, Basic Pathology)Specialized subjects (Microbiol., Hemat., Clin. Chem., Blood Banking, Parasit.,Serology)Practical training ( in the above specialized subjects)

1818172612

Credits for B.S. Program (B.S.M.T.)Subject Credits

Theory(36 hrs/sem.)

CreditsPracticals

(72 hrs/sem.)General subjectsIslamic Text 1Islamic Text 2Islamic Behavior 1Islamic Behavior 2QuranIslamic HistoryIslamic Revolution of IranLiterature 1Literature 2Foreign Language 1Foreign Language 2Sport 1Sport 2Total

2 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

21

1 1 2

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Subject CreditsTheory

(36 hrs/sem.)

CreditsPracticals

(72 hrs/sem.)Basic subjects:General PhysicsApplicable PhysicsBiologyAnatomyPhysiologyGeneral ChemistryBio-StatisticsGeneral BiochemistryGeneticsPsychology

2 1 2 2 3 2 2 2 2 2

1 1 1 1 1 1

1

Total 20 7Main Subjects:First AidEpidemiology & SanitationFood Chemistry & SanitationLaboratory Pre-requisitesResearch Methods & Bibliography

1 3 1 1 1

1

1 1

Total 7 3Specialized Subjects:Clinical Biochemistry 1Clinical Biochemistry 2EndocrinologyHistologyPathologyNuclear Physics (Medicine)ParasitologyMycologyVirologyImmunology & SerologyBlood BankingPharmacologyForensic MedicineLaboratory ManagementGeneral MedicineAdvanced Foreign LanguagePhotography & TypingSeminarApplication of Computers in Lab

3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 2 1 2 4 2 1 1 0.5

2 2

1 1

2 1

2 2

1

1

0.5Total 49.5 22.5

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Subject CreditsTheory

(36 hrs/sem.)

CreditsPracticals

(72 hrs/sem.)Clinical Training (in Hospitals):Clinical Training 1Clinical Training 2Clinical Training 3Clinical Training 4Practicing in Hospitals

3 3 3 3 4

Total 16

Credits for Masters (from Technician’s Degree)Subject CreditsGeneral subjects (as in Technician’s program but more advanced)Basic subjects (Anatomy, Physiology, Statistics and Biochemistry)Main subjects (*Physiopathology, Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, Lab. Practice)Specialized subjects (Clin. Chem., Hemat.,Micro., Immun., Serol., BB, Parasit., Mycol.)Seminar & Thesis (selected by the student from specialized topics)Practical Training (Micro.,Hem., BB, Sero., Cl. Chem., Parasit., Immun., Myco., Cytol.

29238621024

Credits for Masters (from Technologist Degree)Subject CreditsGeneral subjects (Physio., Anat., Sp. Eng., Religious Studies)Specialized subjects (*Physiopathology, Hemat., BB, Serology, Microbiology)Seminar & Thesis (selected by the student & approved by teachers and advisors)Practical Training (Microb., Hem., BB, Serol., Cl. Chem., Parasit., Mycol., Cytology)

2033816

* Physiopathology includes Physiol. (Credits 4), Pathology (Credits 8), Infectious Dis., Pediatrics, Renal, Heart, GI, Neurology, Lung, Rheumatology & Blood Diseases ( as in the MD program)

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Ahwaz University of Medical SciencesGolestan RoadAhwaz, IRANTel: +98 (61) 833-936. Fax: +98 (61) 35200

Esfahan University of Medical SciencesDarvazeh ShirazEsfahan, IRANTel: +98 (31) 685-141. Fax: +98 (31) 685-145ORIsfahan University of Medical SciencesHezar-Jerib AvenueIsfahan, IRANTel: +98 (31) 891-2505. Fax: +98 (31) 236014

Hamadan University of Medical SciencesAbbas Abad BoulevardHamadan, IRANTel: +98 (81) 220-773. Fax: +98 (81) 220-683

Iran University of Medical Sciences

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Corner of Gandhi and 20th AvenueP.O. Box 1587-6171Tehran, 15179, IRANTel: +98 (21) 688-191. Fax: +98 (21) 801-7399

Islamic Azad UniversityP.O. Box 19585-14669th Nayastan, Pasdaran AvenueTehran, IRANTel: +98 (21) 2588168. Fax: 98 (21) 249606

Kermanshah University of Medical SciencesSorkheh Lizeh,Kermanshah, IRANTel: +98 (431) 58945. Fax: +98 (431) 708-094

Mashad University of Medical SciencesUniversity StreetP.O. Box 91735-588Mashad, IRANTel: +98 (51) 8013-006. Fax: +98 (51) 8013-007

Shahid Behesti University of Medical ScienceShahid Chamran HighwayEvin, P.O. Box 412919395 Tehran, IRANTel: +98 (21) 299-691. Fax: +98 (21) 296-052

Shiraz University of Medical SciencesCollege Paramedical SciencesZand AvenueShiraz, IRANTel: +98 (71) 332-366. Fax: +98 (71) 59317

Tabriz University of Medical Sciences29th Bahman Avenue, PoorsinaTabriz, IRANTel: +98 (41) 369-190. Fax: +98 (41) 342-761

Tehran University of Medical SciencesEnghelab St.Quds StreetTehran, IRANTel: +98 (21) 640-5666. Fax: +98 (21) 641-6537


Higher education is regulated by written regulations and is supervised and controlled by the Ministry of Health. This Ministry however, does not re-evaluate degrees or certification, and successful passage of examinations in the universities is accepted as qualification for practicing as a Medical Laboratory Technician or Technologist. Recent information indicates that there is an Iranian Association of Medical Laboratory Science. We have not yet been able to confirm the address.

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A board within the Ministry of Higher Education evaluates the degrees of all students trained abroad taking into account the university attended and the credits earned. If, for example, a student has a B.S. or M.S. from a qualified university with good grades, the degree may be considered as equivalent to a B.S. or M.S. in Iran (Factors taken into consideration in determining equivalency include length of study, credits earned and program content).

For further information please contact:

Shiraz University of Medical Science Tel: 98(71)335-023College of Paramedical Sciences

Meshkin Fem. Ave.Shiraz, IRAN

or

Clinical LaboratoriesLemuel Shattuck HospitalJamaica Plain, MA 02130

U.S.A.Tel: (617) 522-8110Fax: (617) 524-9779

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JAMAICA


1973-1982

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 School Leaving Certificate Caribbeanprimary secondary Examination Council (CXC)/General

Certificate in Education “O” Level (G.C.E.)

secondary schools or community colleges 12 13 General Certificate in Education “A” Level (G.C.E.)

1 2 Certificate in Medical Technology

1 Diploma in Medical Technology(Specialization)

Since 1983

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 School Leaving Certificate Caribbeanprimary secondary Examination Council (CXC)/

GeneralCertificate in Education “O” Level (G.C.E.)

secondary schools or community colleges 12 General Certificate in Education “A” Level (G.C.E.)

1 2 3 B.Sc. in Health Science with Medical↑ Medical Technology Option*↑

3 General Diploma in Medical Technology

1.5 Diploma with Specialization in Cytology (CASMET)

West Indies College 1 3 B.Sc. Med. Tech.**

* Modular program conducted in 3 modules (over 3 summers).** Was a 3.5-year Diploma program until 1992

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Formal Medical Laboratory training programs began in Jamaica in 1973 when the College of Arts, Science and Technology ( renamed the University of Technology, Jamaica, in 1995) began offering 2-year certificate programs followed by a period of internship at the Government Medical Laboratory. Technologists who wished to specialize would then continue with one year of practical instruction, leading to a Diploma examination given by the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists and a Specialist Diploma. In 1983 the program was upgraded to a 3-year Diploma course leading to a General Diploma. However, because Cytology is taught only in the final year of the program, a specialized Diploma is still offered in this area. The Cytology specialization Diploma requires 18 months of study and is administered by the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists. During this same period the West Indies College was also offering a 3.5 year program leading to a Diploma in Medical Technology.

A B.Sc. in Health Sciences with a Medical Technology option was introduced in 1988 at the College of Science and Technology (now U-Tech.) This is a modular program conducted in 3 modules over 3 consecutive summers and offers specialization in Hematology and Microbiology. In 1992 West Indies College upgraded its Diploma program to a B.Sc. in Medical Technology.

A 2-year Certificate in Medical Laboratory course was also drafted at the Faculty of Pharmacology at the University of the West Indies, Mona Jamaica, but never instituted.


1) General Diploma in Medical TechnologySince 1983 basic training for Medical Technologists has been provided by a 3-year Diploma program in Medical Technology, which is offered at the University of Technology (Formerly the College of Science and Technology.) Those with the Diploma perform routine bench work with some specialized techniques.

2) Diploma with Specialization in Cytology The Cytology specialization diploma requires 18 months of study after the General Diploma and is administered by the

Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists.

3) Modular B.Sc. in Health Science with Medical Technology option.A modular degree program conducted in 3 modules over 3 summers is provided by the University of Technology (U Tech). It is a modular program conducted in 3 modules (each approximately 12 weeks duration), delivered over 3 consecutive summers. During the inter-modular periods, students are given work assignments and a research project which forms part of the evaluation process. Personnel with the degree perform bench work but also assume supervisory functions.

4) Bachelor of Science in Medical TechnologyA 4-year full-time B.Sc. in Medical Technology is offered at the West Indies College, Manchester, Jamaica. The program, which replaced a 3.5-year Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology program, took in its first students in 19


1) General Diploma in Medical TechnologyAdmission to the 3-year General Diploma in Medical Technology program requires five GCE “O” level or CXC passes in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and one other subject, preferably a science or technical subject or the equivalent.

2) Diploma with Specialization in Cytology Admission to the Diploma with Specialization in Cytology requires 18 months of study after the General Diploma and

is administered by the Caribbean Association of medical Technologists.

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3) B.Sc. in Health Science with Medical Technology Option a) Admission to the B.Sc. Health Science with Medical Technology Option program requires the General Certificate in

Education (G.C.E) at “A” level. Students should have science subjects (This examination is U.K. based) ,orb) University of Technology, Jamaica, General Diploma in Medical Technology or a specialized Diploma from the

Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists (CASMET) plus 2 years work experience orc) Post-Diploma Certificate

4. B.Sc. Medical Technology at West Indies CollegeAdmission to the 4-year B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory Technology program requires five GCE “O” level or CXC passes in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and one other subject preferably a science or technical subject or the equivalent. This B.Sc. program includes 3 years of pre-clinical and 1-year of clinical studies. Admission to the clinical year is conditional on acceptable professional, academic and practical performance.


Training at the Diploma level is polyvalent, covering Microbiology, Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Blood Banking, Immunology and Histology with an introduction to Cytology. The B.Sc. in Medical Technology at West Indies College is also polyvalent.

The modular B.Sc. in Health Science with Medical Technology option gives the student the opportunity to specialize in 2 Medical Technology options, Hematology or Microbiology and is, therefore, not polyvalent.

110 111

6. CURRICULUM

3-year General Diploma program Medical Laboratory TechnologyUniversity of Technology

Year 1Subject Hours Lab. hrs. CreditsHuman Biology 50 50 4Inorganic & Physical Chemistry 90 40 7 Organic Chemistry 60 10 4Communication 3 75 5Laboratory Techniques* 25 25 2Medical Terminology Ethics 25 2Orientation to Medical 50 50 4 Technology Physics 50 50 4Work Study** 50 4 36 Year 2Biochemistry 50 50 4Biostatistics & Research 38 3 MethodsClinical Chemistry 1 50 75 5Hematology 1 50 50 4Histopathology 1 25 50 3Immunology+ 30 2Immunohematology 1 25 25 2Medical Laboratory Instrumentation 25 50 3 Medical Microbiology 1 50 150 6 32 Year 3 Clinical Chemistry 2 50 75 5Computer Fundamentals 50 50 5Hematology 2 50 50 4Histopathology 2 50 50 4Immunohematology 2 25 50 3Laboratory Administration 25 3Microbiology 2 25 150 6Clinical Experience & Project term paper 150 - 30*Lab-Lecture**Non-credit elective+ Half-year courseCourse EvaluationMost subjects are weighed on a 50/50 basis for course work and final examinations. The discipline subjects, however, carry a 45/55 weight for course work and final examinations respectively.

Grading:Pass requires: -a minimum of 45% in final theoretical papers and 50% in final practical papers. -a satisfactory pass in course work (45%) -an overall grade of 50% minimum. -a satisfactory level of attendance during the year.

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B.Sc. Health Science with Medical Technology Option -3 modules over 3 consecutive summers University of Technology

Summer 1 -Module -(12 weeks). Interdisciplinary CoursesSubject Hours Principle and Organization of Management 45Health and Health Care 45Computer Fundamentals and Data Processing 45Principles of Epidemiology 30Research Methods and Statistics 45Sociopsychology 40Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Seminars 15 265

Summer 2 -Module II-(12 weeks). Optional Tracts/ Area of Concentration A. Health Management Option Human Resource Management 45Health Planning 45Health Economics 45Financial Management 45Informational, Operations & Supplies Management 60Health Management Seminar 15 255ORB. Education OptionEducation Psychology 45Educational Planning 45Instructional Presentation 90Educational Measurement & Evaluation 45Education Seminar 15 240

Summer 3- Module III (12 weeks) Advanced Specialty Option Medical Technology- Hematology Option Hematology Theory 75Hematology- Clinical Practice 45Transfusion Science-Theory 45Transfusion Science- Clinical Practice 30Hemostasis 45Seminar 15Research Project - 255

Medical Technology- Microbiology OptionParasitology & Virology 90DNA Technology 45Food Microbiology & Mycology 65Immunodiagnostic Techniques 45Seminar 15Research project - 260

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4-Year Bachelor of Science in Medical TechnologyWest Indies College

Year 1 Credits CreditsSubject Semester 1 Semester 2. Freshman Seminar 1 -- Medical Terminology & 2 -- Intro to Health Prof.Intro to Med. Lab. Tech -- 1Christians Beliefs I, II 2 2Health and Physical Education -- 2Freshman Composition I , II 3 3General Chemistry I,II 4 4Foundations of Biology I,II 4 4 Total 16 16Year 2 Intro. to Computer Science 3 -- Music Elective -- 2Math Elective 3 --Oral Communication 3 --Clinical Microscopy -- 1Daniel or Revelation -- 2Gift of Prophecy 2 --Organic Chemistry I, II 4 4Principles of Immunology/Serology -- 3Medical Orientation & Phlebotomy 1 --Genetics --_ 4 Total 16 16Year 3 Concepts of Christian Education 2 -- Caribbean Perspectives 3 --Principles of Psychology 3 --Life Teachings of Jesus 3 --Fundamentals of Hematology & Hemostasis -- 4 Fundamentals of Microbiology -- 4Fundamentals of Immunohematology 2 --Fundamentals of Clinical Chemistry & Instrumentation -- 4Cytology/Histology -- 2Cell Biology/ Histology 4 -- Laboratory Management -- 1Medical Technology Seminar -- 1 17 16Year 4 (Clinical Year)Hematology & Hemostasis 4 --Clinical Immunology/Serology 1 --Clinical Microbiology 4 --Immnohematology 3 --Chemistry 4 -- 16

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Clinical Rotation (six months) Hematology & Hemostasis Practicum -- 5Clinical Immunology/Serology Practicum -- 2Clinical Microbiology Practicum -- 5Immunohematology Practicum -- 3Clinical Chemistry Practicum -- 6Clinical Microscopy Practicum -- 3Cytology/Histology Practicum -- 3 Independent Research Project -- 1-2 Total 26-27 Of the above credits: Core Requirements = 65 - 66; Required Cognates and Electives = 32; General Education Requirements = 38 credits. Total of 135 - 136 semester credits.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

University of Technology, Jamaica(Science Department)237 Old Hope Rd.Kingston 6JAMAICATel: (809) 927-1680 (through 1688) Fax: (809) 927-1925

West Indies CollegeMandeville, JAMAICA Tel: (809) 962-2204-6 Fax (809) 962-0075


a) LicensureA license to practice Medical Technology is issued following registration with the Council for Professions Supplementary to Medicine. The license is renewable annually.

b) Registration

Registration with the Council for Professions Supplementary to Medicine permits entry into professional employment in government and private laboratories.

Graduates of the B.Sc. program at the University of Technology must fulfill a 1-year internship program prior to registering. Students with the B.Sc. in Medical Technology at West Indies College are eligible to register with the Council for Professions Supplementary to Medicine.

The Council of Professions Supplementary to Medicine Ministry of Health 10 Caledonia Ave. Kingston 5, Jamaica

c) Accreditation Programs in MLS are accredited by the Council.

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To practice as a medical technologist in Jamaica a candidate must possess appropriate academic qualifications from an approved institution. The Council of Professions Supplementary to medicine in consultation with the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists and the University of Council of Jamaica decides if an institution is approved.


Science DepartmentUniversity of Technology, Jamaica237 Old Hope Road, Kingston 6

JAMAICATel: (809) 927 1680-8 Fax: (809) 927 1699

or

ChairpersonDepartment Medical technology

West Indies CollegeMandeville P.O.

ManchesterJamaica, West Indies

Tel: (809) 962-2204-7 8864-7 Fax: (809) 962- 0075

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KUWAIT


Higher Secondary School Certificate1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9Elementary School Secondary School

Kuwait University 1 2 3 Bachelor of Science inMedical LaboratorySciences( M e d i c a l Technologist)

* = Clinical experience - Block Rotations in clinical laboratories


The educational system in Kuwait is under the authority of the Ministry of Education. This Ministry controls curricula, examinations and the administration of public schools. It also inspects private schools that use curricula from Britain, the United States or other countries, to ensure satisfactory standards. The University is autonomous with respect to curriculum content and examinations.

Medical Laboratory Sciences (previously Medical Laboratory Technology) education in Kuwait is carried out by the Department of Medical Laboratory Technology at the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences and Nursing at Kuwait University. The Department offers a 4-year program leading to the award of a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences. The language of instruction is English. Admission to the program requires that students complete their higher secondary school certificate, or equivalent examinations accepted by Kuwait University.

Graduates are eligible for employment as Medical Laboratory Technologists in the Ministry of Health, or as research assistants and research technicians in laboratories. Medical Technologists have been admitted to Master of Science programs in the Faculty of Medicine at the University.

The Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences was totally ransacked during the invasion of Kuwait by Iraq in 1990. The academic year 1990-1991 was lost, and teaching recommenced on 28th September 1991. In 1998 the curriculum of the Medical Laboratory Sciences department underwent an extensive review and the University Council approved a revised curriculum.


Medical Laboratory Technologists in Kuwait are trained at the university level in a 4-year program (the only program available) at the Dept. of Medical Laboratory Sciences of Kuwait Unive


Entrance to the B.Sc. program in Medical Laboratory Sciences requires a higher secondary school certificate, or equivalent, with an examination mark of 70% or higher. Kuwait University at present does not accept students of other nationalities, except those on Government scholarships.


Medical Laboratory Sciences training is polyvalent: Hematology (including Coagulation); Blood Banking; Immunology & Serology; Clinical Microbiology (including Bacteriology, Mycology, & Parasitology); Clinical Chemistry (including Toxicology & Therapeutic Drug Monitoring); Histopathology & Cytology. Holders of the B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory Sciences may work in hospital laboratories, medical schools, research institutes, public health agencies & related organizations.6. CURRICULUM

Prior to 1998

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Prior to 1998 the B.Sc. program in Medical Laboratory Technology was a 4-year full-time study, and required completion of 124 credits (125 in 1985-86). A credit is a measure of curriculum work completed satisfactorily. One credit hour = 1 hour/week of lectures, for 15 weeks; for laboratory courses, 2 or 3 contact hours/week for 15 weeks = one credit hour.

B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory TechnologyKuwait University (1985-86)

Year I Semester I Semester IICourses Hrs. per week Hrs. per weekEnglish language 5 5Finite Mathematics 3 --Chemistry and laboratory 4 4Organic Chemistry -- 4Introduction to the profession -- 3Elective 3 -- Total 15 16

*Choice of Electives: Arab & Islamic History, Philosophy, Sociology, Anthropology, Pharmacology.

Year II Semester I Semester IICourses Hrs. per week Hrs. per weekEnglish language 3 4Physics and laboratory 4 4Mathematics 3 --Anatomy I 4 --Introduction to Computing 3 --Biochemistry -- 4Physiology I -- 3 Total 17 15

Year III Semester I Semester IICourses Hrs. per wk Hrs. per wkHistology l --Medical Biochemistry 3 2Medical Microbiology 4 3Clinical laboratory methods 3 3Medical Parasitology 2 --Histopathology and Cytology 2 3Hematology I -- 3Immunology and Serology -- 2 Total 15 16

Year IV ** Semester I Semester IICourses Hrs. per week Hrs. per weekHematology 3 3Clinical Chemistry 3 3Clinical Microbiology 3 3Clinical Parasitology 2 --Clinical Serology 2 --Histopathology and Cytology 3 --Immunohematology and Blood Banking -- 3Student project -- 3 Total 16 15 ** Courses ran concurrently with block rotation in respective clinical laboratory departments.

B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory SciencesKuwait University (1995-1996)

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Year I Semester I Semester IICourses Cr. Hrs Courses Cr. HrsChemistry & Lab 4 Introduction to Profession 3Finite Mathematics 3 Organic Chemistry & Lab 4English language 5 Physics 3Elective 3 Physics laboratory 1 English language 5 Total 15 Total 16

*Choice of Electives: Arab & Islamic History, Philosophy, Sociology, Anthropology, Pharmacology.

Year II Semester I Semester IICourses Cr. Hrs Courses Cr. HrsPsychology (A.H.) 3 Physics 3Introduction to Computers 3 Physics Lab 1Anatomy I 4 Physiology 3Histology I 1 Biostatistics 3English language 3 Microbiology 3 Elective 3 Total 14 Total 16 Year III Semester I Semester IICourses Cr. Hrs Courses Cr. HrsMedical Biochemistry 4 Clinical Chemistry I 4Medical Microbiology 4 Medical Parasitology 3Body Fluids and Urinalysis 2 Histopath. and Cytol. Methods 3Histology II 3 Hematology I 4Immunology & Med. Genetics 3 Clinical Micro. & Serology 2 Total 16 Total 16

Year IV ** Semester I Semester IICourses Cr. Hrs Courses Cr. HrsImmunohemat. & Practicum 2 Clinical Chemistry Practicum 2Hematology II & Practicum 3 Clinical Hemat. & Practicum 2Clinical Correlations I 1 Clinical Microbio. & Practicum 3 Clinical Microbio. & Practicum 3 Immuohemat. & Practicum 1Clinical Parasit. & Practicum 2 Histop. & Cyto. Mthds.III Pract. 2Clinical Chemistry II & Pract. 3 Student project 2 Total 17 Total 14** Courses run concurrently with block rotation in respective clinical laboratory departments.

Since 1999

In 1998 the curriculum of the Medical Laboratory Sciences Department underwent an extensive review and the University Council approved the revised curriculum. An outline of the courses by year, semester and credit hours per week follows:

B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory SciencesKuwait University (1999)

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FIRST YEAR Semester 1 Semester 2

Course C r e d i t hrs.


Chemistry 3 Introduction to the Profs. 3Chemistry Lab. 1 Physics 3Finite Mathematics 3 Physics Lab. 1English Language 5 English Language 5Elective 3 Biostatistics 3

Total 15 Total 15SECOND YEAR

Semester 1 Semester 2Intro. to Computers 3 Physics 3Anatomy I 4 Physics Lab. 1Histology I 1 Physiology 3English Language 3 Psychology of Medical Care

(AH)3

Microbiology 3Elective 3

Total 11 Total 16

THIRD YEARSemester 1 Semester 2



Medical Biochemistry 4 Clinical Chemistry I 4Medical Microbiology 4 Medical Parasitology 3Body Fluids & Urinalysis 2 Histopath. & Cyto Methods 3Histology II 3 Hematology I 4Immunology & Medical Genetics

3 Clinical Microbiology & Serology

2

Total 16 Total 16FOURTH YEARSemester 1 Semester 2Immunohematol. & Prac. 2 Clinical Chemistry Prac. 2Hem. II & Practicum 3 Clinical Hematology & Prac. 2Clinical Correlations I 1 Clinical Micro. & Prac. 3Clinical Micro. & Prac. 3 Immunohem. & Prac 1Clinical Parasit. & Prac. 2 Histopathology & Cytology

Methods III & Prac.2

Histology & Cytology Methods II& Prac.

3 Clinical Correlation II 2

Clinical Chem. II & Prac. 3 Student Project 2Total 17 Total 14

As of 1998 the student must have 120 hours to graduate.

Examinations and grading

The performance of the students is evaluated by examinations and laboratory exercises throughout the period of study. The computed scores of these assessments (in-course, mid-semester, final examination) are used to assign letter grades. However, in the fourth year, the performance evaluation of the clinical experience constitutes a part of the computed score for each course.

Percentages / Letter grades:95-100% A; 90-94% A-; 87-89% B+; 84-86% B; 80-83% B-; 70-79% C+; 60-69% C

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Department of Medical Laboratory SciencesFaculty of Allied Health Sciences and Nursing

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Kuwait UniversityP.O. Box 31470 Sulaibikhat, Code 90805, Kuwait


(a) Accreditation - The Medical Laboratory Sciences program at the University is under government control.

(b) Licensure - At present there is no licensing examination for Medical Technologists in Kuwait. Directly after graduation, students may take positions in the Ministry of Public Health and other ministries as well as in private laboratories.

(c) Certification - Graduates of the Medical Laboratory Sciences program at the University receive the title “Medical

Technologist”, which qualifies them to work in the profession. Since 1986, graduates have been taking the National Certification Examination (NCA) of the U.S.A. Since 1987 Kuwait has been an overseas center for this examination.

(d) Registration - None.

(e) Professional Association - There is currently no professional association.


For professional reciprocity, see reciprocity section for each individual country.

Currently, graduates with the Kuwait B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory Sciences are accepted for graduate study in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and other European countries, but there are no formal reciprocity agreements with individual countries or institutions.

For further information please contact the Kuwait Association directly at:

Dr. Makhdoom Ali Shah, Vice Dean, Academic AffairsFaculty of Allied Health Science and Nursing

Kuwait UniversityP.O. Box 31470

Sulaibikhat – 90805Kuwait

Phone (965) 4816579Fax (965) 4830937

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LATVIA, REPUBLIC OF


Prior to 1991School Leaving Certificate

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 (Atestats)primary secondary

P. Stradina Riga Secondary 1 2 3 4Vocational Medical School No.2 Feldsher/Laboratory Assistant

1 2 Feldseris Laborant)

Since 1991Secondary School Leaving Certificate

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 (Atestats par videjo izglitibu)primary secondary

P. Stradina Riga Medical School No.2 1 2 Laboratory Technician/Laboratory Assistant Diploma or Honors Diploma

1 2 3 Certificate*

* = The certificate is awarded after 3 years practice and successful completion of the Laboratory Specialist Association examination of the Latvia Republic.


At present the basic (primary) school education starts at the age of 6 or 7 and lasts 9 years. Secondary school education is 3 years. A Laboratory Assistant Diploma or Laboratory Assistant Diploma with Honors requires two years post-secondary education at P. Stradina Riga Medical School No. 2 followed by three years practice and successful passage of an examination given by the Laboratory Specialist Association (LSA) of the Latvia Republic.

Medical laboratory education in Latvia started in 1940 at the Laboratory Assistant School of the Health Department at Hospital No. 2, now P. Stradina Riga Medical School No 2. Until independence in 1991, training was standardized for the entire U.S.S.R. Secondary-level vocational medical schools offered education for middle grade medical personnel including medical laboratory technicians (‘feldshers’). Since students could enter this type of education from the 9th grade, study was considered a specialized secondary school education. Students who entered training after completing grade 9 attended 4 years. Students who graduated from secondary school (11th grade) attended approximately 2 years. In 1988 the program and curriculum were revised and updated in accordance with new scientific discoveries and local needs.In 1991, following independence, the curriculum and programs were upgraded. The programs (entry now based on 12 years of secondary school education) require 2 years of study at the post-secondary level and lead to the Laboratory Assistant Diploma. A further 3 years practice and successful completion of the Laboratory Specialist Association examination of the Latvia Republic is required for certification. Subjects have also been changed to take into account environmental protection, immunology, and pathophysiology.

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Prior to 1991

Feldsher/Laboratory Assistant (Feldseris laborant):To become a Feldsher/Laboratory Assistant (Feldseris laborant) required 2 to 4 years study depending on whether a student entered the program from the 9th or 11th grade. The 4-year program included both the 2 years of high school study and the specialization.

Since 1991

Laboratory Assistant Diploma:To become a Laboratory Assistant a student must hold the Diploma or Diploma with Honors, which requires 2 years of post-secondary education. The Diploma with Honors requires grades of Excellent in all but 1 or 2 subjects.

Certified Laboratorian:To become a Certified Laboratorian requires 3-years practice following the Diploma and a qualification examination of the Laboratory Specialist Association (LSA) of the Republic of Latvia.


Prior to 1991

Feldsher/Laboratory Assistant (Feldseris laborant):Applicants to these programs were required to complete either 9 or 11 years of school education. Those who entered from the 9th grade undertook a 4-year program of study; those entering from the 11th grade undertook a 2-year program.

Since 1991

Laboratory Assistant Diploma:Entrance to the 2-year Diploma program requires successful completion of 12 years primary/secondary school and a Secondary School Leaving Certificate (Atestats).

Certified Laboratorian:To qualify for the examination of the Laboratory Specialist Association of the Latvia Republic leading to a Certificate, the student must have received the Diploma and have practiced for 3 years.


Education for Medical Laboratory Assistants is polyvalent and includes Microbiology, Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology, Histology, Cytology, Hygiene, Clinical Biochemistry, Parastitology and Genetics.

Laboratorians work at laboratories, clinical diagnostic centers, scientific research institutes, environmental institutes of the food industry and in production.

6. CURRICULUM

Curricula are ratified by the Laboratory Specialist Association. The Ministry of Science and Education of the Latvia Republic has accredited the current curricula until the year 2001.

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Prior to 1991

4-year Feldsher/Laboratory Assistant (Feldseris laborant)P. Stradina Riga Secondary Vocational Medical School No. 2

Subject Theory Practice Total HoursBasic High School SubjectsBasic Philosophy Principles ---History 192Social Studies 74Fundamentals of Scientific Atheism (Pass) 18Latvian Language and Literature 334Russian Language and Literature 210Mathematics 304Physics 250Foreign Language (English) 98

Professional CoursesBeginners Latin 38 38Biology 60 24 84Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology 107 32 139Fundamentals of Pharmacology 30 6 36Organization of Health Preservation --Inorganic Chemistry 115 62 177Fundamentals of Genetics --Analytical Chemistry 6 78 84Economic Geography 57Organic Chemistry 53 62 115Biological Chemistry 52 92 144Fundamentals of Internal Diseases with Pathological Physiology & Pathological Anatomy 82 44 126Epidemiology & Fundamentals of Infectious Diseases 108Microbiology and Techniques of Microbiological Research 80 250 330

Techniques of Laboratory Work 57 57Methodology of Clinical Lab. Research 290Hygiene & Techniques of Hygiene Research 62 188 250Fund. of Histology & Histology Techniques 30 54 84Parasitology & Entomology 42 30 72First Aid 50Protection of Labor & Fire Safety 36Physical Education 208Fundamentals of Military Training 76Fundamentals of Medical Military Training 76Soviet Law 30

Since 1991

2-year Laboratory Technician/Assistant Diploma/Diploma with Honors(after 12 years school education)

P. Stradina Riga Medical School No. 2

Subject Theory Practice Total HoursHumanities BlockPhilosophy 34 4 38Law 20 -- 20Foreign Languages (English/German) -- 106 106Latin 30 -- 30TOTAL 84 110 194

Science BlockComputers -- 76 76Psychology & Nursing Ethics 30 -- 30Anatomy & Physiology 80 40 120Medical Genetics 30 15 45TOTAL 140 131 271Special Subjects BlockTechniques of Practice in the Laboratory -- 48 48Analytical Chemistry & Basic Chemistry 18 62 80Introduction to Medical Practice 148 72 220Special Pathophysiology 34 -- 34General Pathology (therapeutic & surgical diseases) 50 20 70Clinical Laboratory Methods 70 264 334Methods of Biochemical Examination 70 228 298Microbiology & Methods of Examination (Infectious Diseases. & Epidemiology & Immunology0

100 274 374

Hygiene 84 186 270Hygiene Examination Methods 50 76 126

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Histology & Its Examination Methods 22 24 46Medical Parasitology 20 - 20

Protection of Environment 20 -- 20Pharmacology 24 32 56Intensive Care & Disaster Medicine - 16 16Modern Techniques of Laboratories -- TOTAL 720 1292 2012

SubjectsPhysical Training & Massage 90 60 150Foreign Language (English/German) 90 124 214History of Latvian Culture 60 16 76Mathematics 30 -- 30TOTAL 270 200 470

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

P. Stradina Riga Medical School No. 2Vidus prosp. 36Jurmala, Bulduri Latvia8. PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION

Prior to 1991

a. Accreditation - Curricula requirements were established by the Ministry of Health in conjunction with the State Committee for Public Education

Since 1991

a. Accreditation. - Curriculum is ratified by the Laboratory Specialist Association (LSA) and accredited by the Ministry of Science and

Education of the Latvia Republic.

b. Licensing and Certification - Laboratory assistants are licensed by the Health Department of Riga as well as several local councils. Certification of Laboratory Assistants is done by the Laboratory Specialist Association of Latvia Republic (LSA).

c. Professional Association - Laboratory Specialist Association of Latvia Republic (LSA)


Foreign-trained Medical Laboratory personnel are allowed to work only after approval of the Professional Education Center for Health Care Workers. Latvian Medical Laboratory personnel are allowed to practice abroad according to specific arrangements with the countries in which they wish to practice.


Director of Professional Education for Health Care WorkersLatvijas Republikas Labklãjibas MinistrijaMedicinas Profesionãlãs Zglitibas Centres

Kapselu iela 23LV-1046 Riga, Latvia

Tel: 371 - 727-1713 Fax: 371-2-602-467

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LIBYA1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 Secondary School CertificateHealth Institute 11 Diploma as Medical TechnicianHigher Institute of Technology (Brack)*, ** 1 2 3 4 B.Sc.in Med. Tech. (OMTHeath Institute of Medical Technology (Tripoli) 1 2 3 Higher Diploma

4 B.Sc. in Med.Tech.(OMT)

Faculty of Science 1 2 3 4 B.Sc. Biology or Chemistry1 ADLM

2 3 M.Sc. ***Faculty of Medicine, 1 2 3 4 5 6 M.B.Ch.B

1 ADLM2 3

* 1979-1987 3yrs; after 1988, 4 years were required for the B.Sc.** The Institute has recently been renamed the Faculty of Engineering Technology** M.Sc. in Laboratory Medicine (Clinical Biochemistry); (Clinical Microbiology); (Clinical Immunology); (Clinical

Hematology)


Education in Libya generally begins when a child reaches 6 years of age. Primary education lasts 6 years and is followed by 3 years middle school and 3 years secondary. Following completion of middle school (Grade 9) a student can enter a 3-year Health Institute program leading to a Diploma qualification as a Medical Technician.

Following secondary school a student interested in a career in Medical Technology may enroll in one of four institutions: 1) The Higher Institute of Technology ( founded in Malta in 1976 then transferred to Brack in 1980 and recently renamed the Faculty of Engineering Technology.) Here, from 1979 to 1987 a student could earn a B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory Technology in 3 years. Since 1988 the B.Sc. program has required 4 years of study; 2) The Higher Institute of Medical Technology (founded in Tripoli in 1987). Here a student may earn a Higher Diploma after 3 years study and a B.Sc. after 4 years study; 3) a Faculty of Science. Here a student may earn a B.Sc. in Biology (Zoology), or a B.Sc. in Chemistry which will qualify him to work as a Medical Laboratory Technologist; or 4) a Faculty of Medicine, where he may earn the Bachelor Medicine or Bachelor of Surgery (M.B.Ch.B) in 6 years. In response to a need for even more sophisticated training in Medical Laboratory Science, the Department of Laboratory Medicine , Faculty of Medicine at Al-Arab Medical University, Benghazi added two other programs: an M.Sc. in Laboratory Medicine in Clinical Biochemistry, or Clinical Microbiology, or Clinical Hematology or Clinical Immunology in 1990, and an Advanced Postgraduate Diploma in Laboratory Medicine was in 1995.

The need to train medical laboratorians became evident some forty years ago as Laboratory Assistants began to receive training from Italian doctors and technicians to perform increasingly complex tasks of medical analysis. Around 1969 this training was formalized for Libya at the Health Institute in Benghazi. In 1976 the Libyan Higher Institute was established in Malta to train Medical Laboratorians. In 1980 the Institute transferred to Brack in Libya. It has recently changed its name to the Faculty of Engineering Technology. I n 1987 The Higher Institute of Medical Technology opened at al-Fatah University in Tripoli with a 3 year Diploma program and 4 year B.Sc. program. In 1990 and 1995 respectively the Al-Arab Medical University added the M.Sc. in Laboratory Medicine and the ADLM.


1) Medical Laboratory Technician In order to qualify as a Medical Laboratory Technician a student must complete the 3-year Diploma program at a

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Health Institute.

2) Medical Laboratory Technologist (Scientist ): To qualify as a Medical Laboratory Technologist requires successful completion of :a) the 3-year Higher Diploma program or the 4-year B.Sc. at the Higher Institute of Medical Technology, ORb) the 4-year B.Sc.. from the Higher Institute of Technology (Faculty of Engineering Technology), ORc) the B.Sc.. from a University Faculty of Science in either Chemistry or Biology, ORd) the M.B.Ch.B from a faculty of Medicine, ORe) a 1-year Advanced Diploma in Laboratory Medicine(ADLM)f) an M.Sc. in Laboratory Medicine (Clinical Biochemistry), (Clinical Microbiology( Clinical Hematology) or

(Clinical Immunology)

All courses are designed in such a way that 40-50% practical training is provided to the students.


1) Diploma Program Applicants to the 3-year health institute program must complete the 9th grade.

2) Higher Diploma Programs or B.Sc. programs Students applying to any of the Higher Diploma or B.Sc. programs must have successfully completed secondary school.

3) Advanced Diploma in Laboratory Medicine(ADLM) A candidate for admission to the ADML program should hold the first the degree in Medicine

(M.B.Ch.B. ) or a degree in Veterinary Medicine (B.V.Sc.) or the B.Sc. in Biological Sciences, or B.Sc. a degree in Medical Laboratory Technology (OMT) or other equivalent degree or diploma , must have a grade average of “Good,” pass an entrance examination and be approved by a committee.

4) M.Sc. in Laboratory Medicine (Clinical Biochemistry), (Clinical Microbiology), ( Clinical Hematology) or (Clinical Immunology)

A candidate must have obtained the postgraduate diploma ÄDLM of the Department of Laboratory Medicine with a grade of “Very Good” in both general as well as the selected sub-specialty courses and must be approved by a departmental postgraduate committee.


Medical Laboratory Technology training at the Higher Diploma and B.Sc. level is polyvalent and includes Hematology, Microbiology, Clinical Chemistry, Parasitology, Histology and Blood Banking. The Advanced Diploma in Laboratory Medicine (ADLM)and M.Sc. level is specialized. Medical Laboratorians work in hospitals, clinics, and in university and research center laboratories

6. CURRICULUM

Sample Curriculum3-year- B.Sc.Higher Institute of Technology Brack, 1984

Year 1 Semester 1- Semester 2- Subject Lecture Practical Lecture PracticalGeneral Chemistry 4 2 4 2Organic Chemistry 4 2 4 2Physics 3 2 3 2Zoology 3 2 3 2Botany 3 2 3 2Mathematics 3 -- 3 --English 7 -- 6 --

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Year 2 Semester 1 Semester 2Subject Lecture Practical Lecture PracticalAnatomy (M) 2 -- 2 --Physiology (M) 2 -- 2 --Hematology (M) 3 3 3 3Biochemistry (M) 4 3 4 3Microbiology (M) 2 3 2 3Biostatistics 2 -- 2 --English 2 -- 2 --Instrumentation/Anal. Chem. (M) 2 3 2 3

Year 3 Semester 1 Semester 2

Subject Lecture Practical Lecture PracticalMicrobiology (M) 3 3 3 3Hematology(M) 3 3 3 3Clinical Chemistry (M) 5 3 3 3Parasitology (M) 2 3 -- 2Histology -- -- 2 3Instrumentation/Chem. Anal.(M) 2 3 2 3Blood/Banking/Lab Mgmt. 1 -- 1 --English Language 2 -- 2 --

Figures represent hours per week for 15 weeks per semesterDuring the summer, 12 weeks were spent in the field in Medical and Clinical Laboratories

Grading: Excellent Excellent 85-100% Pass 50 - 64% Very Good 75 - 84 Weak 35 -49 Good 65 - 74 Very Weak Below 35M. represents Major subjects. In Major subjects, the pass mark is 60%; in Minor subjects it is 50%

3-year Higher DiplomaHigher Institute of Medical Technology, Al-Fateh University of Medical Science, Tripoli -1993

Year 1Subject Credit

Lecture LaboratoryZoology 3 2Physics 2 --General Chemistry 2 3Intro. To Statistics -- --Arabic Language 2 --Scientific terms 2 --Histology 2 2Organic Chemistry 2 3Intro to Public Health 2 2Jamahiriyan Culture 2 --


Lecture LaboratoryVital Statistics 3 --Tissue Pathology -- --Organic Chemistry -- --Bio-Chemistry 3 3Hematology 2 3Physiology 4 --Pathology 2 2Apparatus & Instruments 2 3Community Health 2


Lecture LaboratorySocial Psychology 2 --Microbiology & Immunology 2 2Parasitology 2 2Clinical Chemistry 2 2Hematology 3 4Laboratory Administration 2 --Islamic Culture 2 --Professional Ethics -- --

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1-year Advanced Diploma in Laboratory MedicineAl-Arab Medical University

Each course consists of 12 months: 9 months of theory, 3 months of hospital practice.Clinical Immunology

Theory Hours Practice HoursIntroduction to Immunology 1 Diagnostic Immunology Lab 4Antigens 4 Immunodiagnostic Tests on

Immunoprecipitation16

Immunoglobins 5 Electrophoretic Techniques 12Complete System 3 Immunodiagnostic Tests based on Latex

Agglunation16

Immune System 3 Immunodiag. Tests based on Hemoaglutination & Hemo. Inhibition

16

Immunogenetics 3 Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (Elisa) Tests

16

Immune Response 3 Immunofluorescence Techniques 12Cytokines 3 Complement Fixation Test 4Hypersensitivity Reactions 3 Immunoblotting Techniques 4Immunity to Infections

6 Cellular Immunity Tests 12

Autoimmunity

3 Total 128

Immunodeficiency Diseases 3Antigen-Antibody Interactions 18Tumor Immunology 2Transplantation Immunology2

2

Immunization 2

2

Total 64 Diagnostic Hematology

Theory Hours Practice HoursIntroduction to Hematology 2 Collection of Blood Samples 6Normal Hematopoietic System 4 Physiological Variations 12Erythropoisis 2 Basic Hematological Techniques 20Leucopoisis 4 Bone Marrow Examination 6Thrombosis 2 Investigations of Hemolytic Anemias 20Blood Group Serology & Blood Transfusion

4 Blood Group Serology 16

Red Blood Disorders 16 Blood Transfusion Techniques 18Disorders of Hemostasis 10 Tutorials, Slide Seminars 30Non-Malignant Leucoctye Disorders 6 Total 128Malignant Neoplastic Disorders of Hemotopoisis System

14

Total 64Diagnostic Microbiology

Theory PracticeIntro. to Clinical Microbiology 2 Intro. To Diagnostic-Clinical Microbiology

Lab.4

Types of Microorganism 4 Gen’l Principles in Staining Procedure 20The Bacterial Cell 6 Cultivation of Bacteria 4Growth &Nutrition of Bacteria 4 Methods of Obtaining Pure Cultures 12Microbial Metabolism 2 Preservation of Lab. Cultures 4Control of Microorganisms 6 Antibiotic Sensitivity Tests 16Chemotherapy of Infections 6 Collection & Transport of Clinical

Specimens for Microbiological Examination

12

Food Microbiology 2 Control of Microorganisms 12Water Microbiology 2 Cultural & Biochem. Characterization of

Some Gram+Ve & Gram-Ve Pathogenic Bacteria

12

Intro. To Molecular Biology 6 Microbiology Examination of Food Poisoning

4

Microbial Infections of the Human Body 4 Laboratory Diagnoses 20Applied Microbiology 6 Medical Diagnostic Parasitology

Mycology & Virology8

Diagnostic Parasitology 4 Total 128Diagnostic Virology 4Clinical Mycology 4Total 64

128 129

Diagnostic HematologyTheory PracticeIntro. To Clin. Biochem. & Basic Concepts 4 Basic of Clinical Biochemistry 8Carbohydrates 7 Carbohydrates 12Lipids 6 Lipids 12Amino Acids & Proteins 7 Amino Acids and Proteins 12Nucleic Acids 2 Nucleic Acids 4Porphyrins 2 Porphyrins & Related Compounds 4Acid Base, Electrolyte & Water Balance 4 Acid Base, Electrolyte & Water Balance 8Diagnostic Enzymology 7 Diagnostic Enzymology 12Liver Functions Tests 2 Liver Functions Tests 8Renal Function Tests 2 Renal Function Tests 8Nutrition 4 Nutrition 8Endocrinology 7 Endocrinology 16Neurochemistry 2 Neurochemistry 4Biochemical Genetics 2 Biochemical Genetics 8Clinical Toxicology 4 Clinical Toxicology 8Quality Control 2 Quality Control 8Total 64 Total 128

Grading is given to the student according to marks obtained in the final examination.

Excellent: 85-100% Good: 75-84% Pass: 65-74%

3-year M.Sc. Degree

Al-Arab Medical University

The curriculum for each of the four following M.Sc. degrees consists of 3 main elements: Theory lectures, practicals and research in the chosen sub-specialty. In addition, supporting courses on Medical Statistics, Computers and Medical Genetics are part of the curriculum.

Clinical BiochemistryTheory (1 x 4 x 30= 120 Hours) Practical (4 x 4 x 30 =480)Carbohydrates Metabolism & its Disorders CarbohydratesLipid & Lipoprotein Metabolism & their Disorders Lipids and LipoproteinsAmino Acids & Protein Metab. & their Disorders Amino Acids, Protein & Nucleic AcidsPurine Metabolism & Its Disorders Practice of Quality ControlDiagnostic Enzymology Diagnostic EnzymologyEndricrinology HormonesDisorders of Water, Electrolytes & Acid Base Bal. Water, Electrolytes & Acid Base BalanceBiochem.spects of Cancer, Inflammation & Trauma Biochemical CalculationsNutrition Principles of InstrumentationNeurochemistry NeurochemistryBiochemical Genetics & Molecular Biology Biochemical Genetics & Molecular BiologyClinical Toxicology & Therapeutic Drug Monitoring Clinical Toxicology & Therapeutic Drug Monitoring

Clinical MicrobiologyTheory (1 x 4 x 30 = 120 Hours Practical (4 x 4 x 30 = 480 Hours)Intro. To Clinical Microbiology Collection & Transport of Clinical SpecimensVirulence & Pathogenicity of Bacteria Lab. Diagnosis of Syndromes and Interpretation of

ResultsMicrobes vs. Humans Detection of Toxin Production in certain

MicroorganismsBacterial Pathogens & Assoc. Diseases In Vivo Pathogenicity testingSpecific Clinical Topics Study of Morphol., Cultural & Biochem. CharactersMedical Virology Determination of Drug-resistance among Clinical

Bacterial IsolatesProtozoology Lab. Diagnosis of Fungal Infections

Lab. Diagnosis of Parasitic InfectionsClinical Mycology Lab. Diagnosis of Viral Infections

Clinical HematologyTheory (1 x 4 x 30 = 120 Hours Practical (4 x 4 x 30 = 480 Hours)Intro. To hematology Basic Hematological PracticesNormal Hemapoietic System Preparation, staining & exam. of blood filmsNormal Hemapoitic Cells Bone Marrow ExaminationRed Cells Disorder Automated Blood Cell AnalysisDisorders of Leokocytes Laboratory Investigation of AnemiasDisorders of Hemostasis Investigation of Refractory AnemiasImmuno-hematology Investigation of Leukocyte DisordersBone Marrow Investigation of Hemostatic DisorderSpleen Quality Control Techniques

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Clinical ImmunologyTheory (1 x 4 x 30 = 120 Hours Practical (4 x 4 x 30 = 480 Hours)Intro. To Clinical Immunology Immunochemical TechniqueCellular Immunology Immunoserodiagnistic tests for Infectious DiseasesMolecular Immunology Immunohistochemical testsClinical Aspects of Immunology Qualitative and Quantitative tests for Lymphocyte &

Leucocyte functionsTissue-typing for HLA-antigensQuality Control in Immunoassays

Examination and GradesAssessment (Theory) 10 marksAssessment (Practical) 10

Tutorials 5 Seminars (departmental) 10 Case/paper presentation 5

Final Examination: Theory-I (MCQs) 60 marks Theory !! (Essays) 90 Practicals 80 Orals 30 Total 260 Grand Total 300 marks(Those who fail the final examination of the theory and practical may be allowed to resit the examinations within 3 months. Those not succeeding the second time may be asked to drop out of the University.)

Grades: Excellent: 85-100% Good: 75-84% Pass: 65-74% Research projects (Thesis) The thesis will be evaluated by external examiners, followed by presentation (seminar) and oral examination and will be either accepted or rejected. (It will not carry marks for grading).

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Al-Arab Medical UniversityFaculty of MedicineP.O. Box 18251Tel: 21152/22195Benghazi

Higher Institute of Technology (Faculty of Engineering Technology)Medical Laboratory Science StudyPO Box 68Brack

Higher Institute of Medical TechnologyAl-Fateh University of Medical ScienceP.O. Box 13390Tripoli

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Faculty of MedicineUniversity of SebhaP.O. Box 19838Sebha

University of DernaFaculty of Medical TechnologyBas-TubrukDernaTel: 081 32865- 32868

Faculty of Technology & MedicineP.O. Box 17458MisurataTel: 051-619424, 616336 Fax: 051 616 672


In 1984 The Jala Medical Technologist Group was formed.

9. EQUIVALENCY / RECIPROCITY

Applicants from foreign countries are not eligible to practice in Libya. However, they are usually employed as consultants and technicians in the laboratories of government hospitals and other organizations.


Chairman, Department of Laboratory MedicineAl-Arab medical University

P.O. Box 18251Benghazi

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LUXEMBOURG


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Baccalauréat

1 2 3 Baccalauréat TechniqueDiplôme d’Etat d’Assistant Technique Médical de Laboratoire (State Diploma of Medical Laboratory Assistant)1 2 3 Studies abroad

leadingto the examinationfor Diplôme d’Etatde Laborantin (State Diploma of Laboratorian)


The Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg is a small country and has no university of its own. Therefore, medical laboratory science training above the secondary level must take place abroad. There are two basic levels of medical laboratory science training recognized in Luxembourg:

1) Medical technical laboratory assistants (Assistants Techniques Médicaux de Laboratoire)2) Laboratorians (Laborantins)

Only the training for medical technical laboratory assistants is offered within the country, at the Luxembourg State School for Medical Technical Laboratory Assistants (Lycée Technique pour Professions de Santé, previously offered at École d’Assistants Techniques Médicaux de Laboratoire). The program is 36 months in duration, and is open to students with a minimum of 11 years of previous schooling. The diploma is obtained by a national examination.

At the next level, laboratory assistants must be trained in a specific program abroad lasting a minimum of three years. After these studies, the student returns to Luxembourg and has to submit his/her diploma to the Ministry of Education for national recognition. (Before recent changes in the regulations, the program had to have prior approval from the Ministry of Public Health. After these studies, the student returned to Luxembourg to sit for the national examination for the Diplôme d’ État de Laborantin.)

Since November 18, l967 and passage of the “Loi reglementant l’exercise de certaines professions paramédicales” (Law regulating the exercise of certain paramedical professions), the Ministry of Health has registered all qualified laboratory workers. This law has been replaced by “Loi du 26 mars 1992 sur l’exercise et la revalorisation de certaines professions de santé.”


There are two levels of training for laboratory personnel in Luxembourg:

1) Medical technical laboratory assistant - 36 month training course at the secondary education level, followed by national diploma examination Baccalauréat Technique, Diplôme dÈtat d’assistant technique médical.

2) Laboratorian - 3-year program of studies abroad, generally in Belgium, where students attend training called “enseignement technique supérieur de type court”

(short higher technical training), followed by national recognition and diploma examination (Diplôme d’Etat de laborantin)

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in Luxembourg.


Prior to 1998

For the Diploma of Medical Technical Laboratory Assistant candidates had to have completed:

1) A total of 11 years of schooling and received the Certificat de fin d’études moyennes, section of biology and social sciences OR

2) The state nursing diploma (Diplôme d’Etat d’infirmier) OR

3) The chemist’s aid certificate (Certificat d’aide chimiste) or a national or foreign education deemed equivalent to above.

Applicants also had to have a certificate from a physician attesting to good health, including polio and tetanus vaccination and tuberculosis testing.

For the laboratorian program (laborantin), the candidate had to have:

1) Completed a total of 13 years of schooling (Diplôme de fin d’études secondaires) or recognized foreign equivalent;

2) Been admitted into a foreign school where the conditions for admission and the training program itself are recognized by the Ministry of Public Health in Luxembourg.

The only foreign schools recognized were those awarding the final diploma after three years of study, i.e. The Baccalauréat or secondary leaving diploma plus three years. This was only possible in Belgium

As of 1998

For the Diploma of Medical Technical Laboratory Assistant candidates must have completed:

A total of 11 years of schooling and received the Certificat de fin d’études moyennes, section of biology and social sciences, aide chimiste or a national or foreign education deemed equivalent to above.

Applicants also should have a certificate from a physician attesting to good health, including polio and tetanus vaccination and tuberculosis testing.

For the laboratorian program (laborantin), the candidate must have:

Completed a total of 13 years of schooling (Diplôme de fin d’études secondaires) or recognized foreign equivalent, and 3 years of study abroad. The diploma must be recognized by the Ministry of Education


The medical technical laboratory assistant works under the supervision of the head of the laboratory and the laboratorians. Training for medical technical laboratory is polyvalent, and includes clinical chemistry, microbiology, hematology as well as blood banking. The job description for medical technical laboratory assistants, besides techniques of analysis, includes, among other activities, venous and capillary blood collection, collection of gastric specimens, and eye, throat and cutaneous cultures.

Medical laboratory assistants have the possibility of access to training for laboratorians (laborantins), which is obtained abroad, (usually Belgium), and must consist of at least three years of theory and practice in:

1) Biological chemistry. 5) Hematology2) Bacteriology 6) Serology.3) Parasitology. 7) Virology.4) Normal and pathological histology. .

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The “State Diploma of Medical Technical Laboratory Assistant” is equivalent to the so-called ‘Bac Technique,’ which is the entry to the Laborantin Diploma. The Laborantin training also must include one year of practical experience in Luxembourg or abroad, in a laboratory approved by the Ministry of Health. As of 2000 the laboratory need only be approved by the school.

6. CURRICULUM

Since the training for laboratorians is completed abroad (generally in Belgium) there is no standardized curriculum available. We are describing below the training given for the State Diploma of Medical Technical Laboratory Assistant.

Prior to 1999

State Diploma of Medical Technical Laboratory Assistant

As of 1993, the program of study consisted of at least 1200 units of theoretical and technical training education (increased by 100 units) and 2350 units of practical experience (decreased from 2800 units). The practical experience required a 36-month training period. (Up to October 1991, practical training was 18 months.) This training had to be undertaken in medical laboratories that had been selected by the Director of the School of Medical Technical Laboratory Assistants. Certain specific training had to be undertaken in a special laboratory. For instance, bacteriology training was undertaken in one of two specific laboratories, the National Health Laboratory or in the Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, which was the most important hospital in Luxembourg.

After successful completion of the medical technical laboratory assistant program, a national examination for the State Diploma was required. This examination was usually given once each year at the end of each training program. It consisted of written, oral and practical tests on the material covered during the training.

The examination was taken in front of an examinations committee named by the Minister of Health and composed of:Two medical doctors; two chemical engineers/Ph.D.’s in sciences; a laboratorian; a medical technical laboratory assistant

The written examination consisted of at least 3 tests and the practical examination of at least 2 practical tests. A grade of “Great distinction” (grande distinction) was granted to a candidate who had received at least 85% of the total points; a candidate who received between 75% and 84% of the total points received a grade of “distinction”. Candidates who failed one or two examinations were allowed to repeat those examinations. If more than two examinations were failed, the candidate had to repeat all. Candidates who failed all examinations, or who did not show up for the examinations, were rejected.

CurriculumSchool for Medical Laboratory Assistants

(École d’Assistant Technique Médicaux de Laboratoire)

Subject Total units of lecturesTHEORYTheory & Techniques of Clinical Practice 235Anatomy & Physiology 66Mathematics & Gen’l Chem. Inorganic & Organic 96Semiology & Pathology 27Microbiology & Infectious Diseases 22Applied Medical Physics 22Medical Imaging 10Hygenie 12

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Pharmacology 10Nutrition 10Professional & Hospital Legislation & Ethics 12Psychology & Sociology 20Pediatrics 10Gerontology 16Medical Chemistry 226Pharmacology & Toxicology 24Immunology & Serology 60Microbiology & Parasitology 50Hematology 100Blood Grouping & Transfusion 60Techniques in Biochemistry } Techniques in Hematology }Techniques in Immunology & Serology } 90Techniques in Microbiology & Parasitology }Techniques in Blood Grouping }Professional visits 38Total 1200 units

PRACTICAL EXPERIENCEInternal Medicine & Medical Specialties/Surgery &

Surgical Specialties500

Medical Imaging 70Laboratory Analysis in Medical Biology *Medical Chemistry 540 *Hematology, Coagulation & Blood Grouping 540 *Bacteriology 200 *Serology 200 *Anatomo-pathology 200 *Objectives in pursuit of local opportunities 100Total 2350 units

• One unit= approximately 50 minutes

The state examination for the laboratorian diploma, or “laborantinThis examination takes place annually and is open to candidates who have successfully completed their foreign studies and practical work experience and have presented appropriate documentation to this effect. It consists of written, practical and oral tests on the following material:

1) Medical or clinical chemistry.2) Microbiology: bacteriology, serology, parasitology, and virology.3) Hematology, current histological technique, and blood groups.

As of 1999

Division des professions de santé des professions socialesCycle supérieur

Section de la formation de l’assistant technique médical-laboratoire

Subjects YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3Professional Subjects Hrs. per *

weekHrs. per *week

Hrs. per *week

Medical Chemistry 2 4 4 4 1.5 4Professional Techniques 8 4 16 4 22.5 4Hematology 1 3 1.5 4 1.5 4

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Microbiology 0.5 2 2.5 4 1.5 4Basic ideas 1.5 4 1 4 0.5 4Anatomo-pathology 0.5 3Professional Theory 1 3Knowledge of the Prof. World

0.5 2 1 2

Humanities & Social Sciences

1 2 0.5 2 0.5 2

General SubjectsChemistry 3 3English 2 3 2 3 1 3French 3 2Information 1Current Affairs 1 (2) 1 2Physics 2.5 2Sports 1 1 0.5 1 0.5 1

Total 32 38 32 31 32 34* coefficient

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Training for laboratory assistants in Luxembourg may be obtained at the Luxembourg State School for Medical Technical Laboratory Assistants:

Lycée technique pour Professions de Santé 27 Rue Barbié L-1211 Luxembourg

8.EQUIVALENCY/ RECIPROCITY

In Luxembourg, foreign degrees and diplomas at all levels are quite common and thus are regularly evaluated and recognized by the Ministry of National Education and the Ministry of Public Health in Luxembourg according to government regulations.

9.PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION

a) Accreditation - The one school for medical technical laboratory assistants is now under the control of the Ministry of Education (Ministère de

l’Education Nationale). Previously it was under the Ministry of Public Health as well.

b) Certification -

1)For medical technical laboratory assistants -a national examination for the “Diplôme dÈtat d’Assistant Technique Médical de Laboratoire”.

2) For Laboratorians - a standardized examination given once per year by the Ministry of Education for the “Diplôme d’Etat de Laborantin”.

c) Registration -Since passage of the November l8, l967, law on paramedical education, the Ministry of Health has maintained a registry of qualified laboratory workers. Between l967 and 1998 a total of 300 laboratory assistants were registered.

d) Licensure -As of July l984 “Medical Analysis Laboratories” are licensed. The examination for the Diplôme d’Etat

d’Assistant Technique Médical de Laboratoire and the Diplôme d’Etat de Laborantin are licensing examinations.

e) Professional Associations -

Association Nationale des Laborantins Dipl.p.a. B.P. 1102

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L-1011LuxembourgTel: +352 491191 362 (at Laboratoire National de Santé)Fax: +352 491191 363

For further information please contact the National Association directly at:

Marc Flies (President)Association Nationale des Laborantins Dipl A.S.B.L p.a. B.P.1102

L-1011 LuxembourgTel: 352-491191 362Fax: 352-491191 363

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MALAYSIA


Prior to 1993:1 Junior Medical Laboratory Technologist *

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Malaysian Certificate of Educationprimary school sec. school

School of Medical Laboratory 1 2 3 Certificate in Medical Laboratory TechnologyTechnology (Institute forMedical Research)

1 2 Advanced Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology(on-the-job training)

University of Malaya 1 2 3 Certificate in Medical Laboratory TechnologyMedical Centre

National University of Malaysia 4 5 Advanced Certificate/DiplomaUniversity of Science Malaysia in Medical Laboratory Technology **

Note:* = Phased out from 1989; **= Part-time, (In-service training)

From 1993:

Malaysian Certificate of Education (“Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia”)1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Higher School Cert. of Education

primary school

secondary school (“Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia”)

Univ. of Malaya Medical. CentreUniversity Putra Malaysia

1 2 3 Degree in Biomedical. Science. (B.Sc.) >

National Univ. of Malaysia ↑Monash University Malaysia ↑

↑ College of Medical Laboratory Tech 1 2 3 Diploma in Med. Lab.Technology

(Institute for Medical Research)University of Malaya Med. Center UniversityUniversity of Science MalaysiaMARA Institute of Technology

> As of 1996. Reduced to 3 years from original 4- year programs. No exemptions given. All students enter the first year.

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Traditionally, the education of personnel for medical laboratories in Malaysia was on-the-job training. However, in the mid-1960s formal courses were introduced.

In 1963, when the University of Malaya Medical Centre was established, it became clear that there was a serious shortage of Medical Laboratory Assistants (the title ‘Technologist’ was adopted in 1972). To counter this shortage and meet the immediate needs of a new teaching hospital, which was due to open in 1968, a 5-year in-service course in Medical Laboratory Technology began in 1966 at the University of Malaya Medical Centre. The course was designed in two parts: Part 1 consisted of a 3-year multi-disciplinary course leading to the Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology; Part 2 consisted of 2-years of advanced training, leading to the Advanced Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology, the equivalent of the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology of other local universities.

In 1967 the School of Medical and Health Laboratory Technology of the Ministry of Health of Malaysia established a 3-year, full-time course leading to the Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology and a 1-year full-time Certificate program for Junior Medical Laboratory Technologist was established. In 1974 the Advanced Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology was introduced.Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) were also trained at the National University of Malaysia (UKM) and the University of Science, Malaysia (USM). The program of study in each of these two universities was similar to that of the University of Malaya Medical Centre.

Since 1988, (when the original chapter on Malaysia was included in the first edition of this directory), there have been some significant changes in the field of education and training of Medical Laboratory Technologists. In 1989 the Junior Medical Laboratory Technologist (JLMT) program, which had been established as an interim measure to overcome the acute shortage of Medical Laboratory Technologists, was phased out. JMLTs with the necessary basic academic qualification began to be trained as regular students for an additional 3 years, being absorbed into the main stream of the Medical Laboratory profession as full fledged MLTs.

Since 1988, the curriculum and duration of MLT education has also been reviewed and restructured. The 3-year, full-time Certificate course, followed by two years on the job for certification at advanced level, and the 5-year in-service/part-time course, leading to an Advanced Certificate or Diploma, were restructured in 1991 to a 3-year full-time Diploma course, thus eliminating the differences that existed among the various institutions within the country. In addition to Medical Laboratory Technology programs, two of the local universities (University of Malaya Medical Centre and the National University of Malaysia) also offer 4-year degree programs in Biomedical Sciences.

All the degree courses in Biomedical Sciences in Malaysia started as 4-year programs. But they all have been converted to 3-year programs as of 1996. The University of Putra Malaysia was the latest institution to start a Biomedical Science course. It enrolled its first students in 1993 and they will graduate in 1997. The course is conducted in the Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences.


Currently two levels of Medical Laboratory Science training are available in Malaysia.

1) A 3-year, full-time post-secondary program leading to a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology: Offered at the College of Medical Laboratory Technology at the Institute for Medical Research, University of Malaya,

the University of Science, Malaysia and MARA Institute of Technology. Graduates from these programs can proceed to the degree courses at local and foreign universities.

2) A 3-year, post-secondary Degree in Biomedical Sciences:Offered at the University of Malaya, the National University of Malaysia and the University of Putra Malaysia.

.

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1) Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology:Applicants must have the Malaysian Certificate in Education or equivalent with a PASS in Bahasa Malaysia (Malay), English, and a CREDIT PASS in the following subjects: Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology and Physics.

2) Degree in Biomedical Sciences:Candidates must have passed the Higher School Certificate (Sciences) matriculation program or equivalent) with a grade of C or better in 3 of the 4 science subjects (Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology). Candidates with a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Sciences will also be considered for entrance to Year 1 of the degree program.


The 3-year full-time Diploma course is offered in 6 semesters. Prior to 1994, the first part of the program, which consisted of 4 semesters, was polyvalent; the final 2 semesters offered bivalent specialization. Since 1993 the program has been generalized with no specialization in the 3rd year. Subjects covered are Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology and Parasitology, Histology, Immunology, Hematology, Blood Transfusion, Anatomic Pathology and Cytology. Students serve a full-time laboratory internship of 6 weeks each in Anatomic Pathology & Cytology Techniques, Basic Clinical Chemistry, Hematology and Blood Transfusion Techniques, and Diagnostic Microbiology & Parasitology. (See sample curriculum.)

Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences is also polyvalent. (See sample curriculum)

6. CURRICULUM

3-year Diploma program in Medical Laboratory TechnologySchool of Medical Laboratory Technology

Institute for Medical Research, Jalan Pahang, Kuala LumpurPrior to 1993

YEAR 1Semester 1 (Basic Sciences) Semester 2 (MLTI - Introduction)Subject SubjectBiological Chemistry Chemical PathologyAnatomy/Physiology Medical MicrobiologyLaboratory Instrumentation & Physics Medical ParasitologyStatistics/Mathematics & Basic Computing I HematologyGenetics Blood TransfusionImmunology CytologyIntroduction to Pathology Anatomical Pathology

YEAR 2Semester 3 (Field I - Log Book) Semester 4 (MLTII - Advanced)Chemical Pathology Chemical PathologyMedical Microbiology Medical MicrobiologyMedical Parasitology Medical ParasitologyHematology HematologyBlood Transfusion Blood TransfusionCytology CytologyAnatomical Pathology Anatomical Pathology

Evaluation and Counseling

YEAR 3 (Specialization Year)Semester 5 (Field II - Advanced) Semester 6 (MLTIII - Specialization)Subject SubjectIn one of the following specialized bivalent modules:Module 1 - Chemical Pathology & Nutrition A. One of the specialization modules as in Sem. 5Module 2 - Medical Microbiology & Parasitology B. Basic Computing IIModule 3 - Hematology & Blood Transfusion C. ManagementModule 4 - Anatomical Pathology & Cytology

Examination for the Diploma

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3-year Diploma program in Medical Laboratory TechnologyUniversity of Malaya Medical Centre

Prior to 1993 Years 1 and 2 Year 3 Semester 1/3 Semester 2/4 Semester 5 & 6 Activity Weeks Weeks Weeks Teaching and Laboratory Postings 18 18 40Revision and Self Study 2 2 4Examinations/Tests 2 2 2Semester Break 2 6 6 Total 24 28 52

(3-Year Diploma prior to 1993 cont.)

Semester 1Module Hours Contact Hours Per Semester Laboratory Techniques I 70Foundation Studies I 90Biological Chemistry I 70Anatomy and Physiology I 50Molecular Biology & Genetics I 30Cell Biology 50Laboratory Computering 50 Total 410 Laboratory Postings* 240

Semester 2 Laboratory Techniques II 70Foundation Studies II 90Biological Chemistry II 70Anatomy and Physiology II 50Molecular Biology & Genetics II 30Immunology 70Statistics and Data Processing 30 Total 410 Laboratory Postings * 240

Semester 3Clinical Biochemistry I 60Histopathology and Cytology I 60Hematology I 60Blood Transfusion I 60Medical Microbiology I 60Laboratory Animal Sciences I 50Parasitology I 50Communication Skills 30 Total 430 Laboratory postings * 240

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Semester 4Module Contact Hours Per Semester Clinical Biochemistry II 60Histopathology and Cytology II 60Hematology II 60Blood Transfusion II 60Medical Microbiology II 60Laboratory Animal Sciences II 50Parasitology II 50 Total 400 Laboratory Postings * 240

* Laboratory posting starts with day one. The time table is arranged so that the students will attend lectures, tutorials and practicals in the morning and the laboratory postings in the afternoon.

Year 3- Semesters 5 & 6Candidates must specialize in one of the following packages in Semester 5 and 6. The acceptance of candidates to study in any one of the package specializations is subject to the approval of the sponsoring institution/ body. The School reserves the right not to offer any of the package specializations in any given year.

Theory Laboratory Package Subject ( Hours ) posting(weeks)1. Anatomic Pathology Histopathology 45 16 Cytology 36 14 Electron Microscopy 27 102. Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemisrty 108 40 Clinical Chemistry3. Experimental Physiology Physiology 40 15 and Pharmacology Pharmacology 40 28 Animal Laboratory Sciences 28 104. Hematology and Hematology 54 20 Blood Transfusion Blood Transfusion 54 205. Medical Microbiology Bacteriology 30 12 Virology 30 10 Mycology 18 8 Parasitology 30 106. Nuclear Medicine Nuclear Medicine 108 407. In-vivo Technology Cardiovascular & Respiratory Function Technology 27 10 Clinical Neurophysiology & Electroencephalography 27 10 Surgical Perfusion Technology 27 10 Renal Dialysis Technology 27 10

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3-year Diploma program in Medical Laboratory TechnologyUniversity of Malaya Medical Centre

1994 to presentYear 1- Semester 1 Lectures Prac. Classes-

InternshipSubject Contact

HrsCredit Hrs Contact

HrsCredit Hrs

Basic Biochemistry 1 30 2 45 1Basic Anatomy 30 2 - -Cell Biol & Intro. Genetics 30 2 - -Basic Lab. Techniques 1 15 1 45 1Lab. Math. & Basic Stats. 1 15 1 45 1Basic Computing Skills 15 1 45 1Total 135 9 180 4Special Lab Internship 4 weeks

Semester 2Basic Biochemistry II 30 2 45 1Basic Human Physiology 30 2 - -Intro. Microbiology 15 1 45 1Intro. Parasitology 15 1 45 1Basic Lab. Techniques II 15 1 45 1Basic Histological Tech. 15 1 45 1Total 120 8 225 5Special Semester 8 weeks

Year 2 Semester 3Intro. Cellular Pathology !5 1 45 1Basic Immunology 15 1 45 1Intro. Anal. Biochem. 30 2 45 1Microbial Infection 30 2 - -Bacterial Pathogens 15 1 45 1Lab. Math.& Basic Stats II 15 1 45 5Total 120 8 225 5Special Lab. Internship 4 weeksSemester 4Basic Prac. Hematology 15 1 45 1Basic Histopathology & Cytology Techniques

15 1 45 1

Basic Clinical Chemistry I 15 1 45 1Prac. Blood Transfusion 15 1 45 1Total 60 4 180 4Special Semester 4 weeksYear 3 -Semester 5Anatomic Pathology & Cytology Techniques

15 1 45 1

Basic Clinical Chem. II 30 2 90 2Hematology & Blood Transfusion Techniques

15 1 45 1

Introductory Diagnostics Microbio. & Parasitology

15 1 90 2

Total 75 5 270 6

Semester 6Core Lecture: Prin. of Lab. Practice

15 1 30 1

*Full-time lab. Internship 6 weeks in each area

24 weeks 12

*Course ComponentsLaboratory Internship in each of the 4 disciplinesAssigned Laboratory Exercises and DiscussionsOral Presentations of assigned exercises.Laboratory InternshipsDuring the mid-semester breaks and special semesters, the students will be assigned to various laboratories for

internships that are appropriate to the stage of their training program.

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B.Sc. in Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Malaya Medical Centre - 1996

Level 1-Semester 1Course CreditsFoundational Anatomy: Intermediate Course 3Intro. Human Physiology 3Intro. Biochemistry I 3Essential Medical Microbiology 3General English I* 2

Total credits 14Semester 2Intro. Biochemistry II 3Cell Biology & Genetics 3Intro. Course in Biostatistics 2Intro. Course in Computer Science* 2Basic Parasitology 2General English II * 2

Total credits 14ElectivesBasic Laboratory Techniques and Procedures I & II

2 each

Med. Laboratory Techniques I-Histological Techniques

2

Med. Laboratory Techniques II- Anal. Biochem.

3

Laboratory Mathematics and Statistics 2University Courses 2-4Co-curricular Course 2Special SemesterElective Laboratory Posting (6 weeks) 3* These courses will be offered on pass/fail basisLevel 2- Semester 1Core CoursesPrinciples of Epidemiology & Research Design

1

Cellular & Molecular Genetics 3Basic Course in General Pathology 3Introductory Course in Immunology 2Principles of Gen’l Pharmacology & Toxicology

3

Nuclear Medicine Technology: Basic Course 2English for Specific Purposes I 2Modular Course*Microbial Infection 2Intro. Diagnostic Microbiology I 3 Total Credits from Core and Modular Courses 21Semester 2Core CoursesEnglish for Specific Purposes II 2Modular Courses*Principles of Molecular Biology 3Courses in Diagnostic Clinical Chemistry 3Basic Course in Systems Pathology 1Basic Course in Practical Anatomic Pathology 3Basic Course in Practical Hematology &

Technology 5

Introductory Diagnostic Microbiology II 3 Total Credits from Core Modular Courses 18

Elective CoursesMedical Physiology & Pharmacology 3Nuclear Medicine Technology: Intermediate Course

3

Parasites of Med. Importance & Diagnostic Technique

3

University Course 2 -4Co-curricular Course 2* Students are to select 4 of the modular subjects (200 level) or achieve minimum credit of 13.

Special SemesterResearch Project in Biomedical Sciences 10Level 3 - Semester 1Core CoursesPrinciples and Practice of Management 2Modular Courses

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Application and Advances in Molecular Biology

3

Advanced in Prac. Hematology & Transfusion Technology.

3

Advanced Medical Microbiology I 2 Total Credits from core and modular courses 10

Semester 2Modular CoursesAdvanced Course in Practical Anatomic Pathology

4

Diagnostic Clinical Chemistry II 4Advanced Medical Microbiology II 2

Total credits from modular courses 10

Elective CoursesAdvanced Diagnostic Microbiology I & 2 3 eachApplied Immunology 3Advances in Cellular Pathology 2Advanced Physiology & Pharmacology 4Nuclear Medicine Technology: Advanced Course

4

Advanced Course in Diagnostic Parasitology 4Biochemical Toxicology 2Advanced Enzymology 2Applied and Industrial Biochemistry 2Human Resource Management 1Immunogenetics 2University Courses 2-4Co-curricular Course 2

Year 3 students are to select at least 4 of the above Modular courses: Minimum credit value of 10.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

The College of Medical Laboratory TechnologyInstitute for Medical ResearchJalan Pahang, 50588 Kuala Lumpur

Department of Allied Health SciencesUniversity of Malaya Medical Centre.University of Malay50603 Kuala Lumpur

Faculty of Allied Health SciencesNational University of MalaysiaJalan Raja Muda50603 Kuala Lumpur

Medical Laboratory Technology ProgramSchool of Medical SciencesUniversity of Science, MalaysiaKubang Kerian16150 Kota Bharu, Kelantan

Dept. of Biomedical & Health SciencesUniversity Putra Malaysia43400 Serdang, Selangor

School of Arts and ScienceMonash University Malaysia2 Jalan Kolej, Bandar Sunway,46150 Petaling Jaya,Selangor D.E., Malaysia.

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Dept. of Med. Lab. Tech.School of Allied SciencesMARA Institute of Technology40450 Shah AlamSelangor


(a) Accreditation - The training of Medical Laboratory Technologists is carried out by the Ministry of Health and the local universities. The programs are tailored to the requirements of the universities and accreditation is accorded by these training institutions. The Ministry of Health will be tabling a bill in the Parliament to accredit allied health workers and also medical laboratories. When it is passed it will provide the guidelines for licensure, certification and registration.

(b) Licensure/Certification/Registration - None.

(c) Professional Association -

President/Secretary Malaysian Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences c/o Institute for Medical Research 50588 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

9. EQUIVALENCY/ RECIPROCITY

Unlike other allied health personnel, Medical Laboratory Technologists have been trained in Malaysia for a long time. Although staff shortages have been reported, technologists have never been recruited from overseas. Foreign qualifications in Medical Laboratory Sciences have been accredited.

Malaysian Medical Laboratory Technologists have been admitted to practice and to further their education in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States.

For further information contact:

President/SecretaryMalaysian Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences

C/o Institute for Medical ResearchJalan Pahang

50588 Kuala LumpurMalaysia

Kuala Lumpuror

R. Saminathan, F.M.I.M.L.S.Science Laboratory

Monash University Malaysia2 Jalan Kolej, Bandar Sunway,

46150 Petaling JayaSelangor D.E. Malaysia.

Fax : 56360622e-mail: [email protected]

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MAURITIUS


School Certificate1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Higher School Certificate/Baccalauréat

primary school secondary school1 2* Medical Laboratory Technology

Certificate**

3* 4* Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology/Diplôme en Technologie Médicale

Note:* = Part-time program** = This program has been discontinued from 1983.


Students begin their school education at the age of five and attend six years of primary school followed by 7 years at the secondary level, which is divided into a 3-year junior secondary program, a 2-year program leading to the School Certificate and an additional 2 years for the Higher School Certificate.

Prior to 1972, students interested in medical laboratory work were recruited by the Ministry of Health to undertake a 2-year laboratory science training program in Great Britain. At the end of the 2 years, students who successfully passed an examination were awarded an Associate of the Institute of Medical Laboratory Science (AIMLS) or the Higher National Certificate.

In 1972 the University of Mauritius instituted a program, modeled on the Institute of Medical Laboratory Science in London, which led to a Diploma of Medical Laboratory Technology at the end of 4 years part-time study. The program also led to a Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology, which was issued at the end of the second year examination at the University of Mauritius. The certificate enabled the trainee technicians to be promoted to the grade of Junior Laboratory Technician. This grade was abolished in 1983. Those technicians who pass either the second or third year but fail their Diploma examinations at the end of their fourth year, can be employed as Laboratory Assistants, which is basically the same as the older Junior Laboratory Technician position. Applicants to this program had to hold a Higher School Certificate as Student Laboratory Trainees. In the first year the program focussed on Biology, Chemistry, Physics and an Introduction to Medical Laboratory Techniques.


There is now only one educational level for Medical Technology personnel. It entails 4 years basically part-time study at the University of Mauritius, leading to the Diploma of Medical Laboratory Technology (Diplôme de Technologie). In the first year the students attend the university full-time except on Saturdays. In the following 3 years they attend the university 3 days per week. In the remaining 3 days of the week they do in-service training at different laboratories on the island designated by the University. To qualify for entry to this program the student must hold the Higher School Certificate following 13 years of schooling. The student is employed as a Student Laboratory Trainee (“Etudiant en technologie médicale”).

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Admission to the 4-year Medical Laboratory Technology program requires a pass on the Higher Secondary School Certificate/Baccalauréat, following 13 years of schooling, GCE ‘Advanced’ Level or equivalent qualification. Entrance is competitive.


Training in Medical Laboratory Technology is polyvalent and includes: Microbiology, Parasitology, Chemical Pathology, Hematology, Blood Transfusion, Histopathology.Students can specialize in the above subjects in their 3rd and 4th years. Successful completion of the Medical Laboratory Technology program allows a graduate to work as technologist. They may focus in their fields of specialization (Biochemistry, Microbiology, Hematology, or Serology).

Depending on experience there are 4 levels of employment (not including the Student Laboratory Trainee): 1) Laboratory technician (Technologiste Médicale) 2) Senior Laboratory Technician (Technologiste Supérieur) 3) Principal Laboratory Technician (Principal Technicien) 4) Chief Technician (Le Chief Technicien)

6. CURRICULUMUniversity of Mauritius

4-year part-time Medical Laboratory Technology Program

Years 1 and 2 Hours lecture Hours PracticalBiology (including Physiology) 120 120Chemistry (General, Organic & Physical) 120 120Biochemistry 180 --Physics & Instrumentation 120 120Mathematics 90Medical Laboratory Sciences: Hematology & Blood Group Serology 105 Chemical Pathology 60 Microbiology &Parasitology 105 Histopathology 60

Years 3 and 4 Hours lecture Hours PracticalCell Biology/Human Physiology 240*Microbiology 48 hrs minor + 72 if major*Parasitology 48 hrs minor + 72 if major*Chemical Pathology 48 hrs minor + 72 if major*Hematology 48 hrs minor + 72 if major*Blood Transfusion 48 hrs minor + 72 if major*Histopathology 48 hrs minor + 72 if major

* Specialization in principal subject plus an additional subject (For example: Biochemistry as Major subject, Histopathology as Minor subject).

Students are required to pass examinations in the subjects studied each year before proceeding to the next year. At the end of 4 years they take examinations supervized by a member from the Institute of Medical Laboratory Science in London. The MLT Program is accredited by the University of Mauritius.

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7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

University of MauritiusRéduitMauritius

Practical training is undertaken at:

Major Laboratories Minor LaboratoriesThe Pathology Laboratory Pathology LaboratoryS.S.R.N.H. Hospital Mahebourgh HospitalPamplemousses MahebourgMauritius Mauritius

The Pathology Laboratory Pathology LaboratoryAbdool Galfoar Jeetoo Hospital Souillac HospitalPort-Louis, Maritius Souillac

The Pathology Laboratory Pathology LaboratoryPandit J. Nehru Hospital E.N.T. HospitalRose-Belle, Mauritius Vacoas

Central Health LaboratoryCandosMauritius


Technicians who pass the 2nd or 3rd year of the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology can be employed as Laboratory Assistants. Those who complete the 4-year program and obtain the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology may practice as Medical Laboratory Technologists in government laboratories. Those who wish to run a private laboratory must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Health.(a) Accreditation - Medical Laboratory Technology programs are accredited by the University of Mauritius and the Ministry of Health.

(b) Professional Associations - The Medical Laboratory Technicians Association Central Laboratory Candos, Mauritius

Association Internationnel des Techniciens Biologistes Mauricien c/o Ramduth Teeluckdharry Calabasses Near Gov’t School, Mauritius


The U.K. Higher National Certificate, degrees in Sciences and diplomas in MLT from the United States and European countries are recognized qualifications to practice as a Medical Laboratory Technician in Mauritius.

Graduates from the Mauritian Medical Laboratory Technology Program have had opportunities for further education at universities abroad. For example, until 1996, Diploma holders were eligible to obtain a Master of Science in Biomedical Science in the U.K. (British universities) after either a 1- or 2-year course.

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Association Internationale des technicians Biologistes- MauritiusCalbasses, near Government School

MauritiusTel: 230 202 3000 230 212 5265

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NEPAL


Prior to 1990

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 School Leaving Certificateprimary Secondary

Intermediate Level 1 2 Certificate Intermediate Level (I.Sc.)Proficiency Certificate Level 1 2.5 Cert. Med. Lab Technology

.5 Bachelor in Med. Lab. Technology (BMLT)

Since 1990

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 School Leaving CertificatePrimary Secondary

11 12 Higher Sec. School Leaving Cert.Higher Sec.

1 2 Intermediate Cert. in Science (I.Sc.).5 Proficiency Cert. Med. Lab

Technology⁄1 2 3 Bachelor Med. Lab.

Technology (BMLT)*

* Prior to 1996 the Bachelor’s degree required only 2 years.


Education in Nepal generally begins when a child reaches 6 years of age. Primary education lasts three years and until 1990, was followed by seven years of secondary education. Students who successfully completed this level and received the School Leaving Certificate could go on to the Proficiency Certificate Level (PCL), leading to a Certificate of Medical Laboratory Technology after 2.5 years. To receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Laboratory Technology (BMLT), students with the PCL had to successfully complete another two years study at the University level.

In 1990, educational policy changed. Previously admission to the Certificate level program had been the School Leaving Certificate (10 years schooling),and the program leading to the Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology was 2 1/2 years. After 1990 when the 12 year program of primary/ secondary school was introduced, students admitted to the Proficiency Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology study needed only 1.5 years to complete the program.

Medical laboratory training began around 1960 with training in laboratory procedures that would help pathologists. Certificate level academic programs in Health Laboratory Science were introduced at the Central Campus of Tribhuvan University in 1972 when the Institute of Medicine was established; the 2-year Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Technology (BMLT) was introduced in 1987. In 1996 it became a 3-year program.


There are two educational levels for Medical Technology personnel:

1) The Proficiency Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology Previous to 1990 this program lasted 2.5 years. Since 1990 it takes 1.5 years following the School Leaving Certificate or Intermediate Certificate in Science (I.Sc.) (10 + 2 or 12 years) . The Proficiency Certificate is divided into two parts : one year of academic study followed by 6 months practical experience. During the first year the student studies

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basic concepts in Microbiology, Parasitology, Hematology, Histopathology and Biochemistry. Primary Health Care and Maternal and Child Health are also taught. An annual examination tests the knowledge and skill of each student. During the last 6 months students do Health Laboratory Technique Field Practice. A practical and oral examination at the end assesses competency to become a laboratory technician.

2) The Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Technology (BMLT) Prior to 1996 the BMLT, which required the Proficiency Certificate for admission, took two years of study and working experience. Since 1996 the University program has required three years after the Proficiency Certificate or the Intermediate Certificate. During this time, students take classes and work in a laboratory to learn prescribed skills in the course and to run day to day laboratory experiments.


1) The Proficiency Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology Until 1990 admission to the program leading to the Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology required the School Leaving Certificate Since 1990 admission requires the Higher Secondary School Leaving Certificate or Intermediate Certificate in Science (I.Sc.).

There is a single entrance examination and admission is based on merit.

2) Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Technology Admission to the BMLT program requires:

a) The Proficiency Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology , orb) The Higher Secondary School Certificate or the Intermediate Certificate in Science. A qualifying examination is

required and admission is on a merit basis.


Medical Laboratory Technology education is polyvalent. Those working for the Proficiency Certificate undertake courses in Microbiology, Parasitology, Hematology, Histopathology and Biochemistry. Studies at the BMLT level include: Medical-microbiology, Clinical Biochemistry, Hematology, including Blood Banking, Histopathology and Cytology.

There are two levels of employment in Medical Laboratory Science:1) Technician.

Those with the Proficiency Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology may work under supervision of the Chief Technician in a hospital laboratory.

2) Technologist. Those with the Bachelor in Medical Laboratory Technology may perform routine and special laboratory investigations on clinical and non-clinical subjects independently; interpret results and explain principles; assist and take part in research activities; participate in teaching/learning activities; set up zonal-level medical laboratories; perform managerial work.

6. CURRICULUM

Proficiency Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology:

During the first year the student studies basic concepts in Microbiology, Parasitology , Hematology, Histopathology and Biochemistry, Primary Health Care and Maternal and Child health. An annual examination tests the knowledge and skill of each student. During the last 6 months students do Health Laboratory Technique Field Practice. A practical and oral examination at the end assesses competency to become a laboratory technician.

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Prior to 1996

Bachelor in Medical Technology (BMLT) The BMLT course is divided into 4 major subjects: Medical Microbiology, Clinical Biochemistry, Hematology, Histopathology & Cytology. Each of the subjects has a 100 full mark in each academic year.

2-Year Med. Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Technology (BMLT)Tribhuvan University 1995

Subject U.S. Equiv. Credits U.S. Equiv. Credits Year 1 Year 2Medical Microbiology 8 8Clinical Biochemisrty 8 8Hematology 8 8Histopathology & 8 8 Cytology 8 8 Total 32 32

Evaluation methodology: First Year Second YearInternal Assessment 20 marks 20 marksFinal Examination 80 marks 80 marks

Grading -Pass marks: Theory 50% and Practical 60%Since 1996

Bachelor in Medical Technology (BMLT) The BMLT course is divided into 4 major subjects: Medical Microbiology, Clinical Biochemistry, Hematology, Histopathology & Cytology. Each of the subjects has a 100 full mark in each academic year.

3-Year Med. Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Technology (BMLT)Tribhuvan University 1996

Year 1,2 &3 Subject Theory Practice Total U.S. equivalent credits Microbiology Bacteriology & Immunology √ √ 4 Parasitology √ √ 2 Virology √ √ 1 Mycology √ √ 1 Clinical Biochemisrty √ √ 8 Hematology Hematology √ √ 6 Blood Banking √ √ 2Histopathology &Cytology Histopathology √ √ 4 (including Histo-technology) Cytopathlogy √ √ 2 Anatomy & Physiology √ √ 2

Total each year 32 Pass marks: Theory 50% and Practical 60%

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7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

As of 1996 only one institution provides Medical Laboratory Technology programs: Institute of Medicine Tribhuvan University Maharajgung Kathmandu, Nepal


a) AccreditationTribuhavan University accredits the Medical Laboratory Technology programs .

b) Licensing and CertificationNepal Health Professional Council has been formed since 2000. This council is licensing body in Nepal for the health laboratory professional.

c) Professional Association Nepal Association for Medical Laboratory Science Department of Microbiology TU Teaching College P.O. Box 3578 Kathmandu, Nepal


Foreign-trained medical Laboratory personnel can practice in Nepal, but are supposed to get permission from the Ministry of Health of the Government of Nepal.


N.P. Thapaliya, Assistant Registrar Tribhuvan University, Institute of Medicine

P.O. Box 1524Maharajgunj, Kathmandu NEPAL

Tel: 4 12040, 4-10911, 4-13729Fax: 4 18186

or

Prof. Nhuchhe Ratna TuladharTribhuvan University, Micobiology Lab.

P.O. Box 1524Maharajgunj, Kathmandu NEPAL

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NIGERIA


G.C.E. ‘O’ Level/ W.A.S.C.S.S.S.C.E.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 G.C.E. ‘A’ Level/ primary school secondary school 13

(+ J.A.M.B. Exam) Bachelor of Medical

Universities 1 2 3 4 5 Laboratory Science Degree(B.M.L.S.)

6 Associate of the I.M.L.T(A.I.M.L.T.) Diploma *

Bachelor of Science DegreeUniversities 1 2 3 4 (B.Sc.)

Conversion CourseSchools of Medical 2 /3 yrs Associate of the I.M.L.T. Laboratory Technology (A.I.M.L.T.) Diploma

Associate of the I.M.L.T.Schools of Medical 1 2 3 4 (A.I.M.L.T.) Diploma **Laboratory Technology

Fellow of the I.M.L.T.Schools of Medical 1 2 (F.I.M.L.T.) DiplomaLaboratory Technology

Note:G.C.E. ‘O’ Level = General Certificate of Education ‘Ordinary’ Level (Cambridge) G.C.E. ‘A’ Level = General Certificate of Education ‘Advanced’ Level (Cambridge) W.A.S.C. = West African School Certificate ExaminationsS.S.S.C.E. = Senior Secondary School Certificate ExaminationsJ.A.M.B. Exam = Joint Admission and Matriculation Board ExaminationsB.M.L.S. = Bachelor of Medical Laboratory ScienceI.M.L.T. = Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology - Nigeria* = 1-year supervised internship** = Plans are underway to phase out this program and introduce a 5-year direct A.I.M.L.T. program in 1997

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In Nigeria, the training of Medical Laboratory Scientists is a 5-year Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (B.M.L.S.) program which began in the mid-1980s, and is now available at four universities. Successful completion of this program plus one year of supervised internship leads to the qualification of Associate of the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology (A.I.M.L.T). Admission requires completion of secondary school, success at the Nigeria Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Examination, and a minimum of 5 credit passes in Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology and English Language at the General Certificate of Education Examinations (G.C.E.) at ‘Ordinary’ level/ West African School Certificate Examinations (W.A.S.C.); OR the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examinations (S.S.S.C.E.). This admission requirement is the same for other health professions such as Medicine and Pharmacy.

There are also 10 Schools of Medical Laboratory Technology running a 4-year A.I.M.L.T. Diploma program. The admission requirement for these schools is the same as for the university programs. This pathway is currently being seriously considered for gradual phasing-out in line with the trend in other parts of the world. Plans are underway to commence a 5-year program for the direct A.I.M.L.T. program by the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology in 1997. The Schools of Medical Laboratory Technology also run the 2-year Fellowship program (Fellow of the I.M.L.T.) which may be by written examinations or a thesis. They also provide a 24 or 36-month conversion program for B.Sc. applied science graduates desiring to become Medical Laboratory Scientists.

Until 1968, when the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology of Nigeria (l.M.L.T.-Nigeria) was established, the training of Medical Laboratory Technologists in Nigeria followed the system in the United Kingdom. The training was both organized and supervised by the Institute of Medical Laboratory Science in London. This meant that the Nigerian Medical Technologists either took their full program of training in the United Kingdom or started their training program in Nigeria by taking the examinations of the I.M.L.S., London, up to the Intermediate level, after which the final training was undertaken in approved laboratories in the United Kingdom.

Since the establishment of the I.M.L.T.-Nigeria, the full educational program is completed in Nigeria under the general supervision of the Institute, which awards the diplomas to successful candidates. The I.M.L.T. is a government statutory body established by Decree No. 56 of 1968, which is currently being processed for amendment. In conjunction with the Nigeria University Commission, the I.M.L.T.-Nigeria also accredits the degree program in Medical Laboratory Science.


There are 4 levels of Medical Laboratory Science training:

(i). Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science - requires 5 years of undergraduate training.

(ii). The Associate of the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology - requires 4 years of undergraduate training or 2-3 years for holders of B.Sc. in fields related to Medical Laboratory Science at a School of Medical Technology. Graduates of Medical Laboratory Sciences from Nigerian Universities are required to undergo 1-year supervised internship prior to registration as Associate Members of the I.M.L.T. of Nigeria.(iii). Fellow of the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology - requires a minimum of 2 years of study following the B.M.L.S./A.I.M.L.T.

(iv). M.Sc., M.Phil. & Ph.D. in various fields of Medical Laboratory Science - requires 1-4 years of full-time studies following the B.M.L.S./A.I.M.L.T. Specific duration is dependent on degree in view.


(i) Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science-• Pass at the credit level in the following subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics and English Language at the Senior Secondary School Certificate, G.C.E. ‘O’ Level or

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W.A.S.C. examination, AND• Pass at the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (J.A.M.B.) Examination, OR• Direct entry for B.Sc. holders or 3 passes at the ‘Advanced’ Level G.C.E. in Physics, Biology and Chemistry, with a credit pass in English at the ‘O’ Level.(ii) Associate of the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology-• Pass at the credit level in the following subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics and English Language at the Senior Secondary School Certificate, G.C.E. or W.A.S.C. examination.• Holders of B.Sc. in fields related to Medical Laboratory Science are admitted for 2-3 years of training and examination.(iii) Fellow of the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology-• Admission to the 2-year program for the Fellowship diploma requires at least 2 years post admittance as B.M.L.S. or A.I.M.L.T, and success in examination.


The training of Nigerian Medical Technologists is specialized and the respective degrees or diplomas are awarded in the following specialities: Histopathology, Chemical Pathology, Hematology and Blood Group Serology, Bacteriology, Parasitology and Virology. At both the degree and diploma levels, speciality training follows coursework and clinical postings in all laboratory concentrations. With this diploma/degree the Medical Laboratory Scientist can work in Medical and Veterinary Laboratories, Universities, Research Institutes or in any relevant industry.

The Government, through the Ministry of Health, accords professional recognition to Medical Laboratory Science as a distinct health profession in its health delivery system. This places qualified Medical Laboratory Scientists on the same salary level as other university graduates on joining the govemment service. Special remunerations like call duty allowance, hazard, inducement, etc., gives the Medical Laboratory Scientist an edge over many other graduates.

In addition to the Ministry of Health, other major employers of Medical Laboratory Scientists include the universities, Ministries of Science & Technology, Agriculture & Natural Resources, various research institutes and relevant areas in industries like the brewery etc.

There is a large increase in the self-employment trend of Medical Laboratory Scientists in areas as diverse as private clinical diagnostic laboratories, manufacture of laboratory equipment, production and sales of laboratory supplies through management consulting to general business. This has been of tremendous benefit to the Nigerian populace, especially in the provision of better health care, since the governmental health institutions cannot always cope with demands.

A large number of Medical Laboratory Scientists have acquired higher degrees (M.Sc., M.Phil., Ph.D.). This acquisition has not led to abandonment of normal duties. It has, rather, aided operational research. It is also now possible for a Medical Laboratory Scientist to become a director of a group without changing career.

6. CURRICULUM

The broad philosophy of medical education in Nigeria as it affects Medical Laboratory Science is:(a) to provide an indepth scientific and professional background for the production of Medical Laboratory Scientists who would be capable of working anywhere in Nigeria, especially with reference to Primary Health Care;(b) to produce Medical Laboratory Scientists who would satisfy internationally recognizable standards and who could undertake further training towards full specialization; and(c) to produce Medical Laboratory Scientists with sufficient management ability to play leadership role in training and the practice of laboratory science.

University education is important to the growth of any profession. Optimal professional Medical Laboratory Science education can best be achieved in the University with facilities to provide a foundation for general education in the various

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sciences and humanities. Medical Laboratory Science is a very dynamic profession with continuous emergence of new procedures and instruments which justify adequate orientation for operational research by practitioners. The graduates are therefore expected to keep pace with changing trends.

The Medical Laboratory Scientist is expected to:(a) perform effectively in Hospital Diagnostic Services, Preventive and Public Health Services, Research, Academics and in Quality Assurance in industries;(b) function independently or in collaboration with other members of the health team in the care of individuals and groups in the community in primary, secondary and tertiary health services;(c) produce biological and diagnostic reagents as well as fabricate and maintain laboratory equipment.

Sample Curriculum

(i) Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (B.M.L.S.)*

YEAR 1 Course Title Credit Units 1st SemesterIntroductory Biology I 3Introductory Physics I 3Introductory Chemistry I 3General Mathematics 3Nigeria Heritage 3Use of English I 3Basic Psychology 2 Total 20 YEAR 1 Course Title Credit Units 2nd SemesterIntroductory Biology II 3Introductory Physics II 3Genetics and Cytology 3Use of English II 3Philosophy and Logic 2Introduction to Computer Sciences 3Introductory Chemistry II 3 Total 20

YEAR 2 Course Title Credit Units 1st SemesterGross Anatomy I 2Gross Anatomy II 2Introduction to Biochemistry 2Chemistry of Biological Molecules 2Metabolism and Bioenergetics 2General Principles of Physiology, Blood 2 and Body FluidsRespiratory and Cardiovascular Systems 2Introduction to Medical Laboratory Science I 2 Total 16

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2nd SemesterHistology and Gross Anatomy 2Nutritional Biochemistry 2Special Topics in Biochemistry 2Gastrointestinal and Reproductive Endocrinology 3Nerves & Autonomic Nervous Systems 3Introduction to Medical Laboratory Science II 4Introduction to Medical Laboratory Science III 2 Total 18

YEAR 3 Course Title Credit Units 1st SemesterBiomedical Electronics 3General Microbiology 3Pharmacology 3Medical Laboratory Science Ethics 2Medical Physics 3Biometrics 3Laboratory Posting 3 Total 20 YEAR 3 Course Title Credit Units 2nd SemesterComputer Applications 3General Pathology 3Laboratory Posting 3Instrumentation 4Immunology I 3Laboratory Management & Organization 3 Total 19

YEAR 4 Course Title Credit Units 1st SemesterBasic Chemical Pathology 3Basic Parasitology/Medical Entomology 3Basic Hematology 3Basic Blood Group Serology 3Basic Histopathology 3Virology 2Basic Bacteriology/Mycology 3Immunology II 2 Total 22 2nd SemesterClinical Posting in all Sections (Built-in Internship) 12 Total 12

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YEAR 5CHEMICAL PATHOLOGY (Specialty) Course Title Credit Units Ist SemesterChemical Pathology I 3Chemical Pathology II 2Chemical Pathology III 3Research Methodology 2Enzymology 2Project 3Laboratory Posting 3 Total 18

CHEMICAL PATHOLOGY (Specialty) Course Title Credit Units 2nd SemesterEndocrinology 2Toxicology 2Advanced Chemical Pathology Techniques 3Seminar 2Project 3Laboratory Posting 3 Total 15 HISTOPATHOLOGY (Specialty) 1st SemesterHistopathology I 3Histopathology II 2Histopathology III 3Exfoliative Cytology 2Research Methodology 2Laboratory Posting 3Project 3 Total 18 YEAR 5HISTOPATHOLOGY (Specialty) Course Title Credit Units 2nd SemesterSeminar 2Project 3Cytogenetics 2Advanced Histopathology Techniques & Embalment 3Museum Laboratory Techniques 3Laboratory Posting 3 Total 15 HEMATOLOGY/BLOOD GROUP SEROLOGY (Specialty) 1st SemesterHematology I 3Hematology II 2Blood Group Serology I 3Blood Group Serology II 2Research Methods 3Project 3Laboratory Posting 3 Total 18

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2nd SemesterProject 3Seminar 2Laboratory Posting 3Cytogenetics 2Advanced Hematological Techniques 3Advanced Blood Group Serology Techniques 2 Total 15

MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY/PARASITOLOGY (Specialty) Course Title Credit Units 1st SemesterMedical Microbiology I 3Medical Microbiology II 2Advanced Parasitology/Epidemiology 2Public Health Microbiology 3Project 3Laboratory Posting 3Research Methodology 2 Total 18 2nd SemesterMedical Mycology 2Pharmaceutical Micro. and Adv. Techniques 3Seminar 2Project 3Microbial Genetics 2Laboratory Posting 3 Total 15 * = The above curriculum is recommended I.A.M.L.T. curriculum, 1991, initiated at the University of Calabar 1995/96; Imo State University 1992/93; The University of Nigeria, and Rivers State University of Science and Technology 1993/94.

(ii) Associate of the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology (A.I.M.L.T.)

The 4-year, direct AIMLT program consists of lectures, seminars, practical classes/work, and a research project in the area of the specialty.The program is divided into 4 parts:Part 1 : 6 months full-time course in basic sciences after which there is an examination.Part 2 : 6 months full-time course at a university following success in Part 1. The subjects cover the basic sciences at an advanced level.Part 3 : 18 months in an approved medical laboratory with lectures and practical in all areas of Medical Laboratory Science. The practical experience is on a rotational basis to all the various disciplines in the laboratory.Part 4 : 18 months of theory and practice in the subject area of specialization.

Subject Hours of Lecture Part 1Use of English Language 60Introduction to Medical Sociology & Psychology 60Mathematics 60Statistics 60Chemistry 180Biology 180General Applied Science 90Physics 60

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Subject Hours of Lecture Part 2Anatomy 90Histology 60Biochemistry 150Physical Chemistry 90Pharmacology 90General Microbiology 90Introductory Computer Science 90Physiology 150Part 3Bacteriology Lectures, practicalsChemical Pathology and laboratoryHematology postings for threeBlood Group Serology terms of 6 monthsParasitology each.HistopathologyPart 4Advanced lectures, practicals, seminars,laboratory postings and research projectwork and presentation/oral defense in thearea of specialization

(iii) Fellow of the I.M.L.T.(F.I.M.L.T.)

The Fellowship of the Institute may be obtained by submission of an acceptable and successfully defended thesis by an Associate who has been a member for not less than 2 years at the time of enrollment, OR by examination.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

(i) B.M.L.S. Program DateDepartment of Medical Laboratory Science 1982/83College of MedicineUniversity of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu

Department of Medical Laboratory Science 1982/83Rivers State University of Science and TechnologyP.M.B. 5080, Port Harcourt

Department of Medical Laboratory Science 1983/84College of Medical SciencesUniversity of Calabar, P.M.B. 1115, Calabar

Department of Medical Laboratory Science 1992/93Imo State University, P.M.B. 2000, Owern

Some other Universities in Nigeria have plans to commence degree programs in Medical Laboratory Science.(ii) A.I.M.L.T. Diploma ProgramSchool of Medical Laboratory TechnologyLagos University Teaching HospitalSumlere, Lagos

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Federal School of Medical Laboratory TechnologyJos, Plateau State

School of Medical Laboratory TechnologyUniversity of Benin Teaching HospitalBenin, Edo State

School of Medical Laboratory TechnologyUniversity College HospitalIbadan

School of Medical Laboratory TechnologyObafemi Awolowo University Teaching HospitalIle-Ife

Federal College of Medical and Veterinary Laboratory ScienceNational Veterinary Research InstituteP.O. Box 19, Vom

School of Medical Laboratory TechnologyAhmadu Bello University Teaching HospitalZaria

School of Medical Laboratory TechnologyUniversity of Nigeria Teaching HospitalEnugu

School of Medical Laboratory TechnologyUniversity of Port-Harcourt Teaching HospitalPort-Harcourt, Rivers State

School of Medical Laboratory TechnologyUniversity of Calabar Teaching HospitalCalabar


(a) Accreditation - All the Departments of Medical Laboratory Science in the Universities and the Schools of Medical Laboratory Technology are run by the Government. The degree program is accredited by the Nigeria National Universities Commission in conjunction with the Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology (I.M.L.T.). The diploma program is accredited by the I.M.L.T

(b)Certification - Medical Laboratory Scientists are admitted, registered and licensed by the I.M.L.T.:

The Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology of Nigeria 8 Harvey Road (Block D) P.M.B. 1048, Yaba-Lagos Tel: 01-863368

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(c) Licensure - Medical Laboratory Scientists are admitted, registered and licensed by the I.M.L.T.

(d) Professional Association - The Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria is legally recognized, following its registration by relevant Government agencies. After several collective bargaining negotiations with the Government, the new designation of ‘Medical Laboratory Scientist’ is now acceptable and plans are at advanced stages to rename the Institute (see above):

Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria c/o Mr. A.O. Emeribe, KSM Department of Hematology College of Medical Sciences Tel: (087) 225814/222409 extn. 248 University of Calabar Fax: (010) 234-87-220143 Calabar


There is a government policy on reciprocity for foreign qualifications for eligibility to practice in Nigeria. The I.M.L.T - Nigeria assesses the transcripts and qualifications of foreign-trained Medical Technologists before registering them.

Qualifications from the United Kingdom and other countries are no longer accepted for direct registration in Nigeria. Each is evaluated on its merits and, when necessary, the applicant may be called upon to write the I.M.L.T. examination at the appropriate level.


The Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology of Nigeria8 Harvey Road (Block D), P.M.B. 1048

Yaba-Lagos, NigeriaTel: 01-863368

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(District Medical Officer of Health)P.O. Box 8041 - Dep0031 Oslo.

NORWAY


Prior to 2003

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Vitnemål (Certificate)primary

Høgskoleutdanning (College)------ 1 2 3 Bioingeniør(Medical LaboratoryTechnologist)

Videreutdanning for Bioingeniør-------------------Further education for Med. Lab. Tech.

1 Leading to positions in labs or teaching

---Laboratory DirectorDegree in Health/Hospital Administration-------

1 ‘Høgskole- kandidat i

Degree in Health Sciences-----------------------------

1 2 Cand. San.

Degree in Biochemistry and Cell Biology---------

1 2 3 4 Cand. Scient.

Since 2003

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Vitnemål (Certificate)primary

Bachelor in Biomedical Laboratory Science-----

1 Bioingeniør(Biomedical Laboratory Scientist)

Master Degree in Biomedical Science/applied sciences ----------------------------------------------------

1 2 Leading to positions in labs or teaching

Master Degree in Health/Hospital Administration --------------------------------------------

1 2 Laboratory Director

Ph. Degree in applied sciences----------------------

1 3 4

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Medical Laboratory Technology studies in Norway dates back to 1949 when the first study program were established in Drammen Hospital. Several hospitals followed successively during the next years. From 1962 to 1985 Medical Laboratory Technology Education was divided in two main directions of specialization. In Clinical Chemistry and Blood Banking, so called “Fysiokjemiker”, and in Microbiology, Immunology & Cell Pathology, called “(MIP)- ingeniør”. In 1985 the study programs were unified into one by a national curriculum, the program was lengthened to three years and the professional title changed to “Bioingeniør”. As of August 1991 the program took place in 6 colleges in Norway. In 1998 the curriculum was changed in accordance with a decree issued by the Ministry of Education, Research and Church Affairs on January 15.1998 pursuant to Section 46 (2) of Act No. 22 of May 12.1995 relating to Universities and Colleges.

During 2002-2003 study programs on higher level in Norway was changed according to the “Quality Reform” in higher education. Through this reform, the follow up of the Bologna Declaration has taken place. Legal changes have been made to fully implement the Bologna Declaration, such as new degree structure, The Diploma Supplement, implementing of European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) and a new grading system.

The current study program for the qualification of Bioingeniør (Biomedical Laboratory Scientist) is a 3-year program leading to a Bachelor Degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science. The program is available at 7 University Colleges in Norway.

After successful completion of this training, the student has several options for professional development:

l. Since 2003 master degree programs will be available to Biomedical Laboratory Scientists at almost all Universities and some of the University Colleges

2. Degrees in Biochemistry, Cell Biology or other subjects relevant to the field of Biomedical Laboratory Science have been offered since 1988.

3. The University Colleges will within due course offer special master degree programs in Biomedical Laboratory Science.

4. Those who wish to qualify for positions as laboratory managers may pursue degree programs in Health sciences and administration


Prior to 20031. Bioingeniør (Medical Laboratory Technologist)

A three-year, post-secondary theoretical and applied study program at one of 6 colleges (Bioingeniørhøgskoler). Of a total of 60 credits, practice must total 20 credits, and at least 7 credits must represent external practice in hospital laboratories. Examination project (thesis) equal to 4 credits is compulsory.

2. Post graduate education Two-year part time education course at Oslo University College (20 credits)Modules in Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology and Histopathology

3. Degree coursesUniversity degrees in Health sciences, Hospital Administration and in Biomedical Science related studies (given due to individual validation of the candidate’s basic education)

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Since 20031. Bioingeniør (Biomedical Laboratory Scientist)

Bachelor degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science, 3 years full time study program (180 ECTS) at one of 7 University Colleges. Of a total of 180 ECTS, practice must total 60 ECTS, and at least 20 ECTS must represent external practice in medical laboratories. Examination project (thesis) equal to 12 ECTS is compulsory.

2. Master degree Master degrees in Health Sciences, Hospital Administration and in Biomedical Laboratory Science related studies (given due to individual validation of the candidate’s basic education)


1. Admission to the Bachelor Programme in Biomedical Science -- Completion of the 3-year upper-secondary school, general area of study. (Studieretning for

allmenne fag). A concentration in natural sciences is mandatory. Students may gain additional admissions points if they have relevant laboratory experience or have taken advanced courses in chemistry, physics or mathematics.

2. Admission to master degree programmes in Biomedical Science and related studies--Bachelor degree in Biomedical Science or related sciences. For those who are graduated earlier than 2003, the admission to master programmes will be individually assessed.

3. Admission to master degree programmes in health administration and health sciences--Bachelor degree in one of the health sciences or related sciences. For those who are graduated earlier than 2003, the admission to master programmes will be individual assessed.


The education of Biomedical Laboratory Scientists in Norway is structured as a unified program, preparing graduates to work in hospital laboratories, research laboratories, and the pharmaceutical field and giving them basic training in clinical chemistry, hematology, immunohematology, blood serology, microbiology and pathology.

The program also is designed to give Biomedical Laboratory Scientists sufficient background so that they can evaluate and exercise control, participate in new methods, calibrate laboratory apparatus, and complete basic repairs to such apparatus. In addition, the program emphasizes the importance of contact and communication with patients.

6. CURRICULUM

From 1990-1998: Medical Laboratory Technologist (Bioingeniør) Subjects Educational plan Points

Basics in Mathematics, Statisticsmathematics and Computer programming,natural science Principles of electronics, 14-18 Optics, Instrumental chemical analysis, Chemistry

Biochemistry & Cell Biology 4-6 Anatomy/Physiology

Clinical, social, General clinical studies,administrative subjects Social & administration subjects 2-4

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Medical laboratory -Clinical chemistry,subjects -Hematology, Nuclear medicine. -Medical microbiology. 36-40 -Immunohematology, Blood banking Immunology. - Pathology, Histology, Clinical cytology. 60 points (credits)** 1 point or credit = approximately 47 hours of classroom attendance.

Each year of study equals 20 points (or credits); the full 3-year study program equals 60 points (or credits).

1998- 2003:(Issued by the Ministry of Education, Research and Church Affairs on January 15, 1998 pursuant to Section 46 (2) of Act No. 22 of May 12 1995 relating to Universities and Colleges.)

Natural science subjects 25 credits Mathematics, statistics and data processing 4 credits Physics, including measuring techniques 3 credits General & analytical chemistry 5 credits Organic chemistry & biochemistry 5 credits Cellular biology, include. molecular biology & genetics

3 credits

Anatomy, physiology and histology 3 credits General immunology & microbiology 2 creditsSocial science and humanistic subjects 5 credits Communication, interaction and conflict solving 2 credits Ethics 2 credits Scientific work methods 1

creditMedical laboratory subjects 30 credits Laboratory medicine 8 credits Medical laboratory Technology-principles & methods

18 credits

Quality development & internal control 4 creditsTotal 60 credits

Of a total of 60 credits, practice must total 20 credits, and at least 7 credits must represent external practice in hospital laboratories. Examination project (thesis) equal to 4 credits is compulsory.

Since 2004:Bachelor degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science (Bioingeniør)The current curriculum was determined by July 1, 2004, with no significant changes since 2003. The Quality Reform in higher education introduced the Bachelor and Master degree and the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). (The former credit equals 3 ECTS)

1 Natural science subjects 75 ECTSA General & analytical chemistry 15 ECTSB Statistics, mathematics and physics 20 ECTSC Organic chemistry & biology 15 ECTSD Cellular biology 15 ECTSE Physiology, anatomy and histology 10 ECTS2 Social science and humanistic subjects 15 ECTSA Scientific work methods 3 ECTSB Ethics 6 ECTSC Communication, interaction and conflict solving

6 ECTS

3 Biomedical Laboratory Science subjects 90 ECTSA Biomedical Laboratory science - principles & methods

65 ECTS

B Laboratory medicine 25 ECTSTotal 180 ECTS

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Of a total of 180 ECTS, practice must total 60 ECTS, and at least 20 ECTS must represent external practice in medical laboratories. Examination project (thesis) equal to 12 ECTS is compulsory.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

1991 list :

l. Oslo Bioingeniørhøgskole, avd.Rikshospitalet } Pilestredet 32 } these schools were merged in 1990 Oslo 1 } as one but offer practical sessionsOR } at two hospitals. The new name is Oslo Bioingeniørhøgskole, avd.Ullevaal } Oslo Bioingeniørhøgskole. Ullevaal sykehus } Oslo 1 }

2. Østfold Ingeniørhøgskole Avd. Bioingeniør, Postboks 10,Valaskjold, 1701 Sarpsborg

3. Bioingeniørhøgskolen, Bergen, Haukeland sykehus, 5021 Bergen

4. Bioingeniørhøgskolen i Tromsø Tromsø helsefaghøgskole Postboks 3049 Guleng 9001 Tromsø

5. Trondheim Ingeniørhøgskole, avd. Bioingeniør, E.C. Dahlsgt. 2, 7004 Trondheim

Since 1999:

Høgskolen i Oslo (Oslo University College)Faculty of Health SciencesPilestredet 52N-0167 Oslowww.hio.no

Høgskolen i Østfold (Østfold University College)Faculty of Health- and Social Studies P.O. Box 1409N-1609 Fredrikstadwww.hiof.no

Høgskolen i Bergen (Bergen University College)The Faculty of Engineering P.O. Box 7030N-5020 Bergenwww.hib.no

Høgskolen i Tromsø (Tromsø University College)Faculty of Health SciencesN-9293 Tromsøwww.hitos.no

http://www.hio.no

http://www.hiof.no

http://www.hib.no

http://www.hitos.no

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Høgskolen i Sør-Trøndelag (Sør-Trøndelag University College)The Faculty of Food Science and Medical Technology N-7004 Trondheimwww.hist.no

Høgskolen i Ålesund (Aalesund University College)Medical Laboratory Science EducationN-6025 Ålesundwww.hials.no

Høgskolen i Agder (Agder University College) (since 2004)Faculty of Mathematics and SciencesServiceboks 422N-4604 Kristiansandwww.hia.no


a. Accreditation: Accreditation of programs comes through:Utdannings- og forskningsdepartementet (Ministry of Education and Research).Since January 2003 the Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education (NOKUT) is the accreditation body for Norwegian higher education.

b. Authorization:Graduates are authorized as health personnel due to the Act of 2 July 1999 No. 64 relating to Health Personnel etc.Authorization is given by the Norwegian Registration Authority for Health Personnel on successful completion of the examination for Bioingeniør.

c. Certification: Membership in Norwegian Institute of Biomedical Science (BFI) requires the exam of Biomedical Scientist (Medical Laboratory Technologist).

d. The professional association for Biomedical Scientists: In January 1998 NOBI merged with the Norwegian Engineer Organization (NITO) and the Norwegian Institute of Biomedical Science was established within NITO. The Norwegian Institute of Biomedical Science is responsible for all professional activity, including international commitments such as membership in IFBLS, EPBS and CLMA.

NITO, Norwegian Institute of Biomedical Science P.O. Box 9100 GrønlandN-0133 OsloNORWAYwww.nito.no


The equivalencies of foreign trained Biomedical Scientists are determined by:

Statens autorisasjonskontor for helsepersonell (SAFH)(The Norwegian Registration Authority for Health Personnel)P.O. Box 8053 - DepN-0031 OsloNORWAYwww.safh.no

http://www.hist.no

http://www.hials.no

http://www.hia.no

http://www.nito.no

http://www.safh.no

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Individual applications for general recognition of foreign qualifications are considered by:

The Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education, NOKUTPO Box. 1708 Vika, N- 0121 OsloNORWAYwww.nokut.no (As the Norwegian ENIC-NARIC centre they are also responsible for providing foreign institutions and partners with information on the Norwegian educational system and the system for recognition of foreign higher education qualifications)

For further information contact the Norwegian Association directly at:www.nito.no

[email protected]

http://www.nokut.no

http://www.enic-naric.net/

http://www.nito.no


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PANAMA


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 High School Diploma (Bachiller)primary secondary

(1965-1985 School of Medical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Panama)

1 2 Biologist with Med. Tech. Specialization (Biólogo )

(After 1986 School of Medical Technology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Panama)

1 2 3 4 5 Licentiate in Med. Technology/Licenciatura en Tecnología Médica


The primary-secondary school sequence in Panama takes 12 years with education beginning when the student is six years old.

Before 1965, medical laboratory personnel received theoretical and practical training in 2-year non-university level programs provided by governmental institutions such as Health and Insurance Departments. Candidates received the qualification of Laboratorist (Laboratorian). Laboratorians worked at the governmental institutions and could also work in the university in the biology, chemistry and pharmacy laboratories as long as they had previous experience in a hospital.

In 1965, the School of Medical Technology (Escuela de Tecnología Médica) was founded at the Faculty of Pharmacy at University of Panama. Training for medical laboratory technologists was provided in a 2-year program leading to the qualification Biologist (Biólogo) with a specialization in Medical Technology(Biólogo con Especialización en Tecnología Médica). The School closed but reopened in 1985.

In 1986, the School of Medical Technology (Escuela de Tecnología Médica) became part of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Panama. The current program lasts five years (including practice and a thesis in the final year) and leads to a Licentiate in Medical Technology (Licenciatura en Tecnología Médica).


Licentiate in Medical TechnologyMedical Technology personnel are trained in a 5-year program at the School of Medical Technology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Panama.


Admission to the School of Medical Technology requires 12 years of education and a high school diploma with a concentration in Sciences and at least three Natural Science subjects with the grade C or higher. It also requires an entrance examination which, in addition to examination in specific subjects, also includes psychological and professional guidance tests and a medical examination.


Education for Medical Technologists is polyvalent and includes Clinical Chemistry, Urinalysis and Clinical Microscopy,

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Microbiology, Histology, Cytology, Parasitology, Physiopathology, Immunology, Immunohematology, Hematology, Toxicology and an elective. Medical Technologists may work in governmental and private institutions, however, only those technologists who work in governmental institutions are protected by the law, which establishes salaries and periodic promotions.

6. CURRICULUM5-Year Licentiate program in Medical Technology 1996

Escuela de Tecnología Médica (School of Medical Technology)University of Panama

Year 1-Semester 1 Semester 2 Subject Credits Subject CreditsSpanish 3 Spanish 3General Chemistry & 4 General Chemistry & 4 Analytical Chem. I Analytical Chem. IIGeneral Biology 5 Organic Chem. 4Mathematics 4 Biology (Genetics) 4Cultural Elective* 3 General Physics 4 Total 19 Total 19Year 2- Semester 1 Semester 2 Subject Credits Subject CreditsBiochemistry 5 Histology & Cytology 5Human Anatomy 4 Biostatistics 3General Microbiology 5 Human Physiology 4 Descriptive Statistics 3 Intro to Computers 3English I 3 English II 3 Total 20 Total 18 Year 3- Semester 1 Semester 2 Subject Credits Subject CreditsClinical Chemistry I 4 Clinical Chemistry II 3Clinical Microbiology I 3 Clinical Microbiology II 3Gen’l & Clin. Parasitology I 3 Gen’l & Clin. Parasitology II 3 Principles of Physiopathology 4 Urinalysis & Cultural Elective* 3 Clinical Microscopy 4 Total 17 Immunology I 3 Total 16Year 4-Semester 1 Semester 2 Subject Credits Subject CreditsImmunology II 3 Principles of Instrumentation for Clinical Pathology 4 Medical Technology 4 Intro. to Public Health & Hematology 5 Epidemiology 3Seminar: Med. Tech Research 2 Principles of Lab. Admin. 2 Science Elective** 4 Immunohematology & Total 18 Blood Banking 4 Science Elective** 4 Cultural Elective* 3

Total 20

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Year 5-Semester 1 Semester 2 Subject Credits Subject CreditsHospital practice I 6 Hospital practice II 6 Graduation Thesis 3 Graduation Thesis 3 Total 9 Total 9 Total Credits 165

*Cultural Electives Anthropology 3 Sociology 3 Psychology 3 Panama in the World of the Americas 3

*Science Electives Human Genetics 4 Pharmacology & Toxicology 4 Microbiology of Nutrition 4

Each semester consists of 16 weeks of theoretical or practical training. Students must achieve a grade of C or higher in order to move into the next semester. It is possible to make up one course with a D grade. Two F’s automatically disqualify the student from attending.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

School of Medical TechnologyUniversity of PanamaCiudad Universitaria, Dr. Octavio Méndez PereiraEl Congrejo,Apdo Estafeta Universitaria, Panama City


a. AccreditationThe university is accredited by the Ministry of Education

b. License and Registration. The professional practice of Medical Technology is regulated by law. The practitioner must be a Panamanian and hold the License to practice which is granted by the Technical Council of Health (Consejo Tecnico de Salud), which is part of the Ministry of Health. The Ministry of Health maintains a register of Medical Technologists licensed to practice.

c. Professional Association Colegio Nacional de Laboratoristas Clínicos de Panamá

Apartado 6-2371El Dorado, Panama

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Currently there are no specific provisions for foreigners to practice as Medical Laboratory Technologists in Panama. Such regulations are now under consideration and are being worked out in conjunction with other Latin American countries.


Directora de la División de Servicios de Apoyo Ministerio de Salud

Panamá City, PanamaTel: 262 8198; 262-8819

Fax: 262-5931

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PHILIPPINES


1 2 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 High School Diplomaprimary secondary

1 2 3 4 B.Sc. Medical Technology (B.S.M.T)


Primary-secondary education in the Philippines takes 10 years. Students enter the first grade at age 7. Those who go on to 4-year colleges after receiving the high school diploma must pass the National College Entrance Examination.

Medical Laboratory Science programs were introduced in the Philippines by the 26th Medical Laboratory Division of the 6th United States Army at the end of World War II. The laboratory was established at Quiricada St., Santa Cruz, Manila where the Public Health Laboratory is currently located.

In 1947 training of Medical Laboratory Technicians began. The trainees were largely high school and paramedical graduates. In 1954 a syllabus for training Medical Technicians was established. It included a six-month formal training period and led to a Certificate. That same year the Philippine Union College instituted a 4-year course in Medical Technology, leading to the degree of B.S. in Medical Technology. In 1957 the University of Santo Tomas, Faculty of Pharmacy, offered a Medical Laboratory course as an elective for Pharmacy graduates. In 1960 the first 3-year Medical Technology course at the University of Santo Tomas was approved by the Bureau of Education. The following year, a 4th year internship was added. Other universities and colleges soon added similar programs. According to the recently formed Commission on Higher Education, there are now 50 colleges and universities offering Medical Technology programs in the Philippines.


There is only one level of training for the Medical Laboratory Technologist:

The Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology (B.S.M.T.)Students enter professional training institutions from high school for a 4-year program, leading to the B.S.M.T. The program includes practical training. There are 2 universities offering postgraduate courses leading to the Master of Science in Medical Technology: the University of Santo Tomas and the Philippine Women’s University. In order to practice graduates must take and pass the examination of Board of Medical Technology, earning a passing grade of 75 % and above.


To be admitted to a program leading to the Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology (B.S.M.T) a students must have: 1) successfully completed a general secondary school program 2) passed the National College Entrance Examination with a score of at least 60% 3) complied with the admission requirements of the specific school 4) not been convicted or found guilty of any misconduct involving moral character 5. SCOPE OF THE FIELD

Medical Laboratory Science education is polyvalent including: Blood Banking, Clinical Chemistry, Clinical Microscopy , Urinalysis and Body Fluids, Hematology, Histopathology, Parasitology , Serology & Immunology and Microbiology.

Registered Medical Technologists may work as a laboratory manager and as a consultant in clinical laboratories, research, education, public health laboratories, diagnostic companies, veterinary laboratories, health maintenance institutions, blood banks, environmental laboratories and forensic laboratories.

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6. CURRICULUM

Standard 4-Year Bachelor ofMedical Laboratory Science Technology -1995

Year 1- Semester 1Subject Lecture Lab Units/HrsCommunications Skills 1

3 3

Elementary Spanish 3 3College Algebra 3 3Gen’l & Inorganic Chem.

3 6 5

General Botany 3 6 5Pilipino 1 3 3Physical Education 1 (1)Citizen Military Training

(1.5)

22

Year 1-Semester 2Communications Skills 2

3 3

Intermediate Spanish 3 3Trigonometry 3 3General Zoology 3 6 5Qualitative Chem 3 6 5Pilipino 2 3 3Physical Education 2 (1)Citizen Military Training

(1.5)

22

Year 2 - -Semester 1Speech & Oral

Communication3 3

Advanced Spanish 3 3General Physics 3 6 5Organic Chem. 3 6 5Phil. Culture & Hist. 3 3General Psychology 3 3Physical Education 3 (1)Citizen Military Training

(1.5)

22

Year 2 - -Semester 2Survey of Philippine Lit.

3 3

Selected Writings 3 3Qualitative Chem. 3 6 5Biochemistry 3 6 5Taxation, Agrarian

Reform & Social Problems

3 3

Phil. Gov’t & Constitution

3 3

Rizal’s Life Works & Writings*

3 3

Physical Education 3 (1)Citizen Military Training

(1.5)

25

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Year 3 - -Semester 1Clinical Chemistry

1 (Pure Blood Chemistry)

2 3 3

Med. Technology Laws & Ethics with Lab. Mngmt.

3 3

Microbiology 3 6 5Biostats. (Incl.

Preventive & Community Medicine

2 3 3

Human Anatomy 2 2Histology (Human) 2 3 3Physiology 2 3 3

22

Year 3 - -Semester 2Serology & Immunology

3 3 4

Parasitology 2 3 3Gen’l Pathology &

Histo-techniques2 3 3

Clinical Chem. II (Endro- crinology & Toxicology

2 3 3

Hematology 3 3 4Blood Banking 2 3 3Clinical Microscopy 2 3 3

23

Year 4 - -Semester 1 Internship (12 mos - 52 weeks Clinical Chemistry 10 weeksMedical Microbiology

& Parasitology10 weeks

Hematology 10 weeksClin. Microscopy 8 weeksSerology & Immunology

4 weeks

Blood Banking 4 weeksGen’l Path. & Histotech.

4 weeks

Special Procedures (ECG, Nuclear Med. etc.)

2 weeks

Total 52 weeks*Offered during the summerOptional SubjectsGenetics 3 unitsComputer Science 3 unitsIntro. To Nuclear Med. 2 units

Grading varies from institution to institution but generally is as follows: 1.0-1.5 92-100 1.6-2.0 85-91 2.1-2.5 80-84 2.6-3.0 75-79 3.1-5.0 0 - 74

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7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

See Appendix 1


a) Accreditation Management of Medical Laboratory Science programs comes under the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture.

b) Licensure, Certification, Registration In order to practice an applicant must achieve a numerical grade of 75 or more on the Board of Medical Technology Examination.

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) is the only government agency that registers Medical Technologists to practice after passing the Board Examination.

Board of Medical Technology Professional Regulations Commission P. Parades St. Manila. Philippines

c) Professional Association: The Philippine Association of Medical Technologists, Inc. (PAMET) Unit 1720 17th Floor Cityland 10, Tower 2 6817 Ayala Ave. North, City of Makati, Philippines Tel: 63 2 812 6819 Fax: 63 2 817-1487


Foreign-trained Medical Technologists are allowed to practice in the Philippines provided they are registered by the Professional Regulations Commission.


President of PAMETUnit 1720

17th Floor Cityland 10, Tower 26817 Ayala Ave. North,

City of Makati, Philippines

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SERBIA - YUGOSLAVIA


Diploma1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Secondary School Diploma

elementary school sec. school(gymnasium)

programs inmedical schools for

1* 2* 3* 4* Laboratory Technician Diploma

laboratory technicians 6m **

Faculty of Pharmacy 1 2 3 4 5 Diploma in Medical BiochemistryUniversity of Belgrade 1 **

-- ***

Faculty of Pharmacy 1 2† 3† Diploma ofUniversity of Belgrade Specialization

(Clinical Chemistry)

-- ***

1* Diploma of Subspecialization

1 2 Master’s Degree

1 2 3 4 Ph.D.Note:* = practical work experience.† = organized, supervised work in soecialized biochemical laboratories** = post-diploma practical work experience at hospitals required for obtaining license.*** = 3-year post-bachelor’s work experience, and long-term post-specialization work experience required, respectively.


The first continuous and organized education for Medical Biochemists in Yugoslavia dates from 1945, when the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry was established at the Pharmaceutical Faculty in Zagreb, and soon afterwards in Belgrade. Further development in the education of Medical Biochemists was made in 1955 with the introduction of a specialization in Medical Biochemistry at the Pharmaceutical Faculty in Belgrade. In 1991 at the same faculty a special branch was established, educating Medical Biochemists under a special program.

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1) Laboratory Technician DiplomaLaboratory Technicians have to complete a 4-year secondary-level program in a medical school for Laboratory Technicians. Their education includes practical work experience in clinical biochemical laboratories. On completion of the program, graduates are awarded a Laboratory Technician Diploma. In order to get a license to work permanently in biochemical laboratories, the applicant needs six months of practical work experience in a clinical biochemical laboratory.

2) Diploma in Medical Biochemistry Medical biochemists (also known as Clinical Chemists) are educated in a special program at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade. The studies last five years. In order to get a license to work in clinical chemistry laboratories, they must have one year practical work experience in hospital laboratories after graduation.

3) Diploma of Specialization (Clinical Chemistry) Specialists in clinical chemistry are educated in a special 3-year program at the Faculty of Pharmacy. During the first year, in addition to practical training in laboratories, they attend organized lectures in the following subjects: pathophysiology, hematology and coagulation, microbiology, general biochemistry, biostatistics, instrumentation analyses, immunochemistry, clinical chemistry, clinical enzymology, and organization of the clinical chemistry laboratory. After successfully passing examination in these subjects, the student can continue in a 2-year specialization program. These final 2 years comprise organized and supervised practical work in specialized clinical biochemical laboratories. During the last three months, candidates work on a practical problem, recording data on a written form which is presented at a final exam. This examination also requires an overall knowledge in medical biochemistry.

4) Diploma of Subspecialization (Clinical Chemistry )There are four subspecializations in Clinical Chemistry:

Laboratory Endocrinology Clinical Enzymology Laboratory Hematology Clinical Immunochemistry

The program lasts one year. On completion of the program, a Diploma of Subspecialization in the field is awarded.

5) Master’s Degree in Clinical ChemistryPostgraduate studies in clinical chemistry and medical biochemistry last two years. During the first year a candidate has to attend lectures and pass examinations in the following subjects: organic chemistry, physical chemistry, instrumentation methods, biostatistics, methodology of scientific research, pathophysiology, general biochemistry, and medical biochemistry. After passing the examinations, the student is assigned an experimental project by the supervisor. Data obtained from experiments are presented in a written form and defended before a commission.

6) Doctoral Degree in Clinical Chemistry:Candidates for doctoral degree usually have a Master’s Degree. It is also possible for candidates who have a great deal of practical experience and a certain number of published papers to enroll for a doctoral degree, but these candidates have to pass an oral examination in front of a committee. All candidates are assigned a project by their supervisor, which they have to work out experimentally. They then write a thesis, which must be defended in front of a commission.

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1) Laboratory Technician Diploma: Entry into the program, which is offered at a medical school for Laboratory Technicians (secondary level), is based on an entrance examination. Applicants should hold a Diploma of Elementary School, which is completed following 8 years of primary study.

2) Diploma in Medical BiochemistryFor entrance to the university faculty, all candidates must successfully complete General Secondary School (Gymnasium) or hold a Laboratory Technician Diploma and successfully pass a qualification examination.

3) Diploma of Specialization (Clinical Chemistry) Candidates must have the Diploma in Medical Biochemistry and three years of post-Diploma work experience in clinical biochemical laboratories, under the supervision of a specialist with five years of post-specialization experience.

4) Diploma of Subspecialization(Clinical Chemistry)Applicants must have the Diploma of Specialization and long-term experience in the field of subspecialization.

5) Master’s Degree:Candidates must have the Diploma in Medical Biochemistry with average grades of 8 out of 10

6) Doctoral Degree:Candidates for entrance to the Doctoral program must hold a Master’s degree. Exceptions are candidates with considerable practical experience who have published papers and have passed an oral examination given by a committee.


Education for Laboratory Technicians is polyvalent and includes Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology & Parasitology, Blood Banking, and Hematology. Laboratory Technicians work in local, regional or national hospital centers. Laboratory technicians should be capable of performing all standard laboratory tests. Their superiors are higher health technicians and medical biochemists. Medical biochemists are capable of performing all standard laboratory tests and also make decisions for verification of results and communicate the results in the required format. Specialists in Medical Biochemistry are also capable of taking initiative for complementary research as needed.

6. CURRICULUMLaboratory Technician Diploma

The curriculum for the 4-year training for laboratory technicians must include 16 hours of theory and 30 hours of practical work per week.

SubjectsGeneral orientation:MathematicsPhysicsChemistryBiologyAnatomy & PhysiologyAnalytical ChemistryLaboratory TechniquesSubject - specificToxicological ChemistryPathologyMedical BiochemistryMicrobiology & ParasitologyHematology & Blood Banking

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Sanitary ChemistryDiploma in Medical Biochemistry (Clinical Chemistry)

Changes were introduced in the education of clinical chemists at the first degree level in 1985 and 1987. Below is the plan in effect from 1991.

General Subjects HoursPhysics 165Mathematics 105Inorganic Chemistry 185Biology & Human Genetics 75Analytical Chemistry 300Organic Chemistry 285Physical Chemistry 120Anatomy & Histology 60Statistics 120General Biochemistry 120Specific Subjects HoursPhysiology 120Immunology 60Microbiology & Hygiene 90Clinical-chemical Laboratory Methods 105Human Genetics 60Immunochemistry 60Hematology 90Pathophysiology 60Medical Biochemistry 255Toxicological Chemistry 235Pharmacology 135General & Clinical Enzymology 105Clinical Toxicological Analyses 60Pharmacokinetics 90Clinical Chemistry 300

Diploma of Specialization in Clinical Chemistry (Medical Biochemistry)

Subjects HoursPathophysiology 60Hematology & Coagulation 40*Bacteriology 10*Biostatistics 15Instrumentation Methods 40*General Biochemistry 30Medical Biochemistry 60Clinical Enzymology 30Immunochemistry 30Clin. Pathophysiology 10Organization of Clin. Chem. Lab. 10

• Includes practical work up to 42 hours per week.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Laboratory Technician Diploma programsThe number of Laboratory Technician’s Diploma programs is too large to include here individually. Please refer to:

Faculty of Pharmacy University of Belgrade Vojvode Stepe 450, P. O. Box 146 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Diploma, Master’s and Doctoral Degrees ProgramsThe Faculty of Pharmacy at University of Belgrade also offers the Diploma and the Master’s and Doctoral degree as well as the Specialist and Subspecialist Diplomas in Clinical Chemistry (Medical Biochemistry):

Faculty of Pharmacy

University of Belgrade Vojvode Stepe 450, P. Box 146 11000 Belgrade, Serbi

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a) Accreditation - The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Public Health accredits programs.

b) Certification -Laboratory Technicians, Medical Biochemists and Specialists in Medical Biochemistry receive a State Diploma.

c) Licensure - Medical Laboratory Technicians and Medical Biochemists are licensed by: The Ministry of Health Nemarjina 22 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.d) Professional Association - Society of Medical Biochemists of Yugoslavia. Department of Biochemistry Faculty of Pharmacy Vojvode Stepe 450, P.O. Box 146 11000 Belgrade, Serbia


The recognition of education outside the country depends on the specific programs which are evaluated by the university.


Department of BiochemistryFaculty of Pharmacy

Vojvode Stepe 450, P. Box 14611000 Belgrade, Serbia

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SINGAPORE


G.C.E. ‘O’ Level

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11primary secondary 12 13 G.C.E. ‘A’

Level

Universities 1 2 3 Bachelor’s Degree

4 Bachelor’s Honors Degree

Polytechnics 1 2 3 -Diploma in Biotechnology with Medical Technology Option (full-time) (Singapore Polytechnic)-Diploma in Biotechnology with Medical Technology option (Ngee Polytechnic)

4 5 Advanced Diploma Medical Laboratory Technology

1 2 3 4 5 Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (part-time)


A formal system for the training of Medical Laboratory Technicians began in Singapore in the mid-1950s. The Department of Pathology of the Ministry of Health, Singapore was solely responsible for conducting examinations and training laboratory technicians. The Department supplied the manpower needs of all the clinical laboratories in government hospitals, out-patient services and other government health institutions. During this time persons with Senior Cambridge Certificates with credit in a science subject were recruited for in-service on-the-job training in Clinical Biochemistry, Bacteriology, Histology (including Morbid Histology), Hematology, Blood Banking and Serology. At the end of the third year, they sat for the Intermediate Examination in Medical Laboratory Technology. A successful candidate then chose a specialization such as Clinical Biochemistry, Hematology, Histopathology, Bacteriology etc. At the end of the fifth year, the candidate would then sit for a Final Examination in Medical Laboratory Technology.

Both the Intermediate and Final Examinations were conducted by the Board of Examiners which consisted of a chairman, an external examiner, and the heads of the sections in each main discipline. The examinations were in 3 parts:

i) a written examination ii) a practical examination iii) an oral examinationIn March 1975, training for Medical Laboratory Technicians was changed to serve the growing demand for trained technicians in many areas. Candidates with “O” or “A” level secondary school certificates were recruited as Assistant Medical Laboratory Technicians (ALTs) in a particular discipline. They were given on-the-job training and required to serve

184 185

a 2-year probationary period during which time they were required to pass a departmental examination. At the end of an additional 3 years,candidates sat for a Departmental Qualifying Examination. University graduates with a Pass degree were also eligible to become Assistant Medical Laboratory Assistants in a particular discipline, qualifying after a 2-year program, culminating in the Departmental Qualifying Examination (DQE). The last examinations for this educational pattern were given in 1990.

In 1986 the Department of Chemical Process Technology (CPT) of Singapore Polytechnic jointly with the Ministry of Health, Singapore initiated a 3-year Diploma course in Chemical Process Technology with Medical Technology as a final-year option. Entrance requirement for this course was a G.C.E. “O” level with credits in Mathematics, a science subject and preferably an English credit as well. Satisfactory completion of the course requires successful completion of course work, including practical work, and of written examinations. Students also undergo 14 weeks of industrial attachment at selected hospitals, medical laboratories, research laboratories and biotechnology related establishments during the long vacation at the end of the second year of study.

In 1989 the Ngee Ann Polytechnic in Singapore started a similar program leading to the Diploma in Biotechnology program with Medical Laboratory Technology option.

In 1994 the Department of Chemical Process and Biotechnology introduced an Advanced Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology.


Prior to 1975

Laboratory Technician CertificatePrior to 1975, Laboratory Technicians were trained in a 5-year on-the-job training program offered at the Department of Pathology of the Ministry of Health; at the end of the third year, there was an Intermediate examination; at the end of the 5th , there was a final examination.

1975-1990

1) Laboratory Technician CertificateIn 1975 a new program was initiated at the Department of Pathology in the Ministry of Health. Candidates to become Laboratory Technicians were now given on-the-job training and required to serve a 2-year probationary period, during which time they were required to pass a departmental examination. At the end of an additional 3 years, candidates sat for a Departmental Qualifying Examination. University graduates with a Pass degree were also eligible to become Assistant Medical Laboratory Assistants in a particular discipline, qualifying after a 2-year program, culminating in the Departmental Qualifying Examination (DQE). The last examinations for this educational pattern were given in 1990.

2) Diploma in Biotechnology with Medical Technology option; In 1986 the Department of Chemical Process and Biotechnology Technology (CPT) of Singapore Polytechnic jointly with the Ministry of Health, Singapore initiated a 3-year Diploma course in Chemical Process Technology with Medical Technology as a final year option. In 1989 the Ngee Ann Polytechnic initiated a similar program (Candidates who did not have either Biology or Chemistry from their ‘O’ Levels, had to attend an 8-week course in these respective subjects before beginning the academic year. They were also required to undergo 8 weeks of a vocational training program at the end of their 2nd year.) A 5-year part-time Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology was also made available.

1990-present

1) Diploma in Biotechnology with Medical Technology option; As above

2) Advanced Diploma in Medical Laboratory TechnologyA 2-year program offered by the Department of Pathology and Biotechnology of Singapore Polytechnic leading to an

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Advanced Diploma in Medical technology was introduced in 1994.


1) Laboratory Technician Certificate (discontinued in 1990)Prior to 1975, admission to the Laboratory Technician program required a Senior Cambridge Certificate with a credit in science. After 1975, admission required the G.C.E. “O” or “A” level certificate.

2) Diploma in Biotechnology with Medical TechnologyNgee Ann Polytechnic in Singapore- requires G.C.E. “O” level with relevant science subjects in Biology, Chemistry Science (Chemistry/Botany), Science (Physics/Biology) Science (Physics/Chemistry)/Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology).

3) Diploma in Biotechnology with Medical Technology optionSingapore Polytechnic- requires G.C.E. “O” level with credits in Mathematics, a science subject, and English.

4) Advanced Diploma in Medical Laboratory TechnologyAdmission to the Advanced Diploma program requires the Diploma in Medical Technology or equivalents


The diploma level program at Singapore Polytechnic covers Animal Cell Biology, Biological Laboratory Techniques, Chemistry of the Life Sciences, Analytical Biochemistry 1 & II, Animal Tissue Culture, Molecular Genetics, Hybridoma Techniques, Introductory Recombinant DNA, Project, Topics in Biotechnology, and Scale-up processes in Biotechnology. The Medical Laboratory portion is polyvalent covering Blood Banking, Hematology, Immunology, Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology, and Histotechnology

There are 4 professional levels for Medical Technology personnel:

1) Chief Laboratory Technician- Duties include supervision of all technical personnel, administrative duties and training. Confirmed Senior Laboratory Technicians are eligible for consideration for promotion to this grade.

2) Senior Laboratory Technician- Duties consist of supervision of technical personnel and laboratory attendants immediately under the Senior Laboratory Technician.; administrative duties; performing standard or special tests; assisting in teaching laboratory staff preparation of periodic reports of activities and maintenance of inventory stocks; participation in research as assigned. Confirmed Laboratory Technicians are eligible for consideration for promotion to this grade.

3. Laboratory Technician- Duties consist of performance of routine and some special laboratory procedures; assisting in the training and supervision of Assistant Laboratory Technicians; performance of night duty in routine 24-hour service laboratories. Confirmed Assistant Laboratory Technicians who have passed the Departmental Qualifying Examinations are eligible for promotion to this grade. Candidates for direct appointment must possess:

a) a recognized university degree; or b) a recognized qualification in Medical Laboratory Science

4. Assistant Laboratory Technician- Duties consist of accurate repetition of well-established laboratory procedures; carrying out detailed instruction; operation and reading of recording instruments, accurate calculation of results, reporting of data; performance of necessary clinical work; performance of night duty; care of lab. equipment. Candidates for direct appointment to this position must possess:

a) three G.C.E. “O” level passes including science subjects; or b) the School Certificate or equivalent preferably with science subjects; or c) Higher School Certificate or equivalent preferably with science subjects.

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6. CURRICULUM

Diploma in Biotechnology (Medical Technology Option)Singapore Polytechnic, 1997 3-year full-time program(The course curriculum for this program consists of 6 modules )

Stage 1A Hours per Week Subject Lecture Theory Practical Total 15 wk creditsApplied Electronics 2 - 1 45 Biosystems & Biomolecules 3 1 2 90Analytical & Physical Chemistry 2 1 2 75Productivity & Quality* 1⁄2 1 1⁄2 30Effective Writing Skills* - 2 - 30Mathematics A 3 1 - 60Computer Studies (Biology)* 2 2 2 90

-Sub-total 12 1⁄2 8 7 1⁄2 420

Stage 1BInorganic & Organic Chemistry 3 1 2 90Basic Microbiology 2 1 2 75Cell Biology 2 1 2 75Anatomy & Physiology I 2 1⁄2 1 1⁄2 60Report Writing & Presentation* - 2 - 30Mathematics B 3 1 - 60Character Education* - 2 - 30

Sub-total 12 8 1⁄2 7 1⁄2 420

Stage 2A (Medical Tech. Option)Molecular Genetics 2 1 2 75Applied Microbiology 2 1 2 75Biochemical Techniques* 2 1 2 75Clinical Chemistry 1 2 1 1 60Basic Immunology* 2 2 1 75Basic Instrumental Analysis 2 1 1 60Industrial Training Program (8 wks) - - - -

Sub-total 12 7 9 420

Stage 2B (Medical Tech. Option)Metabolic Chemistry 3 2 1 90Molecular Biology 2 1 2 75Basic Pathology 3 1 - 60Hematology I 2 1 1 60Anatomy & Physiology II 2 1 1 60Environmental Studies A* 3 1 1 75Industrial Training Program (8 wks) - - - -

Sub-total 15 7 6 420

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Stage 3A (Medical Tech. Option)Project ** - - 4 60Blood Banking 2 1 2 75Histological Techniques 3 1 2 90Hematology II 2 1 2 75Medical Microbiology A 3 1 2 90 Effective Interpersonal Communication* 2 - 30

Sub-total 10 6 12 420

Stage 3B (Medical Tech. Option)Project * ** - - 4 60Quality Control & Lab Mgmt.* 2 1 - 45Applied Immunology 2 1 - 75 Good Lab. & Manufacturing Practice 2 1 1 60Clinical Chemistry II 2 1 2 75Medical Microbiology B 2 1 2 75Communications Skills for Work - 2 - 30

Sub-total 10 7 9 420*In-course assessment module; ** Module covered in 2 semesters

Advanced Diploma in Medical Laboratory TechnologySingapore Polytechnic, 1997

Year 1 Stage 1A Hours per Week Subject Lecture Tutorial Lab. Total 15 wk creditsHuman Health & Disease 30 15 0 45Hematology 22 8 15 45Regulation of Metabolism 22 8 15 45 Stage 1 BMammalian Physiology 22 8 15 45Immunology & Disease 22 8 15 45Molecular Cell Biology 22 8 15 45

Sub-total 140 55 75 270

Year 2 Stage 2A Hours per Week Subject Lecture Tutorial Lab. Total 15 wk creditsMolecular Genetics 22 8 15 45Data Handling & Interpretation 22 8 15 45Clinical Chemistry 22 8 15 45Project * - - 30 30 Stage 1 BMedical Microbiology 22 8 15 45Hybridoma Technology 22 8 15 45Transfusion Science 22 8 15 45Project* - - 30 30

Sub-total 132 48 150 330 Total 272 103 225 600

* project covered in 2 semesters

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7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Singapore Polytechnic500 Dover RoadSingapore 0513

Ngee Ann Polytechnic535 Clement’s RoadSingapore 2159


The Singapore Association for Medical Laboratory Sciences (SAMLS)% Housemen’s QuartersSingapore General Hospital2 College RoadSingapore 516985

ASEAN Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists (AAMLT)

[ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) comprises Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines, with some new countries, including Myanmar (previously Burma) and Vietnam recently added. The address of the Association changes constantly as the secretariat rotates between associations.]


For professional reciprocity, see reciprocity section in each relevant country entry in the various editions of the International Directories of Medical Laboratory Science Education.


Singapore Association of Medical Laboratory Sciencec/o Alumni Association (SB, Medical Center)

2 College Rd. Singapore 516985Fax: 252 0064

or

Vice President, The Singapore Association for Medical Laboratory Sciences (SAMLS)

c/o Housemen’s QuartersSingapore General Hospital

2 College RoadSingapore 516985

Tel: 657724114Fax: 657794753

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SLOVAK REPUBLIC

1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINEMatriculation

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12primary school secondary sch.

Secondary Health Care School 1 2 3 4 Medical Laboratorian**

Institute of Post-graduate Education 1* 2* Specialization Studiesof Health Care Providers (1 year practice pre-requisite)

Post-secondary (from Sept.1st 1997) 1* 2* Certified Medical Laboratorian**Certificate (Diploma)

University (from Oct.1st 1996) 1* 2* 3* Medical Laboratorian**Baccalaureate Degree

Note: * = part-time specialized courses. **= zdravotny laborant = Medical Laboratorian.


Until 1993, the Slovak Republic and Czech Republic co-existed as one state, the Czechoslovak Federative Republic (Czechoslovakia). The educational curricula were identical for both republics. On January 1, 1993, when an independent Slovak Republic was established, an independent curriculum was set up.

Education of Medical Laboratorians (“zdravotny laborant”) in the Slovak Republic began before World War II. Since then, there have been many changes and innovations in accordance with changes in the general educational structure.

In the former Czechoslovakia, and since 1993 in the independent Slovak Republic, education of medical laboratorians was in 4-year secondary courses attended by graduates of primary schools These secondary health care schools, as well as other specialized secondary schools, are part of the secondary educational structure of the Ministry of Education. The Ministry of Health, however, is responsible for managing the secondary health care schools, general and specialized education. Both Ministries supervise the curriculum, admission & final examinations, textbooks, and fulfillment of general regulations & guidelines.

After finishing the secondary school course for Medical Laboratorians there are 3 avenues for further education:(1) The Institute for Post-graduate Education of Health Care Providers organizes 2-year part-time courses that enable students to obtain specialization (such as in Biochemistry, Hematology, etc.). As this Institute does not have a statute of a school, finishing of such a course does not mean that the student attains a higher educational degree;(2) From 1997 a 2-year polyvalent part-time course that enables students to obtain a higher qualification will be available. On completion, graduates would receive a Certificate;(3) Since 1996 a 3-year polyvalent Baccalaureate part-time course is available at Universities.Currently, plans are underway to change the Slovak educational system to comply with standards of the European Union (EU). For health care education, including that of Medical Laboratorian, this will mean creation of a 4-tier educational system consisting of the following stages:

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Secondary education, leading to successful passage of a final exam (Matriculation).Post-secondary specialized education, leading to a Certificate (Diploma).University Baccalaureate study, leading to final state examination and Bachelor’s degree.University Master’s degree, leading to final state examination.


(a) Graduates of the 4-year Medical Laboratorian course at secondary health care schools are authorized to perform the basic activities of a medical laboratory technician in clinical biochemistry, hematology, transfusion technology, histology, immunology, toxicology, microbiology and hygiene under supervision of a specialized technician with higher qualification.

(b) Beginning in 1997-1998, a part-time 2-year post-secondary specialized courses for Medical Laboratorian will be available. After successful completion, the graduate will have the title “Certified Laboratorian”.

(c) During 1996-1997, a 3-year Bachelor’s level program will be opened for Medical Laboratorian, leading to a Bachelor’s degree in laboratory diagnostic methods.

(d) Eventually, it is anticipated that the above-mentioned university course will be followed by a 2-year Master’s program, leading to a Master’s degree with a concentration in education and management.


(a) Medical Laboratorian: To enter a secondary health care school, a candidate must be a graduate of a primary school and be at least 14 years of age. Entrance examinations consist of biology and chemistry.(b) Specialization Studies: A candidate must be a graduate of a secondary health care school with a concentration in Medical Technology with a minimum of one year of practice, have successfully passed the final exam (matriculation), and be at least 19 years of age.(c) Certified Medical Technical Assistant: A candidate must be a graduate of a secondary health care school - specialization in Medical Laboratory Technician with a minimum of one year of practice, have successfully passed the final exam (matriculation), and be at least 19 years of age.(d) Bachelor’s with Specialization as Medical Laboratorian: Entrance to this 3-year program requires success in the secondary school final examination with a concentration in Medical Laboratory Technology and age minimum of 18 years.(e) Master’s Degree in Laboratory Diagnostic Methods. The University of Trnava is currently preparing a graduate curriculum.


Educational preparation for medical laboratorians is polyvalent and includes clinical biochemistry, hematology, immunohematology, microbiology, and histology & histologic techniques. The Institute for Post-graduate Education of Health Care Providers organizes 2-year part-time courses that enable students to obtain specialization in Biochemistry, Hematology, etc. Medical Laboratorians do not perform research independently. They are members of research teams headed by a physician or a researcher with academic education.

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6. CURRICULUM

Education of Medical Laboratorians in the Slovak Republic provides basic secondary-level education in:

(1) Clinical biochemistry (2) Hematology, immunology and transfusion technology(3) Histology, cytology and pathology (4) Microbiology, bacteriology, parasitology,(5) Genetics mycology, virology(6) Selected laboratory methods

Specialization studies are provided by the Institute for Post-graduate Education include concentrations in areas (1) through (4) above.

Grading

Grading of students is as follows (at secondary schools only): 1 = Excellent 2 = Very good 3 = Good 4 = Sufficient 5 = Insufficient

The total number of hours is about 4,352. Of this number, 1,870 are devoted to general subjects, i.e. 42.8%; 2,482 are specialized subjects, i.e. 57.2%. After finishing the third year of study, students must pass a compulsory 1 month practice at one of the health care laboratories.

Examination - 4-years study:

The final examination consists of written, oral and practical parts. After successful completion of 4 years of study, students pass final examinations in front of the Examination Committee. They must pass the written and oral part. The practical part of the final exam (matriculation) includes working out a protocol for the practical part and defending it in front of the Committee. The practical part of the examination is performed in school laboratories or in hospital laboratories and lasts 3 days.

The oral part of the final examination includes major subjects: clinical biochemistry, hematology and transfusion technology, microbiology, histology and histologic technique.

The Chairperson of the Examination Committee is nominated by the Ministry of Education.

Sample CurriculumMedical Laboratorian

Secondary Health Care School

Categories and Number of lessons taught weekly subjects year: 1 2 3 4 total Compulsory subjects 30 30 32 34 128 General subjectsSlovak language 2 2 2 2 8Foreign language(English or German) 3(3) 2(2) 2(2) 2(2) 9(9)Civics 1 1 1 - 3History 2 1 - - 3 Natural Sciences

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Mathematics 2 2 2 - 6Physics 3(1) 3(1) - - 6(2)Chemistry 4(1) 5(1)/3(1) - - 8(2)Biology 2(2) - - - 2(2)Informatics 2(2) - - - 2(2)Physical Training 2 2 2 2 8 Specialized SubjectsAnatomy and Physiology 3 - - - 3Pathology - 2 - - 2Microbiology, Epidemiol. and Hygiene - 2(1) 4(2) 5(2) 11(5)Health Care Management - - - 2 2First Aid - - - 1(0.5) 1(0.5)Analytical Chemistry - 4(4) - - 4(4)Biochemistry - 2 2 1 4Laboratory Technology 4(3) - - - 4(3)Histology & Histologic Technology - 2(1) 3(2) 3(2) 8(5)Clinical Biochemistry - - 6(4) 7(5) 13(9)Hematology & Transfusiontechnology - - 5(3) 5(3) 10(6)Selected Laboratory Methods - 4(3) 3(2) - 8(5)Physical Chemistry - - - 2 2Fundamentals of Genetics and Immunology - - - 2 2 Non-Compulsory SubjectsLatin Language 2(2) - - - 2(2)Type-writing 2(2) - - - 2(2)Foreign Language Conversation 2(2) 2(2) 2(2) 2(2) 8(8)Sports 2 2 2 2 8Driving - - -(2) 2 2 The number of hours in brackets shows the proportion of practical lessons to the total number hours.Approved by the Ministry of Health of the Slovak Republic on June 17, 1992, after the agreement with the Ministry of Education, Youths and Sport of the Slovak Republic.Effective September 1, 1992.File Nr. Z-3186/1992-A 4982/1992-21

Certified Medical LaboratorianAnticipated for 1997-1998

(Part-time Post-secondary Courses for graduates of Medical Laboratorian Courses)

Categories and Number of Hours perNames of Subjects Half of a Second Year Total 1 2 3 Compulsory subjects 105 105 105 315 General subjects and languagesForeign language(English or German) 10(10) 10(10) 10(10) 30(30Psychology and Ethics 10 - - 10Management and Law 15 - - 15Application of Informatics 20(20) - - 20(20)

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Specialized subjectsClinical Biochemistry 15 20(10) 15(5) 50(15)Hematology and Transfusiontechnology 15 20(10) 15(5) 50(15)Clinical Microbiology 10 25(10) 15(5) 50(15)Clinical Pathology 10 20(10) 20(5) 50(15)Methodology of Research - 10(10) - 10(10)Selected Seminar - - 30(30) 30(30) The number of hours in brackets shows the proportion of practical lessons to the total number of hours. The above course can only be studied by those applicants who are employed in a field directly related to the studied specialization.

During the program students are obliged to pass practicals at health care settings at the following departments:

Clinical biochemistry - 75 hours Hematology and transfusion technology - 75 hours Clinical microbiology - 75 hours Nuclear medicine - 75 hours

If a student is employed in one of these areas, the practice experience is waived for that department.

Following completion of the program, a student must pass an official theoretical and practical examination in all areas in front of a committee. Successful passing of these examinations qualifies a student to take a final examination which includes a written thesis and defense. After this is successfully passed the student receives a Certificate (Diploma).

Curricula for Baccalaureate and Master’s degree courses are currently under review

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

4-year Medical Laboratorian Programs

Training for Medical Laboratorian courses in the Slovak Republic can be obtained at the following secondary health care schools (SZŠ):

SZŠ, J. BraneckéhoTrencin, 4, 911 67 Tel/Fax: 0831/20057Director H. Kobzová, Ph.D.

SZŠ, Záhradnica44, 821 08, BratislavaDirector O. Bachratá, Ph.D. Tel: 07/60598; Fax: 60598

SZŠ, Tajovského24, 974 29, BanskáDirector Vladimir Dianiska, MA. Tel: 088/30434; Fax: 30434

SZŠ, Moyzesova17, 040 01, KosiceDirector Olga Králová, RND. Tel: 095/6221162; Fax: 6221162

Currently, legislation is being prepared that would enable those secondary schools providing post-secondary courses for Certified Medical Laboratorians, to become institutions of higher education.

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Bachelor’s Program

University-level courses are being planned at:

University of Trnava (Trnavská Univerzita) Hornopotocná 23, 918 43 Trnava. Dean of the Faculty Prof. Vladimir Krcméry, M.D., Dr.Sc. Tel: 0805/252 83; Fax: 0805/214 83

Non-degree/non-title Continuing Education post-graduate specialized coursesThese courses of specialization studies are available at:

Institút pre dalsie vzdelávanie zdravotnickych pracovnikov(Institute of Post-Graduate Education of Health Care Providers), Limbova 12, 833 03 Bratislava.Director: Mr. Májek, M.D., Csc.Deputy Director for Education: Dana Farkasová, Ph.D., CSc.

These programs are not designed for transfer to a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.


(a) Accreditation - Programs are accredited by the Ministry of Health, the Slovak Republic.

(b) Certification/Licensure - Successful passage of the final examination (Maturita) at the end of the Secondary Health Care School program for Medical Laboratorians entitle graduates to practice in health care settings in the following departments: Clinical Biochemistry, Hematology and Transfusiology, Clinical Microbiology, Clinical Pathology (Histology and Histological Technology). No special government permission (license/certification) is required.

(c) Professional Association - Sloveská komora stredných zdravotníckych pracovníkov (SKSZP) Strecnianska 12, 851 05 Bratislava Tel/Fax: (42) 07 820 088 [Laboratory Section of Slovak Chamber of Secondary School Educated Health Care Practioners]


According to the law passed in 1994, a foreign citizen interested in working in the Republic of Slovakia Health Care (state-owned or private) needs confirmation from SKSZP.


PresidentSloveská komora stredných zdravotníckych pracovníkov (SKSZP)

Strecnianska 12, 851 05 BratislavaTel/Fax: 07 820 088

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REPUBLIC OF KOREA

1. EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM OUTLINE

Before 1991:High school Diploma

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12primary school secondary school

Junior College 1 2 Medical Technologist (Diploma)

1 2

Post-Junior College 1 Medical Technologist *

Post-B.Sc. 1 2 3 4 B.S.1 Medical Technologist **

Hospital Training 1 2 3 Medical Technologist *

4 -Year College 1 2 3 4 B.S. Medical Technologist

Graduate School 1 2 3 M.P.H. ***

Since 1991: Formal education system to be qualified as a Medical Technologist or Medical Laboratory Scientist:

High school Diploma1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

primary school middle sch. High school

Junior College (Medical Technology) 1 2 3 Associated Degree(AD) in Medical Technology

Undergraduate (Health Science) 1 2 3 4 B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science

Graduate (Health Science) 1 2 + M.Sc. or M.P.H. ***

Note: All candidates for the medical technologist should take both written and practice tests of the National Licensure Examination.* These category programs are being phased out.** A one-year training program for persons with 2 or more years of study towards the B.Sc.*** Master of Public Health.

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2. COUNTRY BACKGROUND AND LICENSURE PROGRAM

Although the educational system in Republic of Korea is highly centralized, it has become more flexible under the Ministry of Education and Human Resources(MOEHR) lately. The Ministry is responsible for the management, development and supervision at all levels of education in both the public and private sectors.

The academic year in South Korea generally lasts from March to February with a 2-semester system: spring semester (or first semester) lasts from March to August and fall semester (or second semester) runs from September to February.

Most of Medical Laboratory Science education is offered in a Department of Clinical Laboratory Science of universities and junior colleges.

Following the completion of primary and secondary education and the high school diploma, students may enter either the 4-year programs or 3-year programs, majoring in medical laboratory science leading to the Bachelor of Science(B.S.) degree or Associate Degree(AD) in Medical Technology, respectively.

Graduates of the 4-year programs with B.S. degree who wish to go on to advanced courses can enroll in graduate schools of health sciences at universities which offer 4 to 5-semester courses leading to the Master of Science or Master of Public Health.

Those who completed educational training programs and became eligible to be Medical Technologists are entitled to sit for the National Licensure Examination. Those who pass the examination (both written and practice) are licensed as Medical Technologists by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. The passing scores for the written test should be above 40% in each major subject area, above 60% for the practice test and above 60% in average total.


There are several levels of training programs leading to the National Examination for Medical Technologist in Korea:

1. 3-year education and training for the AD in Medical Technology (20) 2. 4-year undergraduate program for the B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science(3)

( ): Number of educational programs For career advancement, graduates with the B.S. degree in Medical Laboratory Science(MLS) can enroll in Medical Laboratory Science or MLS-related graduate courses at colleges or universities. These courses have no correlation with the career advancement that means there is no vertical ladder for professional advancement or the specialist certification programs in the country. No advantages are given to students with MS or higher degrees either before or after the Licensure Examination. The system of grade classification and specialist certification is now under review.


Entrance to Medical Laboratory Science study at either the 3-year programs or the 4-year bachelor’s degree programs requires completion of the 12-year primary/secondary school sequence. Admission is based on the applicant’s high school transcript and scores of the National Scholastic Achievement Examination for College Entrance (SAECE).


Medical Laboratory Science programs at both levels are multitute.

Major subjects offered are:

(1) Clinical Chemistry and Urinalysis(2) Hematology and Blood Transfusion(3) Microbiology and Parasitology

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(4) Immunology and Serology(5) Cytology and Histology(6) Clinical Physiology(7) Molecular Biology(8) On-site Practical Lab. Training(9) Other basic sciences including Information Technology(IT), and humanities

The Licensure Examination is given by the National Health Personnel Licensing Examination Board(NHPLEB) the organization commissioned by the Ministry of Health and Welfare in two parts; written and practical tests.

Subjects covered in the examinations are:

(1) Clinical Chemistry and Urinalysis (Radioisotopes included)(2) Clinical Microbiology and Immunology(3) Clinical Hematology and Blood Transfusion(4) Parasitology(5) Histopathology and Cytology(6) Physiological Function(7) Other tests covered: Anatomy, Physiology, Public Health and Health Related Laws and Regulations.

6. CURRICULUM

The current academic year in Korea is 2 semesters, although some colleges may adopt a quarter system in the future. One semester hour is defined as a class period of one hour of lecture and two hours of laboratory work for a 16-week semester. Students are required to take 140 to 145 credit hours to finish the undergraduate courses and 120 to 125 credit hours to complete the AD program. Since 1991, when the MLS program was extended from the previous two years to the current three years, mandatory 10-credit hour hospital training was imposed. This 10-credit hour hospital training accounts for just half of a semester.

Though designation and execution of the curriculum depend upon each college’s policy, most of the curricula are focused on the National Licensure Examination. Both the curricula of the 4-year program and that of the 3-year program are organized mainly into three areas:

(1) Humanities (foreign languages included);(2) Basic sciences including information technology(3) Majoring in medical laboratory science: The subjects in major are classified as elective and compulsory courses.

Grading system

Most of the colleges in Korea use the following grading scale : Scores Grade 95 - 100% A+

90 - 94% Ao

85 -89% B+

80 - 84% Bo

75 - 79% C+

70 - 74% Co

65 -69% D+

60 - 64% Do

Below 59% F

Courses with grades of 59% and under must be repeated.

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Sample curricula

4-Year Bachelor of Science Degree Program in Medical Laboratory Science (Students in the 4-year program complete 140-145 credits for the bachelor’s degree)

Year I

Subjects Semester Hours First Semester Second Semester credit hr/wk credit hr/wkKorean 2 2 2 2English 3 4 3 4History 3 3Chapel P 1 P 1Differential and Integral Calculus 3 4Analytical Geometry 3 4Chemistry-lecture & laboratory 3 4 3 4Biology-lecture & laboratory 3 4Physics-lecture & laboratory 3 4 Subtotal 17 22 14 19

Year II

Subjects Semester Hours First Semester Second Semester credit hr/wk credit hr/wkSocial science 3 3Chapel P 1 P 1Comprehension of Christianity 3 3Computer Science 1 3 1 3Inorganic chemistry 3 3Biochemistry 3 3Microbiology (1) 3 3Microbiology (2)-lecture & laboratory 3 4Parasitology-lecture & laboratory 3 4Anatomy 3 4Analytical Chemistry 3 3Instrumentation 3 3Pathology 3 3Introduction to Clinical Pathology 3 3Medical Electronics 2 2 Subtotal 19 24 21 25

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Year III

Subjects Semester Hours First Semester Second Semester credit hr/wk credit hr/wkEnzymology 3 3Clinical Microbiology-lecture & laboratory 3 4 3 4Physiology 3 3Hematology 3 3Hematology-lecture & laboratory 3 4Cytology-lecture & laboratory 3 4Immunology 3 3Immunohematology-lecture & laboratory 2 3Health Statistics 2 2Philosophy 3 3Histology-lecture & laboratory 3 3Clinical Chemistry-lecture & laboratory (1) 3 4Radioisotopes 2 2Virology 3 3 Subtotal 22 25 20 24

Year IV

Subjects Semester Hours First Semester Second Semester credit hr/wk credit hr/wkThesis 2 2Laws & Regulations in Health Affairs 1 1Serology 2 2Molecular Biology 3 3Diagnostic Cytology 3 3Clinical Chemistry-lecture & laboratory (II) 3 4Clinical Physiology 3 4Animal Experiments 2 2Seminar 1 1Hospital on-site training 18 36 Subtotal 20 22 18 36

Grand Total 78 93 73 104

151 Credits (197 hours)

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3-Year Associate Degree Program in Medical Laboratory Science (Students in the 3-year junior college program complete 120-125 credits for the diploma)

Year ISubjects Semester Hours First Semester Second Semester credit hr/wk credit hr/wkPhilosophy 2 2Korean 2 2Physical Education 2 2English 1 1 1 1Psychology 2 2Computer Science 2 2Japanese 2 2Biology 2 2 1 1Chemistry 2 2Organic Chemistry 2 2Microbiology 2 2Microbiology-Laboratory 1 2Clinical Chemistry (I) 2 2 2 2Hematology 1 1 2 2Anatomy 2 2 2 2Pathology 2 2 2 2Parasitology-lecture & laboratory 1 2 2 2 Subtotal 21 22 21 22

Year II Computer Science-laboratory 1 2Statistical Package 2 2Japanese 2 2Medical English 2 2 2 2Public Health 2 2 1 1Health Statistics 2 2Physiological Chemistry 2 2 1 1Urinalysis-lecture & laboratory 1 2 2 2Clinical Microbiology 2 2 3 3Clinical Microbiology-laboratory 1 2 1 2Clinical Chemistry (II) 2 2Clinical Chemistry-laboratory (I) 1 2 2 3Hematology-laboratory 1 2Molecular Biology & Laboratory 1 1 2 2Clinical Physiology 3 3Clinical Physiology-laboratory 1 2Histopathology 3 3Histopathology-laboratory 1 2Serology-laboratory 1 2 1 2 Subtotal 23 30 23 27

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Year III

Subjects Semester Hours First Semester Second Semester credit hr/wk credit hr/wkHospital on-site training 10 20Clinical Chemistry-laboratory (II) 1 2 1 2Hematology-laboratory 1 2 1 2Clinical Physiology 1 2Blood Banking & Transfusion 2 2Mycology 2 2Health Insurance-lecture & practice 2 2 1 2Cytology-lecture & laboratory 2 3Histology 2 2Nuclear Medicine 2 2Instrumentation 2 2Laws & Regulations in Health Affairs 2 2Immunology 2 2Pharmacology 2 2 Subtotal 21 35 14 18

Grand Total 65 87 50 67 124 credits


(a) Accreditation - Educational Institutes and hospitals for education and training of medical laboratory science are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources and the Ministry of

Health and Welfare (MOHW).

(b) Licensure - Those who completed education, and are eligible to be Medical Technologists are entitled to sit for the Licensure Examination. Although annual license renewal is not necessary, all medical technologists in active status should report to the Ministry of Health and Welfare no later than May 31 of every year.

No fee is charged. Only these licensed medical technologists can perform diagnostic-related tests, and employment of non-licensed personnel in laboratories is legally prohibited.

10-credit hours/year of continuing education (CE) became mandatory from 1994. Those who failed to earn CE credits will be either fined or the license is suspended for a period of time depending upon the seriousness of the violation.

(c) Certification -. The International Association of Cytologists (IAC) offers a training program and certification examination for licensed cytotechnologists.

(d) Professional Association - There is only one professional association for medical technologists in Korea, the Korean Association of Medical Technologists (KAMT). Licensed medical technologists can join the KAMT on the voluntary basis. Members should pay annual dues. Members of the Association are eligible to be a member of branch divisions of specialties to promote his or her academic standards. KAMT has been an active member association of IFBLS(formerly IAMLT), since 1972:

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The Korean Association of Medical Technologists (KAMT) 201 Myung Sin Building, 165-15 Samsung-Dong Tel: (02) 508-5591 Kangnam-Ku, Seoul, Korea 135-090 Fax: (02) 508-5592


Credit Transfer: Credits earned from either the 3-year or 4-year program are inter-transferable. Foreign Medical Technologists: The licensure system of Korea is an exclusive policy that all foreign-licensed or certified medical technologists should take both written and practical portions of the licensure examination required by the MOHW of Korea. This system applies to almost all the medical professions in Korea.


Prof. Sun Chul Whang or Prof. Kyung-Jin Cho(Authors) School of Allied Health Sciences, Korea University

Mt. 1 Jeongnung-Dong, Sungbuk-Ku Tel: (02) 914-4974Seoul, Korea 136-703 Fax: (02) 917-2833

or

Woon Heung Song(in communication with the authors) President The Korean Association of Medical Technologists (KAMT)

201 Myung Sin Building165-15 Samsung-Dong, Kangnam-Ku Tel: (02) 508-5591

Seoul, Korea 135-090 Fax: (02) 508-5592

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SWAZILAND


Proposed

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 School Leaving Certificate1 2 Certificate, Laboratory Assistant

Technician

As of 1997 Swaziland does not have any Laboratory Science programs. Candidates for training in Medical Laboratory Science generally receive their education outside the country after completion of the School Leaving Certificate.

Minimum requirements for admission to programs vary from country to country. Generally these programs require a Pass with Credit in 2 Science subjects, Mathematics and English.


Swaziland does not and has not had a formal training program for laboratory personnel. Any existing training has been in the form of in-service training.

Due to poor working conditions and low salaries in this area, school leavers generally find the profession unattractive. Candidates recruited for on-the-job training are those with a School Leaving Certificate, most of whom do not meet the entry requirements for laboratory programs outside the country, but qualify as good bench workers, under a supervisor.

Over the years, school leaving students who have met entry requirements have been sent to neighboring countries and abroad for training as technicians or technologists. Because of lack of finances, only a few have managed to obtain degrees or further their qualifications. With population growth, and the establishment of more health facilities that has necessitated the continuing training and upgrading of laboratorians, consideration is being given to the establishment of a 2-year training program for Laboratory Assistant Technicians.

3. LEVELS AND LENGTH OF TRAINING (for proposed program.)

Although still at the rudimentary planning stage, the proposed Level and Length of Training will be as follows: 1) The training program will take 2 years.

2) On successful completion of the 2-year program a student will be awarded a Certificate as a Laboratory Assistant Technician and be eligible to work in public and private laboratories and to pursue further training outside the country.

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4. ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS (for proposed program)

The program will accept students with the School Leaving Certificate with credits in English, Mathematics, Biology and Physical Science.

5. SCOPE OF THE FIELD (for proposed program)

The training program will be polyvalent and cover all laboratory disciplines including Microbiology, Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Blood Banking, Immunology etc. Medical Laboratorians in Swaziland work in government hospital laboratories, veterinary government laboratories, private clinic laboratories, public health laboratories owned by local governments and food industries. The chance for promotion in the field is currently limited by financial restrictions.

6. CURRICULUM (for proposed program)

The curriculum is not yet drafted. Assistance in the development of this curriculum is still needed from already established institutions.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS(For proposed program.) Not yet identified 8. PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION Questions on registration, licensing , certification and accreditation of programs can be sent to:Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 5, Mbabane, Swaziland.


1. Foreign-trained Swazi nationals are required to produce authentic documents of their qualifications to qualify for work. In most cases their training program curriculum is known by the Swazi government.

2. Foreign-trained non-Swazi personnel are required to submit proof of registration in their country of origin and a certificate of good standing, plus academic and professional qualifications, before they can be allowed to apply for registration in Swaziland.

3. There are no special arrangements that allow our Medical Laboratory personnel to practice abroad.


Edna AndradeP.O. Box 1255Manzini, Swaziland

Tel: (+268) 52481/3 (W) (+263) 54805 (H)Fax: (+268) 53992 (W) (+268) 54805 (H)

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SWEDEN1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE

Prior to 19991 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Upper-secondary school

1 2 3 m Medical Technologist(90 points) in the followingspecializations

1 2 3m +6 points blood bankingClinical chemistry

1 2 3m +6 points blood bankingMicrobiology

1 2 3m +24 points clinical cytology **Morphological cell biology

1 2 3mClinical physiology

1 2 3 m Biochemistry-Molecular Biology

1 First degree in Molecular biology& Biotechniques (40 points)

1 2 Graduate degree (80 points)

1 2 Doctorate degree(160 total points)

NoteNumbers indicate academic years of 40 weeks; 3 m= 3 months

* 5-6 weeks preparatory courses in sciences** Specialization training in clinical cytology (24 points also available for majors in Clinical Chemistry and Microbiology

Since 1999

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12Comprehensive school Upper secondary

school

1 2 3 Medical Technologist* (120 points)

1 Master’s degree (40 points)

1 2 Licentiate degree (80 points)

3 4 Doctor degree 80 additional points

* Kkandidatexamen I biomedinsk laboratorievetenskap = B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory Science

2. COUNTRY BACKGROUNDMedical laboratory science education in Sweden dates to l883 when a clinical laboratory was established in Uppsala for clinical diagnostics and practical medicine. Five years later, this was followed by a bacteriological laboratory at the Institute of Pathology in Lund. In these early laboratories the physicians themselves performed the laboratory examinations and experiments. Over the years they took assistants who had to learn by experience, as no formal programs were available. As late as the l940s there was no uniform training in medical laboratory science. Various practical training programs extended from one to three years.

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1942 is an important year in the history of Medical Laboratory Technology in Sweden. That year the medical laboratory technologists and the nurses were organized to work toward better and more unified training. Members of the medical laboratory organization now had to have two years of training in a laboratory. In l945 the first theoretical course in histopathology was held. It covered two years of practical training with theory lessons two nights a week. Subjects of study were: anatomy, histology, chemistry, photography, bacteriology, pathology and also included laboratory experiments. From l947, the government has allotted a budget for the training of medical laboratorians.

The first medical laboratory school (Laborantskola) was established in l957 and the number had grown to 13 by the time Medical Laboratory education was reformed in l977 and brought into the higher education sector. By l982 the reform had been implemented. The 13 laboratory programs are now college/university-level programs offered in institutions variously referred to as Vardhogskolor (College of Health caring sciences) or Halsohogskolan (University of Health). The basic program for the title Medical Laboratory Technologist or “Laboratorie-assistent” lasts 2 l/4 years (or 90 “pöang” or points). According to the Swedish educational system, each week of study equals one point and the complete academic year consists of 40 points. Graduates of the Medical Laboratory Technology programs receive the College or University Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology.

Up to 1993 The National Board of Universities and Colleges or “Universitet-högskole ambetet” (UHA) drew up nationally valid study programs and set general and specific goals and the main program contents. At the local level, study committees composed of representatives of the profession, teachers and students developed the training programs.

Following an educational reform in 1993 all programs comprised 120 points. No nationally valid program syllabi were laid down but all decisions concerning the programs were taken at the local level. The quality control was the responsibility of the University Chancellor who granted the right to examination to the individual colleges/universities.

Between 1994 (when the European version of the Directory was published) and 2000 the Swedish educational program changed dramatically. In 1999 a new law was enacted and a 3-year program of full-time study (120) points that leads to an examination as Biomedical Laboratory Scientist and a B.Sc. in Biomedical Laboratory Science has replaced earlier programs. (See below for details)


Prior to 1999a. Basic Medical Laboratory Education:

Medical laboratory technologist – 2.25 years of training, including at least 20 weeks of laboratory practice. (1) Additional 6-week (point) course in blood banking (2) Additional 24-week (point) course in cytology (3) Additional 40-week (point) course leading to a first degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechniques (Biochemistry, theory and methods with gene technology, immunology theory and methods, cell biology, research methods and ethics). This program was available since January l987. b. Postgraduate Education: (4) Master’s degree requiring two years of study in a Faculty of Medicine or a Faculty of Social Science following the first degree (80 points). (5) Doctoral degree requiring 4 years of full-time or 8 years of part-time study following the first degree (160 points).

Opportunities also existed for Medical Laboratory Technologists to train in Education (Teaching) in a 60-point (l 1/2 year) program of theory and practice as well as in Health Administration in programs of 20-60 points.

As of 1999a. Basic Biomedical laboratory education (120 points) Medical laboratory technologists complete 3 years of full-time education including at least 20 weeks of laboratory practice and examination

project (thesis) covering 10 weeks studies (10 points). (Requirements: minimum total: total of 120 points; major subject of at least 60 points; degree project of 10 points)

b. Master’s degree (40)

The general requirements for a Masters degree are:- A minimum of 160 points in total (includes 120 in Basic Biomedical laboratory edu.)- A major subject of at least 80 points (includes 60 earned in Basic Bio. Med Lab.)- A degree project (thesis) of 20 points

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c. Licentiate degree (80 points)This corresponds to 50% of the studies toward a doctorate. (2 years full-time study or 4 years part-time in a Faculty of Medicine or a Faculty of Social Science following the First degree, 80 points)

d. Doctoral degreeRequires 4 years full-time studies or 8 years part-time following the First degree


Prior to 1999There was a central admissions committee for all the Medical Laboratory programs: The County Council Association’s Admissions Committee LFA (Landstings förbundets antagningsnämnd) Box 1054 S-551 Jönköping

Entry RequirementsThe minimum basic entry requirement, as for all higher education, was successful completion of upper-secondary school or equivalent education. This meant completion of at least 2 years (grade 11) of the upper secondary school program including mathematics and natural sciences. Students with the background or in need of a refresher course were encouraged to complete a 5-6 week preparatory course in mathematics, physics and chemistry.

As of 1999As of 1999 a central admission agency is responsible for all university programs:

The National Agency for Higher Education VHF (Verket for hogskoleservice)SE-833 82 Strömsund (mailing address)Drottningholmvägen 37 (visiting address)StockholmTel: 46 8 545 515 40 Internet: www.vhs.se

The minimum basic entry requirements for all programs of higher education constitute successful completion of upper-secondary school or equivalent education. This means completion of at least 3 years (grade 12) of the upper secondary school program including mathematics and natural sciences.


Education in medical laboratory science in Sweden prepares the graduate for the profession of Medical Laboratory Technologist in laboratories for health and medical care, in biomedical and veterinary research, in the pharmaceutical industry and in related aspects of the food industry.

Prior to 1999Education for medical laboratorians was divided into 5 specializations or tracks: 1. Clinical Chemistry (including hematology and blood banking) 2. Microbiology 3. Morphological cell biology (previously Histopathology) 4. Clinical Physiology 5. Biochemistry/Molecular biology

In addition to the standardized education all medical laboratory technologists could train in cytotechnology (24 points)

Clinical Chemists and microbiologists had an opportunity for specialized courses in blood banking (6 points)

Since 1999As of 1999 the basic university education for biomedical (medical) laboratory science is a general education. The student chooses a specialization during the latter part of the program. The examination project/thesis, covering 10 points, is a specialization within a subject area chosen by the student.

http://www.vhs.se

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The basic education in biomedical laboratory science qualifies the student for further education leading to a higher degree qualification. The Master’s degree comprises 40 points. The Licentiate degree program (licentiatexamen) comprises 80 points and includes a degree thesis of 40 points. A Ph.D. comprises an additional 80 points and includes a written dissertation, which is defended in public.

6. CURRICULUMPrior to 1999The curriculum for Biomedical laboratory science education was divided into two course segments. The first segment (A & B below) of at least 50 points offered the basic biomedical laboratory science, including basic level of natural science, technical and medical subjects. The second segment (C below) of about 40 points gave the required specialization in a 40-week program, which also included a period of laboratory practice (about 20 weeks) in diagnostic and research laboratories of a hospital, primary health care facility or other suitable location. During this period the students had to do a project, which was presented both orally and in writing.

There was a five to six week voluntary preparatory course in natural sciences (mathematics, physics, chemistry). This course was recommended for any student entering without the 12th grade or who might need a refresher course

STUDY PROGRAM 90 POINTS (For students starting - 1987 or after)

Specific Laboratory Science; A through C segment most with 40 points:

Clinical | Clinical Chemistry | Microbiology | Biochemistry | MorphologicalPhysiology | including | including | Molecular | Cell Biology C | Hematology & | Transfusion | Biology | Transfusion | Medicine | Medicine |

Basic biomedical laboratory science at least 50 points: B

Microbiological methodsBiochemical methodsImmunological methodsMolecular biological methods

Natural Scientific subjects with laboratory methods AMedical subjects with laboratory methods-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Students progressed from course level A to B to C. Individual schools developed the detailed curricula. For a sample detailed curriculum see 1991 Medical Laboratory Technology “Study Programme” from Stockholm College of Health and Caring Sciences Colleges Appendix A. Preparatory courses of 5 points in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

STUDY PROGRAM 90 POINTS (1982-1987) Outline of program

_______________________________________________________________40 points C Special laboratory methods pertaining to each of the specializations_______________________________________________________________30 points B General laboratory methods_______________________________________________________________10 points A2 Natural sciences: mathematics, physics, and chemistry

10 points A1 10-point basic course in behavioral sciences, social studies_______________________________________________________________

Further studies were available in Medical Laboratory Technology for students with concentrations in:

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1) Clinical Physiology Molecular biology and Biotechnology 40 points Nuclear Medicine 20 points

2) Clinical Chemistry Blood group serology 2+2+2 (totaling 6) points Molecular biology and Biotechnology 40 points Medical Computer Science 10 points

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3) Microbiology Blood group serology 2+2+2 (totaling 6) points Molecular biology and Biotechnology 40 points

4) Biochemistry Molecular Biology Molecular Biology and Biotechnology 40 points

5) Morphological Cell biology Clinical cytology 24 points Molecular biology and Biotechnology 40 points

Examinations and Grading

All courses include written and oral examinations, but there is no overall examination.

Grading is Pass/Fail.Since 1999

As of 1999 the curriculum for Biomedical Laboratory Technology education is organized in courses covering 5, 10 and 20 points each; 60 points in the principal subject, Biomedical Laboratory Science, and 60 points in natural science and medical subjects. An examination thesis, covering 10 points, must be included in the program leading to the Bachelor’s degree.

Laboratory practice (about 20 weeks) in diagnostic and research laboratories of a hospital, primary health care facility or other suitable location is included in the third year. During this period the students have to complete a project (10 points=10 weeks) presented both orally and in writing.

Only passing grades are registered.Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Laboratory Science 120 points

Malmö University – 1999*

Year 1Course 1, 20 points Course 2, 20 points Biomedical Laboratory Science, 5 points Biomedical Laboratory Science, 5 points Basic Laboratory Methodology Biochemical methods Natural Science, 15 points Natural Science, 15 points Chemistry Biochemistry and cell biology including Laboratory instruments Methodology Biochemistry Microbiology Physics Immunology Nuclear physics Molecular biology Statistics Genetics Computer science

Year 2Course 3 Course 4, 20 points Biomedicine, 20 points Biomedical Laboratory Science, 10 points Anatomy & physiology Cell culturing Physiological & clinical chemistry Cytology & morphological methodology Hematology Immunological methodology Transfusion medicine Biomedicine, 10 points * Histology including morphological Nec. Skill handling experimental animals Methodology Cytology General pathology Pharmacology

Molecular biology Statistics

Year 3Course 5 Course 6 Biomedical Laboratory Science 10 points Biomedical Laboratory Science, 20 points Advanced courses each comprising at least 5 points

Courses in applied lab. methodology each comprising at least 10 points

Course 7 Biomedical Lab Sci. Degree project, 10 pts Individually advanced work comprising 10 pts

Advanced CoursesBiochemical methods Clinical chemical methods Neurophysiological methodsMicrobiological methods Molecular biological methods Nuclear medicine, ultrasoundClinical physiological methods Morphological methodology Transfusion medical methodsHistology & pathological Microbiological methods examination methods

*To illustrate the laboratory as a workplace the courses 1-4 include components within subject areas of work environment, ergonomics, management administration, economics, ethics, pedagogy, and quality assurance. Methodology in scientific research is included in all courses.

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. LIST OF PROGRAMS

1. Göteborgs universitet Biomedicinsk analytikerutbildning (Programmet för medicinsk laboratorievetenskap) Box 100 SE-405 30 Göteborg Tel: +46 31 773913 Website: http://www.gu.se (Formerly Vårdhögskolan i Göteborg)

2. Hälsohögskolan i Jönköping Institutionen för naturvetenskap och biomedicin (Programmet for medicinsk laboratorievetenskap) Box 1038 SE-551 11 Jönköping Tel: +46 36 32 48 30 website: http://www.hj.se/hhj 3. Karlstads universitet Biomedicinsk analytikerutbildning SE-651 88 Karlstad Tel: + 46 54 7001735 website: http://www.kau.se (Formerly Hälsohögskolan i Karlstad)

4 Lunds universitet Biomedicinsk analytikerutbildning Box 117 SE-221 00 Lund Tel: +46 46 2221815 website: http://www.bama.lu.se (Formerly Vårdhögskolan Lund – Helsingborg)

5 Malmö Högskola Hälsa och samhälle Biomedicinsk analytikerutbildning SE-205 06 Malmo Tel: +46 40 921244 http://www.hs.mah.se/Bma/English/index.html (Formerly Vårhögskolan i Malmö)

6 Karolinska Institutet Biomedicinsk analytikerutbildning SE-171 77 Stockholm Tel.:46 8 728 36 23 website: http://www.info.ki.se (Formerly: Hälsohögskolan i Stockholm)

7 Mithögskolan Biomedicinsk analytikerutbildning Box 860 SE-851 24 Sundsvall Tel: 46 60 148 526 website: http://www.mh.se (Formerly Vårdhögskolan Sundsvall/Örnsköldsvik)

8 Umeå Universitet Biomedicinsk analytikerutbildning SE-901 87 Umeå Tel: +46 90 7869149 website: http://umu.vardutb/bma.html (Formerly Hälsohögskolan i Umeå)

9 Uppsala universitet Enheten för laboratorievetenskap

http://www.gu.se

http://www.hj.se/hhj

http://www.kau.se

http://www.bama.lu.se

http://www.hs.mah.se/Bma/English/index.html

http://www.info.ki.se

http://www.mh.se

http://umu.vardutb/bma.html

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Box 256 SE-751 05 Uppsala Tel: +46 18 4716655 website: http:// www.uu.se (Formerly: Vårdhögskolan i Umeå))

10. Örebro universitet Biomedicinsk analytikerutbildning SE-701 82 Örebro Tel: +46 19 303671 website http://www.oru.se (Formerly: Vårdhögskolan i Örebro)


Prior to 1999a. Accreditation -

The Vårdhögskolor (Colleges of Health and caring sciences) are government institutions. The National Board of Universities or “Universitets-högskole ambelet” (UHA) set general and specific goals and specifies the main program content.

b. Licensure - There was no legal requirement for practice.

c. Certification -Professional recognition was graduation from the medical laboratory specialization (laboratorie-assistentlinjen) in a health care program at a Health Care College (Vårdhögskola). The certificate was “Högskoleexamen i biomedicinsk laboratorievetenskap”, University Certificate in Biomedical Laboratory Science.

d. The professional association for medical laboratory technologists in Sweden was the S.L.F.: Svenska Laboratorieassistentföreningen

Other Associations.

Swedish Association of Health Offices (vårdforbundet)Box 3260S-10365 Stockholm

As of 1999

a. Accreditation -The Biomedical Laboratory Science program is conducted at national universities (within the education system). The National

Agency for Higher Education VHS (Verket för högskoleservice) is the supervising authority for the program.

b. Licensure - A successful completion of the basic educational program in Biomedical Laboratory Science is compulsory to obtain employment as a

medical laboratory technologist. The title Biomedicinsk analytiker (biomedical scientist) is a protected professional title.

c. Certification -Graduation from Biomedical Laboratory Technologist education or a Biomedical Laboratory Science program gives professional recognition. The certificate is the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Laboratory Science “Kandidatexamen i biomedicinsk laboratorieveteenskap.” Professional examination is Yrkesexamen i biomedicinsk laboratorievetenskap.” Candidates for certification take both the professional examination and the Bachelor examination

d. The professional association for Medical Laboratory Technologists is: Institutet för biomedicinsk laboratorievetenskap (IBL)Adolf Fredriks Kyrkogata 11SE-111 37 StockholmTel: +46 8-24-01-30 Fax: +46 8-24-01-24 www.ibl-inst.se

Other AssociationsVårdförbundet (Swedish Association of Health Officers)Box 3260

http://www.uu.se

http://www.oru.se

http://www.ibl-inst.se

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SE-103 65 Stockholm


The National Board of HealthSE-106 30 StockholmSWEDEN Tel: +46 8 555 Fax + 46 8 555 532 53 Textphone: +46 8 555 532 48e-mail: [email protected] <mail to: [email protected]>

The Board is designated Competent Authority under European Community directives on mutual recognition of diplomas concerning health profession.

For further information contact the Swedish Association directly at:

www.ibl-inst.seor

[email protected]


http://www.ibl-inst.se


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SWITZERLAND1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Gymnasium (optional)

1 2 3 DiplomaMedical Laboratory Technolgist*

1* 2* 3* Work Experience

1 2 Higher CertificateM e d i c a l LaboratoryTechnology andManagement/Education600 hrs. Part-time


By Federal Act of June 13, l95l and by an Agreement in l976 between the Swiss Red Cross and the Swiss Cantons (federal states), the Swiss Red Cross is in charge of the regulation, supervision, and promotion of medical-technical education as well as the education of nursing and medical-therapeutical personnel.

Medical laboratory science education in Switzerland takes place at the upper secondary education level (in several schools the high school diploma is required) in higher vocational institutions for medical- technical training. The schools cooperate closely with hospitals and medical/scientific institutes.

Education for the diploma of Graduate Medical Laboratory Technologist (German: Diplomierte medizinische Laborantin; French: Laborantine médicale diplomée; Italian: Laboratorista medica diplomata) lasts 3 years. The minimum annual vacation is 5 weeks, so that the academic year comprises 11 months. Both theoretical and practical educations are given at the school. In addition, clinical training is undertaken in approved medical laboratories.

In accordance with the overall objectives of the Swiss Red Cross and in accordance with its guidelines, graduates in possession of a diploma of Medical Laboratory Technology must:

- Be able to carry out the analytical techniques perfectly and independently,- Be aware of the importance of their work for the patients and for the running of the hospital or institute, for which they work,- Be capable of treating the material to be examined correctly, observing all essential security measures, - Be able to evaluate and guarantee the quality of the work performed in the laboratory,- Have the capability to develop analytical methods, and- Take responsibility for the results produced in the laboratory.

In each school the Director is in charge of organizing the theoretical and practical training according to directives from the Swiss Red Cross, including the examinations and the selection of Clinical training places for the students. The Director holds a Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma and/or has an appropriate university degree in a medical or scientific field and has acquired further training necessary to fulfill the duties.

The teaching staffs of the schools are holders of a University degree or other degrees such as the Medical Laboratory Technologist Diploma, with appropriate preparation for the work at the technical, methodological and pedagogical level.

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In 1998 the Swiss Red Cross approved new guidelines for Medical Laboratory Technology. The schools will have until 2004 to adapt their programs.

Furthermore, in 1999 the Ministers of Health agreed on a new system of education in the health professions at the tertiary level, the Diploma level. As a consequence curriculum and entrance requirements will change in the next two years, although these changes have not yet been implemented as the Directory goes to press.


1) Medical Laboratory Technologist -- 3 years of theoretical and practical training at the upper secondary school level, grades 11-13.

2) Higher certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology: after 3 years practice and 600 hours additional education in management/education and Medical Laboratory Technology.


Prior to 1999For admission to the 3-year diploma program:

- Candidates must have a minimum of 10 years of basic education including science subjects [in some schools a high school diploma (baccalauréat/Maturitats Zeugnis) is required.)

- Candidates are required to have intellectual and practical aptitude and character, determined by appropriate tests, interviews and examination of the application form.

Since 1999

In 1999 the Ministers of Health agreed on a new system of education for all health professions at the tertiary level, the Diploma level. As a consequence entrance requirements will change in the next two years, although these changes have not yet been implemented as the Directory goes to press


Medical technology in Switzerland is polyvalent and includes clinical chemistry, hematology (including immunohematology, hemostasis), immunology, histology, microbiology, cytology, parasitology, nuclear medicine and radiation precautions.

Graduates in Medical Laboratory Technology can continue their training in any of the medical laboratory disciplines under the auspices of the Swiss Professional Association of Graduate Medical Laboratory Technologists (Schweizerischer Fachverband der diplomierten medizinischen Laborantinnen und Laboranten.)

They also have the choice of pursuing their studies at a higher technical college or at the university.

6. CURRICULUM

In 1999 the Ministers of Health agreed on a new system of education for all health professions at the tertiary level, the Diploma level. As a consequence curricular requirements may change in the next two years, although, as noted above, these changes have not yet been implemented.

The current program lasts three years and consists of both theoretical and practical training. The Swiss Red Cross does not specify the exact number of hours for each subject in order to permit a certain amount of flexibility. A total of 1200 hours of theoretical study is considered a minimum, however, each school may judge the best way of attaining instructional goals.

In at least two of the compulsory subjects the education must be acquired in the form of clinical training in approved medical laboratories. For each of these subjects the training lasts a minimum of 6 months and a maximum of 12 months. Practical education in the other compulsory subjects is through practical exercises organized by the school. This training requires at least 150 hours for the

216 217

third subject and 60 hours for the fourth subject.

In addition, 30 hours of theoretical and practical education in radiation precautions are given at a specialized institute.

Grading and examinations

The school organizes the examinations for the diploma. These examinations are taken after having successfully completed at least 90% of both theoretical and practical training. The grading scale is from l to 6 with 4 the passing grade and grades l-3 unsatisfactory.

For the diploma grade the areas of instruction are grouped in the following manner:

1. Mathematics and physics 2. Chemistry 3. Anatomy, physiology, general pathology and physiopathology 4. Biology and biochemistry 5. Clinical chemistry 6. Hematology/Immunohematology/Hemostasis 7. Histology 8. Microbiology

Instead of one of the fields 5-8, one of the following may be chosen: Cytology, Parasitology, Nuclear medicine, and Immunology.

One diploma grade is given for the subjects numbered l-4. For each of the subjects numbered 5-8 two grades are given because of theoretical and practical examination. Thus, there are 12 grades listed on the diploma. To obtain the diploma, the average of the 12 grades must be at least 4.0. Only two of the theoretical and one of the practical grades can be below 4.0.

The school organizes the (theoretical and practical) education in radiation precautions and the examinations for the certificate. The certificate grade must be at least 4.0.

Required Subjects for the Medical Laboratory Technologist Program

Theoretical subjects at school Average hours

Chemistry 140Mathematics 61 Statistics/computing 28Physics/Radiation Precautions 119Biology 49Biochemistry 63 Anatomy 86Physiology/Pathophysiology 65Immunology 23Clinical Chemistry 134 Hematology/Hemostasis 133 Immunohematology/Transfusion science 44Histology/Pathology 78Microbiology/Parasitology 107Others 100

Practical courses at school Average hours

Clinical Chemistry 162Hematology/Hemostasis 180Immunohematology/Transfusion science 51Histology/(cytology) 93

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Microbiology/(parasitology) 125Others 20

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Berufsschule im GesundheitswesenLaborschule BaselHebelstr. 20CH-4031 BaselTel: 061 256 21 64

Vereinigte Laborschulen Engeried/Feusi BernAlpeneggstrasse 1CH - 3012 BernTel: 31 301 7177 website: http://www.feusi.ch e-mail: [email protected]

Schule für med. Laborantinnen (closed since 1990)) und Laboranten EngeriedBern

Ausbildungszentrum Insel(previously Schule für med-tech. Laborassistentinnen und -assistenten)Murtenstr, 10CH - 3010 BernTel: 31 632 26 20 Website: http://www.azi.ch

Schule für med. LaborantinnenKantonsspitalCH-9007 St. GallenTel: 71 494 11 11

�cole de laborantines médicauxChemin ThuryCH-1206 GeneveTel: 22 347 49 59 e-mail: [email protected]

�cole cantonale vaudoise de laborantines médicauxPlace du Tunnel 21CH-1005 LausanneTel: 21 312 68 52

Scuola cantonale per laboristi medichePalazzo delle Scuole del CentroPiazza CastelloCH-6600 LocarnoTel: 91 751 58 71

Schule für med. Laborpersonal des Kantons LuzernKantonsspitalCH-6000 Luzern 16Tel: 41 25 36 36

�cole cantonale de laborantines médicaux

http://www.feusi.ch


http://www.azi.ch


218 219

9, rue de Gibraltar CH-2000 NeuchatelTel: 32 724 25 12

Ausbildungsstätte für medizinische Laborantinnen des Kantons ZürichAllg. BerufsschuleAusstellungsstr. 90CH - 8005 ZurichTel: 1 446 97 30

Schule für medizinische Laborantinnen und Laboranten (not listed 1999)Minerva ZurichGanztagesschule der AKADJungholzstr 43CH - 8050 Zurich


a. Accreditation -Through the Swiss Red Cross

b. Licensure and Certification - The diploma awarded after successful completion of the Medical Laboratory Technologist program is countersigned by the Swiss Red Cross and is recognized by the Swiss Federal Government as the principal qualification for practice of the profession of Graduate Medical Laboratory Technologist.

c. Professional associations -Schweizerischer Fachverband der diplom. med. Laborantinnen und Laboranten (lab med)Postgasse 17Postfach 686Ch-3000 Bern 8Tel: 031 311 26 56 e-mail: [email protected] http://www.labmed.ch


http://www.labmed.ch

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For professional reciprocity, see reciprocity section in each country entry.

By registration with the Swiss Red Cross the Diploma of Medical Laboratory Technologist is granted the equivalent value of a State Diploma in other countries.

The Swiss Red Cross under certain conditions also can register holders of diplomas and certificates obtained abroad.

Swiss Red CrossDepartment of Vocational EducationWerkstr. 10CH-3084 BernTel: 031 -960 75 75

For further information contact the Swiss Association directly at:

www.labmed.chor

[email protected]

http://www.labmed.ch


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TAIWAN


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12primary school lower sec. upper sec.

Bachelor of Science DegreeMedical College or 1 2 3 4 National Medical Technologist ExamSchool of MedicalTechnology ↑

or↑ Master of Science Degree

1 2 Medical Technology↑

Junior College 1 2 3 4 5 National Medical Technologist Exam


The educational system in Taiwan is highly centralized under the authority of the Ministry of Education. The Ministry is responsible for all educational policy, in both the public and private sectors. In addition to control over all curricula, degrees, and administration of all institutions of learning, this Ministry is officially responsible for research and improvement of Taiwanese medical education.

The term “school/academic year” refers to the period of time from August 1 of one year to July 31 of the following year. The school year is divided into two semesters; the first semester extends from August 31st to January 17th, and the second from February 1st through July 1st.

Medical laboratory science training in Taiwan is available at the undergraduate level in colleges and junior colleges, and at the graduate level in the University. After completion of upper-secondary school (12 years of schooling), students may enter one of the medical colleges and pursue a four-year program leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology. Students who have completed lower-secondary school (9 years of schooling) may enter one of the junior colleges. After a five-year program in the junior college, graduates do not receive a degree, but are eligible to take the same national examination for medical technologist as taken by Bachelor of Science graduates of medical colleges. Examinees who pass this national examination receive a Certificate of Medical Technology from the National Health Administration. This certificate is required for setting up a private laboratory or for getting a position in a medical laboratory.

It is possible for graduates of a five year junior college to continue their education by transfering into a four-year college. Each transfer is based on passing the Joint Entrance Examination for Universities and Colleges, which allows entrance as a freshman, or the College Transfer Examination, which allows entrance to the second level.


(1) Medical Technologist (M.T.) -- 5-years training in junior college following completion of lower-secondary school, or a total of 14 years of study.

(2) Medical Technologist (M.T.) -- 4-years of training in Medical College following completion of upper-secondary school, or a total of 16 years of study.

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(3) Master’s program -- 2-years of training in Graduate Institute following completion of B.S. degree study.


For Junior College: Admission is contingent upon success in the 5-year Joint Junior College Entrance Examination on completion of grade 9.

For Medical College: Admission is on the basis of candidate’s scores on the Joint 4-year College and University Entrance Examination on completion of grade 12.

For Master’s program: Admission is on the basis of candidate’s scores on the Graduate Institute Entrance Examination on completion of B.S. degree in Medical Technology.


Training of medical laboratorians in Taiwan is polyvalent and includes: (1) Clinical microscopy.(2) Clinical physiology (including cardiopulmonary function tests, EEG, sonography, e.t.c.).(3) Clinical chemistry (including drug monitoring).(4) Clinical microbiology (including bacteriology, virology, parasitology and usually mycology).(5) Hematology* (including blood banking).(6) Clinical serology and immunology*.(7) Histotechnology and Cytotechnology (in some Colleges).

* Blood banking is included in hematology, immunology or serology, or may be taught as a separate course. Medical laboratory technology programs include also some basic study of radioactive isotopes and radiologic technology. Computer science may also be included in some programs.

Holders of the license in medical technology may work in medical laboratories.

6. CURRICULUM

One credit hour is defined as a class period meeting one hour per week for 20 weeks. This period of time includes vacations. The actual length of the semester thus averages about 18 weeks. One semester hour of laboratory study generally consists of three (3) contact hours but may vary from two (2) to four (4) contact hours.

Five-year Junior CollegeThe curriculum may be divided into three categories:(a) Courses required by the Ministry of Education.(b) Courses required by the individual junior college, for example, introductory courses such as “Introduction to Public Health”.(c) Courses in the area of specialization.

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Sample medical technology curriculumChuntai Junior College, Taichung (l995):

Course Semester Credit Hours 1st semester 2nd semester Year IChinese (1) 4 4English (1) 4 4Geography of China 2 2Music 0.5 0.5Mathematics 3 3Biology 2 2Biology (Lab.) 1 1Chemistry 2 2Chemistry (Lab.) 1 1Physics 2 2Physics (Lab.) 1 1Introduction to Medicine 1 -- SUBTOTAL 23.5 22.5 Year IIChinese (2) 4 4English (2) 4 4Mathematics (2) 3 3Psychology 2 --Organic Chemistry 2 2Organic Chemistry (Lab.) 1 1Qualitative Analysis 2 --Qualitative Analysis (Lab.) 1 --Quantitative Analysis -- 2Quantitative Analysis (Lab.) -- 1Physiology and Anatomy 2 2Physiology and Anatomy (Lab.) 1 1Law and Rule of Medicine 1 --Introduction to Computer 2 --Japanese 2 2 SUBTOTAL 27 22 Course Semester Credit Hours 1st semester 2nd semester Year IIIChinese (3) 4 4English (3) 2 2Biochemistry 3 3Biochemistry (Lab.) 1 1Pathology 2 --Parasitology 2 --Parasitology (Lab.) 1 --Microbiology -- 2Biostatistics -- 2Sectioning Techniques of Pathology -- 1Sectioning Techniques of Pathology (Lab) -- 1Japanese 2 2Microbiology (Lab) -- 1Histology -- 2

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SUBTOTAL 17 21 Year IVTheory of Dr. Sun 2 2English (4) 2 2Microbiology 2 --Microbiology (Lab.) 1 --Clinical Microscopy -- 2Clinical Microscopy (Lab.) -- 1Genetics -- 2Clinical Hematology (Lab.) 2 2Clinical Physiology 1 --Clinical Physiology (Lab.) 1 --Clinical Chemistry 2 2Clinical Chemistry (Lab.) 2 2Clinical Bacteriology 3 --Clinical Bacteriology (Lab.) -- 3Clinical Serology -- 2Clinical Serology (Lab.) -- 2Seminar of Medical Technology 1 --Blood Banking 2 --Immunology -- 2 SUBTOTAL 21 24 Course Semester Credit Hours 1st semester 2nd semester Year VModern History of China 2Public Health 2Instrument Analysis (Exp.) 2Quality Assurance 2Clinical Virology 2Introduction to Molecular Biology 2Special Topics in Medical Technology 2Clinical Experience -- 12 SUBTOTAL 14 12 TOTAL 204

Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Technology

Students enter the School of Medical Technology at one of Taiwan’s nine medical colleges for a four-year program. Until 1982, students had to complete 150 credits, or semester-hours, of required courses; this has now dropped to around 127 credits. Courses are offered at the medical college campus for the first three years (freshman, sophomore, junior). A clinical internship takes place in the fourth year (senior year) at an affiliated hospital. Areas of study include clinical microscopy, clinical physiology, clinical biochemistry, clinical microbiology, clinical serology and immunology, clinical hematology, research methods in medical technology, and advanced elective courses.

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Sample medical technology curriculum:Chung Shan Medical & Dental College, Taichung, 1993

First Year / Freshman Semester Hours Chinese 8English 8The Thoughts of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen 4General History of China 4General Chemistry & Laboratory 4General Biology & Laboratory 5Calculus 4General Physics & Laboratory 3Organic Chemistry & Laboratory 6Anatomy & Laboratory 3Introduction to computer 2Introduction to Medical Technology 1 SUBTOTAL 52 Second Year / Sophomore Semester Hours Psychology 2Modern History of China 2Constitution 2Analytical Chemistry & Laboratory 4Physiology & Laboratory 4Biostatistics 2Pharmaceutics 2Radiotechnology 2Histology 2Parasitology & laboratory 2Public Health 2 SUBTOTAL 26 Third Year / Junior Semester Hours Introduction to Pathology 2Microbiology & Laboratory 6Biochemistry & Laboratory 7Clinical Hematology 5Clinical Microscopy 3Clinical Chemistry 3Clinical Serology & Immunology 2Clinical Physiology 1Immunology 2Introduction to Internal Medicine 2 SUBTOTAL 33 Fourth Year / Senior, Internship Semester Hours Clinical Microscopy Practice 2Clinical Physiology Practice 1Clinical Hematology Practice 2Clinical Chemistry Practice 4Clinical Microbiology Practice 4Clinical Serology, Immunology Practice 2Blood Banking Practice 2 SUBTOTAL 16 TOTAL *127 *The total number of semester credit hours in both the junior and bachelor of science programs

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used to be higher, but were reduced by educational policy in 1982.

ExaminationsThroughout both the college and junior college programs, students are given examinations which account for a large percentage of their grade in each course. These include, ordinary examinations at the discretion of the teacher, mid-term and final examinations.

After completion of the four-year college or five-year junior college program, students are eligible to sit for the National Licensing Examination in Medical Technology offered by the Examination Yuan, #1 Shih-Yuan Rd., Taipei, Taiwan, one of the five branches of the Taiwanese government. Subjects covered in this examination are:

(a) Clinical chemistry. (d) Clinical serology & immunology(b) Clinical hematology. (e) Clinical microscopy & clinical physiology.(c) Microbiology & clinical microbiology.GradingColleges and junior colleges in Taiwan use both percentage grades and their letter equivalents which are as follows:

80 to 100% = A 70 to 79% = B 60 to 69% = C (60% is the lowest passing grade) 50 to 60% = make-up examination allowedCourses with grades below 50% must be repeated.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

A. Graduate School (Master’s programs):1. Graduate Institute of Medical Technology (6/91, 6/95) College of Medicine, National Taiwan University No. 1, Chang-Te Street Taipei, Taiwan

B. Four year programs (B.S. degree):1. School of Medical Technology (6/86, 6/91, 6/95) National Yang-Ming Medical College 155, Li-Nung Street, Section 2 Taipei, Taiwan

2. School of Medical Technology (6/86, 6/91, 6/95) Taipei Medical College 100, Wu-Shing Street Taipei, Taiwan

3. School of Medical Technology (6/86, 6/91, 6/95) Kaohsiung Medical College 100, Shih Chuan 1st Street Kaohsiung, Taiwan

4. School of Medical Technology (6/86, 6/91, 6/95) China Medical College 91, Sheh Shih Road Taichung, Taiwan

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5. School of Medical Technology (6/86, 6/91, 6/95) Chungshan Medical College 113, Ta Ching Street Section 2 Taichung, Taiwan

6. School of Medical Technology (6/86, 6/91, 6/95) College of Medicine National Taiwan University No.1, Chang-Te street, Taipei Taiwan 10016, R.O.C.

7. School of Medical Technology (6/91, 6/95) College of Medicine National Cheng-Kung University 138, Sheng-Li Road, Tainan Taiwan, R.O.C

8. School of Medical Technology (6/91, 6/95) Chang-Gung Medical College 259, Wen-Hwa I Road, Kweshan, Taoyuan Hsien Taiwan, R.O.C.

9. School of Medical Technology (6/91, 6/95) Tzu-Chi College of Medicine 8, Hsin-Sheng South Rd. Hualien, Taiwan ROC

C. Five-year programs:1. Chunghwa Jr. College of Medical Technology (6/86, 6/91, 6/95) Jente, Tainan County Taiwan

2. Yuanpei Jr. College of Medical Technology - 6- year program (6/86, 6/91, 6/95) Hsiangshanku, Hsinch County Taiwan

3. Chuntai Jr. College of Medical Technology (6/86, 6/91, 6/95) Takun, Taichung Taiwan

4. Fuying Junior College of Medical Technology (6/91, 6/95) and Nurse Kaohsiung Hsieh, Taiwan, R.O.C.

*The designation of 6/86, 6/91, and 6/95 indicates the existence of programs at these said dates.


(a) Accreditation of programs - Ministry of Education.

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(b) Licensure - Requirements for the license are graduation from a program in medical technology and pass in the National Licensing Examination.

(c) Certification and registration - Certification upon passing the above examination, by Department of Health, Executive Yuan. Licensed medical technologists are registered with the local Bureau of Health.

(d) Professional Associations -

Chinese Society of Medical Technologists No. 35, Lane 618, Wan-Ta Rd. Taipei, Taiwan, ROC

There are 19 county or city associations of medical technologists such as the Taipei Society for Medical Technologists.

The Association of Laboratory Medicine No. 1 Chung - Te Street Taipei, Taiwan


Graduates from comparable programs at a foreign university recognized by Ministry of Education, will be allowed to sit for the licensure examinations.

For academic equivalencies in the U.S, see Kennedy, Republic of China, World Education Series, Washington, D.C.: AACRAO, 1977.

For professional reciprocity, see reciprocity section for each individual country entry in this directory.


Dept. of Medical TechnologyChung Shan Medical College, Taichung, Taiwan

orSchool of Medical Technology

College of Medicine, National Taiwan UniversityNo. 1, Chang-Te Street, Taipei 10016, Taiwan

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THAILAND1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12primary secondary upper

secondary 1 2 3 4 B.Sc. Medical Technology

1 2 Certificate Med. Lab. Technician


Training in Medical Laboratory Technology began in Thailand in 1956 with the establishment of a School of Medical Laboratory Technology. The School, which provided a 3-year program following completion of upper secondary school, had two objectives: to produce Medical Laboratory personnel at the diploma level and to provide laboratory services for patients in Siriraj and Chulalongkorn hospitals. By 1972 this School had become the Faculty of Medical Technology at Mahidol University and the diploma program had been upgraded to the Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology.

In the course of the next twenty-five years, as demand grew for trained Medical Laboratory personnel, other universities added degree programs until, as of 1997, six public universities and two private provide the B.Sc. Medical Technology. Also available through the College of Health Laboratory and Technology Institute of Phraboromchanok, Ministry of Public Health, Yodse, Bangkok, is a Certificate as a Medical Laboratory Technician.


There are three levels of training for the Medical Laboratory Science profession:

1) Medical Laboratory Technician Certificate MLT programs This 2-year program leading to the National Certificate Medical Laboratory Technician without licensing qualifies students as Medical Laboratory Technicians. They may work as Medical Laboratory Technicians, Level II under supervision of a Medical Technologist.

2) Medical Laboratory Technologist- B.Sc. Medical Technology.The curriculum for the Medical Laboratory Technology degree programs are similar for all universities. The programs last 4 years. Usually the first two years consist of basic sciences--Calculus, Statistics, English, General Studies, Humanities, Sociology and free electives. The last two years are largely devoted to professional subjects and clinical laboratory practice. Recipients of the degree are automatically licensed and may work for a government service starting as Medical Technologists Level III.


1) Certificate Medical Laboratory Technician programs Entrance to this 2-year program, leading to the Certificate MLT without licensing, is 9 years primary/secondary education. Applicants must also pass an entrance - examination.

2) B.Sc. Medical Technology programs.After completing the upper secondary school (12th grade), all students who wish to study in state-run universities must sit for a national entrance examination offered annually in May by the Ministry of University Affairs. The examination subjects include: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, English, Sociology and Thai. Students who choose the Medical Technology program and successfully pass the examination are then chosen by rank and must undergo an interview and physical examination. Students who are severely color-blind are excluded. Each university provides a

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limited number of seats for the Medical Technology program.


1) Certificate Medical Laboratory Technician The Certificate MLT program is polyvalent but some disciplines may be emphasized. For example, Blood Banking, Cytology and Toxicology at the end of the second year. All Medical Laboratory Technicians must work for a government hospital laboratory for at least four years.

2) B.Sc. Medical TechnologyThe Bachelor of Science Medical Laboratory Technology program is polyvalent covering four major disciplines: Clinical Chemistry; Hematology, Immuno-hematology (Blood Banking); and Microbiology. B.Sc. Med. Tech recipients may seek jobs in government or private areas and are eligible to study for the Master of Science or further studies in their field. They can be promoted to the head of a clinical laboratory department. Usually this post is permanent.

6. CURRICULUM.

Bachelor of Science Medical Technology ProgramChulalongkorn University 1996

General Studies (18 credits) 3 credits from each of the following groups: Sociology Humanities Science and Mathematics

6 Credits for Language Studies: CreditsFoundation English I 3 Foundation Eng II 3

Basic Sciences (51 credits)Stat. Bio Sciences 3Calculus I 4Gen. Chem I & II 6 (3 credits/course)Chem. Lab. 1Org. Chem. Lab 1Phys. Chem. 2Org. Chem I & II 4 (2 credits/course)Gen. Bio. 3Gen. Bio. Lab. 1Gen. Physics I & II 6 (3 credits/course) Gen. Phys. Lab. I & II 2 (1 credit/course)Bio-Chem. Med. Sci. 3Bio-Chem. Lab, Med. Sci. 1Gen. Microbio. 2Anatomy 2Anatomy Lab. 1Pro-law & Ethics 2Basic Pathology 2Physiology 2Comp. Allied Health Sci.. 2Comp. Lab. 1

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Professional Studies (67 credits)Med. Bact I, II, 8 (4 credits/course)Med. Bact. III 2Immunology 4Med. Viro. Myco. 2Parasitology I 2Gastric Entomology 3Prac. Parasitology 1Community Med. I 1Bas. Admin. Clin. Lab. 2Clin. Lab. Prac. I & II 4(2 credits /course)Clin. Correla I & II 2 (1 credit/course) Research Mtd Md. Sci. 1Lab Invest. Toxicology 1Health Sci. Res. 2Med. Tech. Sem. 1Fund. Prac. Clin. Chem. 2Anal. Tech. Instr. CC 2Clin. Chem I, II, 4 (2 credits/course)Clin. Chem Lab I, II 4 (2 credits/course)Fund. Prac. Hematology. 2Clin. Hematology. 2Clin. Hematology Lab. 1Blood Coagulation 1Blood Coagulation Lab. 1Anal. Body Fluids 1Anal. Body Fluids Lab. 1Adv. Clinical Hematology. 2Adv. Clinical Hematology Lab. 1Immunohematology Lab. I & II 2 (1 credit/coourse)Immunohematology Lab.I & II 2 (1 credit/coourse)Nutr. Analysis 1Electro. Clin. Lab. 2Guided Electives 6 credits6 credits from the following:Intro. Envir. Toxicology 1Prob. Anal. CC Lab. 1Organization Mgt. Clin. Lab. 2Molec. Bio. Hematology. 1Cellular Biochemistry 1Hematology Abn AIDS 1Auto. Anal. Hemato. 1Theory & Case Diagnostics 2Molecular Biology. 1Nutrition/Health 2Blood Components 2Chemometrics 3

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Certificate of Medical Laboratory Technician

Department of Medical Sciences Ministry of Public Health693 Bumrungmuang Road, YodseBangkok 10100, ThailandDepartment of Clinical PathologyRamathibhodi HospitalMahidol UniversityRama VI Road, Bangkok 10400

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B.Sc. Medical Technology Faculty of Medical TechnologyChiang Mai UniversityMuang DistrictChiang Mai 50200

Faculty of Allied Health SciencesChulalongkorn University,Phaya Thai Rd., Bangkok 10330

Faculty of Medical TechnologyHuachiew Chalermprakiet University18/18 Bangna-Trad Road, Km 18Bangplee, Samutprakarn 10540

Faculty of Associated Medical ScienceKhon Kaen UniversityMuang DistrictKhon Kaen 40002

Faculty of Medical TechnologyMahidol UniversityBangkok-noi, Bangkok 10700 Faculty of Allied Health SciencesNaresuan UniversityPitsanulok 65000

Faculty of Medical TechnologyRangsit UniversityMuang Ake Patumthani 12000

Faculty of Allied Health SciencesThammasat University Rangsit CampusKlongluang, Patumthani 12121


a) Registration and Licensing Medical Technology in Thailand comes under the Art of Healing Act. It is compulsory for Medical Technologists to register at the Division of Medical Registration, Ministry of Public Health, for a license to practice. All graduates from public universities obtain a life-long license automatically upon registration. B.Sc. Med. Tech. candidates from private universities (Rangsit, Huachiew Chalermprakiet) must apply for licenses to the Division of Medical Registration, Ministry of Public Health, who will run examination for license with the cooperation of the Association of Medical Technologists of Thailand.

b) Professional Association: Association of Medical Technologists of Thailand c/o Faculty of Science and Technology Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus Pathumthani 12121 Thailand Tel: 516 0020 Ext.1305

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Graduates of private or foreign universities must sit for an examination held twice a year by the Division of Medical Registration, Ministry of Public Health The examination includes professional subjects, both theory and practice, concepts and application of the Art of Healing Act. Those who successfully pass the examination obtain a life-long license.


Division of Laboratory Quality StandardsDepartment of Medical Sciences, Ministry of Public Health

693 Bumrungmuang Road, YodseBangkok 10400, Thailand

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TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO


1987 - 1993:GCE ‘O’ Level/CXC-General Proficiency**

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11primary and secondary school

Certificate inCollege of Allied 1 2 Medical Laboratory TechnologyHealth Sciences

Caribbean Association of Diploma inMedical Technologists 1* 2* Medical Laboratory Technology

specialities Fellowship in

1* 2* 3* 4* the specialities

From 1993:GCE ‘O’ Level/CXC-General Proficiency**

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11primary and secondary school

Associate Degree in ScienceCollege of 1 2 3* Medical Laboratory TechnologyHealth Sciences

Fellowship inCaribbean Association of 1* 2* 3* 4* the specialitiesMedical Technologists

Note:* = part-time independent study while working in a clinical laboratory.** = General Certificate of Education ‘Ordinary’ Level/ Caribbean Examinations Council, General Proficiency Level.


Before 1993, medical laboratory education in Trinidad and Tobago took place at the post-secondary level in the College of Allied Health Sciences (which is part of the National Institute of Higher Education Research, Science and Technology = NIHERST), in a 2-year, full-time program, which led to the Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate.

Between 1990 and 1991, the College of Health Sciences and the National Institute of Higher Education, conducted a review of the Medical Laboratory Technology Program with a view to implementing changes if necessary. As a result of this exercise, a decision was taken to change the program award from a Diploma to an Associate Degree in Science at the College of Health Sciences. Effective November 1994 all technicians desiring membership in the Caribbean Association of

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Medical Technologists must hold the Associate in Science degree.

The Associate Degree in Science in Medical Technology is awarded to students who have completed:(i) a minimum of sixty-five (65) to sixty-eight (68) credits at the College of Health Sciences with a 2.0 GPA or C average;(ii) thirty-one (31) credits of core Medical Laboratory Technology courses with an overall 2.5 GPA or C+ average, with no grade lower than C;(iii) all Medical Laboratory elective courses with an overall 2.0 GPA or C; and(iv) a program of laboratory internship at an approved facility comprising a minimum of 1000 hours scheduled over one academic period.This program will be reviewed annually and changes made as recommended.

The profession was previously closely integrated with programs in the other Caribbean countries. Thus, students from Trinidad also studied at the College of Arts and Sciences in Jamaica or at one of the other existing Caribbean programs.

Prior to 1993, holders of the Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate from the College of Allied Health Sciences could continue their professional development through the examinations of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists, which offered two levels of programs: the Diploma Program (designated the Associate Degree since 1993) and the Fellowship Program.

Graduates who wish to continue their education at the degree level either go to the United Kingdom or the United States. The University of the West Indies does not give recognition for any of the coursework completed for the Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate.


Prior to 1993:There were three levels of education available to laboratorians in Trinidad and Tobago prior to 1993:

(1) Medical Laboratory Certificate, a 2-year, full-time program offered at the then College of Allied Health Sciences at Port-of-Spain, to secondary school graduates. This program trained the majority of laboratory personnel in the country.

(2) The Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology in a specialization was achieved through the examinations of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists, following two years of work experience in a recognized laboratory and membership in the Association for at least one year. Specializations were offered in: Clinical Chemistry, Bacteriology and Parasitology, Immunology and Immunohematology, Hematology, Histology and Cytology, Virology and Mycology.

(3) Fellowship in another specialization was achieved after six years of service in a recognized laboratory, following receipt of the Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate, or after four years of work experience in a recognized laboratory, following receipt of the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology.

Since 1993:There are two levels of education now available:

(1) The Associate in Science Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology which is a two-year full-time program at the College of Health Sciences followed by a year of Medical Laboratory Internship Program or a minimum of 31⁄2 years part-time academic study at the college plus an additional 12-18 month Medical Laboratory Technology Internship.

(2) Fellowship with training in another specialization is achieved after six years of service in a recognized laboratory following receipt of the Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate. Fellowship with training in a specialization is also achieved after four years of work experience in a recognized laboratory following receipt of the Associate in Science Degree.

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Prior to 1993:(1) For applicants to the Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate Program: (a) Five passes required either through the examinations of the General Certificate of Education (GCE) - Ordinary Level, or the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) - Proficiency Level. The passes had to be in a minimum of five subjects, including English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology and one other subject. (b) Applicants had to be between 17 and 35 years; currently applicants must be a minimum of 18 years of age. (c) Applicants had to succeed in an interview conducted by members of the relevant government agency.

(2) For applicants to the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology(Specialization) Examinations: (a) Success in the Certificate Examination at a Medical Laboratory Technology Program in the Caribbean region or equivalent, AND (b) Completion of at least two years of post-Certificate training in the speciality of choice in a general medical laboratory, AND (c) Membership in the Caribbean Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists for at least one year prior to the date of examination.

(3) For applicants to the Fellowship: (a) Success in the Diploma Program (or Associate in Science Program since 1993) of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists, or equivalent, AND (b) Completion of at least four years of post-Certificate experience and training in another speciality of choice in a recognized medical laboratory.

Since 1993:(1) For applicants to the Associate in Science Program in Medical Laboratory Technology: (a) five (5) O-level subjects at CXC (Grades 1 or 2) or GCE (A,B, or C), including English, Mathematics, Chemistry, and Biology, OR (b) any combination of experience and qualifications deemed equivalent by NIHERST.

(2) For applicants to the Fellowship: (a) Success in the Diploma Program (or Associate in Science Program; since 1993) of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists, or equivalent, AND (b) Completion of at least four years of post-Certificate experience and training in another speciality of choice in a recognized medical laboratory.


The Medical Laboratory Technology Program at the College of Health Sciences is polyvalent and includes Clinical Biochemistry, Hematology, Immunohematology, Microbiology (Bacteriology, Mycology, Virology and Parasitology) and Histology.

Work experience and independent study for the examinations of the Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists allow practicing medical laboratorians in Trinidad and Tobago to obtain the Associate Degree (the Diploma, prior to 1993), and the Fellowship of the Association, which offer specializations in one of the following areas:

Clinical Chemistry HematologyImmunology and Immunohematology Bacteriology and ParasitologyHistology and Cytology Virology and Mycology

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6. CURRICULUM

Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate ProgramCollege of Allied Health Sciences (1986)

The Medical Laboratory Technology Certificate Program consists of two years of study, divided into 3 trimesters per year.

Trimester I

Code Subject Hours/Week Total Weeks Theory Practice BIO 100 Human Anatomy and Physiology 2 3 15CHEM 100 General Chemistry 2 3 15MLT 100 Lab. Orientation 2 -- 15MLT 101 Intro. to Lab. Instrumentation 2 -- 15MLT 204 Basic Diagnostic Bacteriology 4 6 15MLT 210 Clinical Parasitology 3 3 15MLT 202 Lab. Maths and Quality Control 1 -- 15MLT 210 Med. Lab. Practice -- 8 15

Code Subject Hours/Week Total Weeks Theory Practice

Trimester IIMLT 205 Clinical Biochemistry 3 4 15MLT 206 Hematology 3 6 15MLT 207 Intro. to Immunology 2 2 7MLT 208 Immunohematology 2 4 8MLT216 Med. Lab. Practice -- 8 15

Trimester IIIMLT 209 Serology 2 4 15PSYCH 100 Social Psychology 1 -- 15MLT 205 Clinical Biochemistry 3 4 15MLT 215 Med. Lab. Practice -- 24 15

Trimester IV MLT 211 Histology 2 3 15MLT 103 Intro. to Lab. Management 1 -- 15MLT 225 Med. Lab. Practice -- 35 15

Trimester V MLT 213 Intro. to Virology 2 -- 7MLT 214 Intro. to Mycology 2 2 8MLT 226 Med. Lab. Practice -- 34 15

Trimester VI MLT 301 Seminar 2 -- 15MLT 225 Med. Lab. Practice -- 38 15

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Diploma (until 1993) and FellowshipCaribbean Association of Medical Technologists

Guidelines were set by the Association for the content to be tested in each speciality.

Associate in Science DegreeMedical Laboratory Technology Program (1995-96)

College of Health Sciences

The Medical Laboratory Technology Program comprises two years full-time academic study and one year full-time internship which is conducted at an approved laboratory. The part-time Medical Laboratory Program is conducted over a three year period, plus a full-time year for the internship.

TYPICAL SEMESTER SCHEDULES FOR FULL-TIME STUDENTS

Year 1Semester 1 Semester 2Subject Credits Subject CreditsGeneral Education Course 3 BIO 114 Human Anatomy & Physiology 3General Education Course 3 BIO 226 Microbiology 5General Education Course 3 General Education Course 3MLT 101 Medical Terminology 1 General Education Course 3BIO 113 Human Anat. & Physio. 3 MLT 229 Clinical Chemistry 3CHM 241 Sur. Org. & Biochem. 4 -- Total 17 Total 17

Summer SessionSubject CreditsBIO 232 Genetics 3BIO 242 Cell Biology 3 Total 6

Year 2Semester 3 Semester 4Subject Credits Subject CreditsMLT 228 Histology 4 MLT 230 Hematology 4MLT 227 Immunology-Serology 3 General Education Course 3MLT 102 Laboratory Safety 2 COM 222 Critical Thinking 3General Education Course 3 General Education Course 3General Education Course 3 MTH 201 Statistical Survey 3 Total 15 Total 16

Students are required to obtain a minimum grade of C+ in all MLT core courses and an overall program grade of C, to be accepted into the 1000-hour internship program. The Associate Degree is awarded upon successful completion of the internship program.

Year 3MLT 600 courses in the Internship Program of 1000 hours (non-credit). This Internship is equivalent to 33 credits:

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Medical Laboratory Technology Internship Courses (1000 hours)Subject HoursMLT 601 Histopathology Internship 60MLT 602 Immunology-Serology Internship 80MLT 603 Biochemistry Internship 200MLT 604 Bacteriology Internship 220MLT 605 Parasitology Internship 80MLT 606 Virology Internship * 20MLT 607 Hematology Internship 340 * Where training in Virology is not available, students may complete these hours in Parasitology or in Bacteriology. The duration of the Internship program is usually 12 - 18 months.

GRADING SCHEME

Letter Grade Numerical Equivalent Notation Quality Points A 90-100 Excellent 4.0 B+ 85-89 Very Good 3.5 B 80-84 Good 3.0 C+ 75-79 Above Average 2.5 C 70-74 Average 2.0 D+ 65-69 Below Average 1.5 D 60-64 Minimum Passing 1.0 F Below 60 Failing 0.0

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

College of Health SciencesNational Institute of Higher Education (NIHERST) Tel: 645-2658Building 15, Eric Williams Medical Complex Fax: 645-2659Mt. Hope, Trinidad.

Caribbean Association of Medical TechnologistsDepartment of Pathology, University HospitalUniversity of the West IndiesMona, Kingston 7, Jamaica.


(a) Accreditation - The College of Allied Health Sciences is government-owned, and is under the aegis of the National Institute of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (NIHERST), which is the national body responsible for professional recognition and institute accreditation:

NIHERST 8 Serpentine Road, St. Clair, Trinidad

(b) Certification - The College of Health Sciences is the sole certifying body.

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(c) Licensure - The Professions Supplementary to Medicine Act (1983) includes Medical Laboratory Technologists. Although the Act has been proclaimed, the various instruments are not yet in place.

(d) Professional Association - The professional association, the Medical Laboratory Technologist Association of Trinidad and Tobago (before 1979 known as the Society of Medical Laboratory Technologists), is affiliated with the: Caribbean Association of Medical Technologists Department of Pathology, University Hospital University of the West Indies, Mona, Kingston 7, Jamaica.


Foreign graduates are evaluated for equivalency of their training by the National Institute of Higher Education, Port of Spain, Trinidad, a government agency. The Certificate programs in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Guyana have been considered equivalent, and these graduates are thus admitted to further their education on an equal basis.


Director,College of Health Sciences

National Institute of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (NIHERST)Building 42

Eric Williams Medical Complex, Mt. Hope, Trinidad

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TUNISIA


Pre-1993

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11Elementary School Secondary School

State Laboratory Technician Diploma/Secondary-level 1* 2* Diplôme d’Etat de Laborantin

(National Examination = ‘Concours’)

Baccalauréat12 13 (secondary-school leaving diploma)

Diploma of Higher TechnicianUniversity 1 2 3* of Public Health in Biology/

Diplôme de Technicien Supérieurde la Santé Publique en Biologie

Post-1993Baccalauréat

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 (secondary-school leaving diploma)

Elementary School Sec. School

Diploma of Higher TechnicianUniversity 1* 2* 3* of Public Health/

Diplôme de Technicien Supérieurde la Santé Publique

* = Practical training as Internships or “Stages” at a hospital laboratory.


Until 1985 there were two levels of medical laboratory science training in Tunisia:(1) The basic level of training was offered at a Health Professional School (“Ecole Professionnelle”) and took place at the secondary education level after a total of 11 years of schooling. The duration of this basic training was two years, including 11 months of practical internships or “stages” in a hospital laboratory. After completion of this training, the student sat for a national examination (‘concours’), supervised by the Ministry of Health, in order to obtain the “Diplôme d’Etat de Laborantin” (State Laboratory Technician Diploma).2) The second level, initiated in 1974, required 13 years of schooling and the Baccalauréat (secondary school leaving diploma). Students could be admitted to the Faculty of Medicine at the university level for a 3-year program leading to the Diplôme de Technicien Supérieur de la Santé Publique en Biologie (Diploma of Higher Technician of Public Health in Biology), which included 8 months of practical internship during the third year.

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In 1985 there was a change of the university-level program toward a focus on health technology. Four years later, in 1989, three new schools with paramedical programs were established (The Higher Technical Schools of Health at Tunis, Monastir and Sfax).

In 1993, as a result of on-going reforms in health education, there was only one level of training for laboratorians, which was given at the university level. Only students having a total of 13 years of schooling and the secondary-school leaving diploma (the Baccalauréat) are now eligible to enter a program of Medical Laboratory Science at the University (see: Section 7. List of Programs). Acceptance to these programs depends on the number of available openings as set by the Ministry of Higher Education (Ministère de lÈnseignement Supérieur). This program, which lasts 3 years, includes 1480 hours (74 weeks over 3 years) of practical internships or “stages” in a hospital laboratory and leads to the Diplôme de Technicien Supérieur de la Santé Publique (Diploma of Higher Technician of Public Health). Training in Medical Laboratory Science takes place in the French language. The academic year runs from September to July (10 months; three trimesters).


Prior to 1993

Before 1993 there were two levels of study:

1) Laboratory Technician The basic training to become a “Laborantin” or Laboratory Technician required 2 years in a full-time program at the secondary-school level (following 11 years of elementary/secondary education). The program included theoretical study, practical work in the school’s laboratories, as well as 3 months of practice in a hospital laboratory during the second semester of the first year, and 8 months of hospital practice during the second year.

2) Diploma of Higher Technician Also available was a 3-year program at the University, leading to the Diploma of Higher Technician of Public Health in Biology, which required the Baccalauréat for admission.

Since 1993

There is only one level of education in Medical Laboratory Science. The training for the title “Technicien Supérieur” or Higher Technician lasts 3 years, full-time, and is given at the university level (after 13 years of total elementary/secondary education). The program includes theoretical instruction and a total of 1480 hours [120 hours (6 weeks) in the first year; 640 hours (32 weeks) in the second year; 720 hours (36 weeks) in the third year] of practical work in laboratories and hospital practice (“stage”/internship).


Prior to 1993

1) Laboratory Technician Diploma program Admission to the Laboratory Technician Diploma program required successful completion of 11 years of primary/

secondary schooling and successful completion of an entrance examination.

2) Diploma of Higher Technician of Health Admission to the Diploma of Higher Technician of Health required 13 years of primary/secondary schooling.

Since 1993

Diploma of Higher Technician programAdmission to the Diploma of Higher Technician program demands successful completion of the science sections of the

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Baccalauréat examination.


Medical laboratory science education is polyvalent. The training includes Bacteriology, Biochemistry (Clinical Chemistry), Hematology, Immunology, Parasitology, and Toxicology.

6. CURRICULUM

Pre-19932-Year Diplôme d’Etat de Laborantin

(State Laboratory Technician Diploma)

YEAR I Theory Hours Laboratory Hours Total Hours Physics 35 40 75 Chemistry General, Organic, Mineral , Biological 105 -- 105 Anatomy & Physiology 40 -- 40 Hygiene & Epidemiology 30 -- 30 Hospital Admin. 20 20General Laboratory -- 50 50 Analytical Chemistry -- 100 100 Qualitative Urinalysis -- 20 20 Internships (‘stages’) beginning in 2nd semesterBiochemistry & Bacteriology 3 months

YEAR II Theory Hours Laboratory Hours Total Hours Biochemistry 25 80 105 Bacteriology 50 80 130 Sero-Immunology 30 30 60 Hematology 30 50 80 Parasitology 30 30 60 Internships (‘stages’)Biochemistry & Bacteriology ] Hematology/Sero-Immunology ] 8 months Parasitology ]

3-Year Diplôme de Technicien Supérieur de la Santé Publique en Biologie(Diploma of Higher Technician of Public Health in Biology)

YEAR I Theory Hours Laboratory Hours Total Hours Statistical Mathematics 50 -- 50 Animal Biology 50 45 95 Plant Biology 25 20 45 General Chemistry 75 98 173 Physics 50 50 100

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YEAR II Theory Hours Laboratory Hours Total Hours Biochemistry 75 55 130 Parasitology 25 24 99 Hematology 25 30 55 Physiology 40 -- 40 Bacteriology 50 60 110 General Immunology 25 -- 25 Analytical Chemistry 50 98 148 Biophysics 25 25 50 YEAR III Theory Hours Laboratory Hours Total Hours Internship Biochemistry 50 -- 50 2 months Bacteriology 50 90 140 2 months Hematology 15 30 45 2 months Pharmacology 30 -- 30 -- Toxicology 35 12 47 -- Parasitology -- -- -- 2 months

Since 19933-Year Diplôme de Technicien Supérieur de la Santé Publique

(Diploma of Higher Technician of Public Health)YEAR I Theory Hrs Lab. Hrs Practical Total HrsStatistics & Computers 40 20 20 80 Physics & Instrumentation 50 15 35 100 Biophysics 30 -- 10 40 Gen. Chem. (Org./Inorg.) 50 -- -- 50 Analytical Chem. 30 -- 30 60 Anat., Histology & Physiology 50 10 -- 60 Cellular Biology & Genetics 40 10 10 60 Structural Biochemistry 30 -- 20 50 Gen. Microbiology 20 -- 20 40 Basic First Aid (Diploma) 12 -- 36 48 Professional Legislative Aspects 50 -- 50 100 Beginning Internship (20 hours/week x 6 weeks) 120

YEAR II Theory Hrs Lab. Hrs Practical Total HrsSystematic Microbiology 50 -- 40 90 Gen. & Metabolic Biochem. 70 30 10 110 Gen. Hematology 30 -- 30 60 Immunology 30 10 -- 40 Parasitology 40 -- 30 70 Scientific English 50 -- -- 50 Internship (20 hours/week x 32 weeks) (640) Parasitology 160 Hematology 160 Bacteriology 160

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Immunology 160

YEAR III* Theory Hrs Lab. Hr. Practical Total Hrs.Microbiologic Examination of Pathologic Organisms 30 -- 50 80 Clinical Biochemistry 80 -- 40 20 Hematology 30 -- 30 60 Pharmacology 30 -- -- 30 Toxicology 30 -- 10 40 Biological variables of man 24 -- -- 24 Internship (20 hours/week x 36 weeks) (720) Beginning research & thesis 160 Biochemistry 320 Bacteriology 80 Hematology 80 Parasitology 80 * A thesis is required at the end of the program.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Université de TunisEcole Supérieure des Sciences et Techniques de la Santé de Tunis1007 JabbariB.P. 176 Bab Souika 1006Tunis, Tunisia

Université du CentreEcole Supérieure des Sciences et Techniques de la Santé de MonastirAvenue Avicenne, 5010 - MonastirMonastir, Tunisia

Université du SudEcole Supérieure des Sciences et Techniques de la Santé de SfaxSiège de la Faculté de Médecine3029 - SfaxSfax, Tunisia


a. Accreditation - All programs are under the supervision of the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Higher Education.

b. Certification - n.a.

c. Licensure - There is a government register of qualified medical laboratory personnel.

d. Professional Associations - L’Association Tunisienne des Techniciens Biologistes (founded Jan. 31, 1989) B.P. No. 320 Le Belvedére - 1002

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Tunis, Tunisia.


A committee of the Ministry of Higher Education examines and determines the equivalency of academic qualifications of foreign students applying to practice in Tunisia.


Le Ministère de la Santé PubliqueLe Directeur de la Formation des Cadres

Tunis, Tunisia

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UGANDA


1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Uganda Certificate of Educationprimary secondary

12 13 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education/ Higher School Certificate

1 2 Certificate as Medical Laboratory Technician3 4 Diploma in Medical Lab. Technology

Note: Students may also take 2 years in-service training leading to a Certificate as a Laboratory Assistant (Level C as graded by WHO)


Primary education starts at 5-7 years of age and takes 7 years. Secondary education, leading to the Uganda Certificate of Education examinations takes 4 years with two more years required for the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education/ Higher School Certificate.

Plans for formal Medical Laboratory Science education in Uganda were initiated in 1959 in response to changing scientific and technological knowledge. In 1960 the Chief Secretary of the Colonial government authorized the Mulago Hospital to begin a program in the Mulago/Makerere Pathology Unit of the Hospital, which was recognized by the then Institute of Medical Laboratory Technology (I.M.L.T.) in the United Kingdom as a training and examination center for candidates in Medical Laboratory Technology in East and Central Africa. (I.M.L.T. is now the Institute of Medical Laboratory Science I.M.L.S.) In 1963 the first I.M.L.T. (U.K) certificate examination for East and Central Africa was held in Kampala, Uganda with 9 out of 12 candidates passing. (The only other I.M.L.T. examination center in Africa at this time was in Nigeria and was for West African candidates.) Successful candidates at the examination were awarded scholarships to the U.K. , where they pursued further studies, leading to an Associateship of the Institute (A.I.M.L.T.)

In 1965, following a change in the United Kingdom I.M.L.T examination system, the Council for Medical Education in East Africa (C.M.E.) decided that there should be two levels of laboratory workers from East African countries: 1) a highly trained Laboratory Technologist and 2) a Laboratory Assistant with lower entry level requirements to training programs and shorter training period. The decision of the C.M. E. went into effect in 1967.

In 1969 there was a change from the U.K. I.M.L.T. system to an equivalent East Africa (E.A.) examination system. Between 1971 and 1976 the training was in East Africa (Uganda, Tanzania & Kenya) and the qualification offered was the Diploma in MLT under the auspices of the Inter-University Committee for East Africa (Makerere, Nairobi, and Dar-es-Salaam Universities.) In 1977, following the collapse of the East African Community, the course for Ugandans came under the auspices of Makerere University.

Today there are three levels of Laboratory workers: 1) holders of the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, which is granted after 4 years of training and successful completion of a qualifying examination; 2) holders of the Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology, granted after 2 years of training and successful completion of a qualifying examination, and 3) Laboratory Assistants who have undergone a job-training program in recognized hospital laboratories under supervision of a Medical Laboratory Technologist, Level C as graded by the World Health Organization (WHO).


There are currently three levels of training for Medical Laboratory Science personnel:

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1) Laboratory Technologist:To qualify as a Laboratory Technologist a student must have earned the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, which requires four years of study.

2) Laboratory Technician:To qualify as a Laboratory Technician a student must have earned the Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology, which requires two years of study after the Uganda Certificate of Education.

3) Laboratory Assistant: To qualify as a Laboratory Assistant requires on the job training at level C as graded by the World Health

Organization. The course is run without interruption for a period of 2 years. As a guide it covers 3200 hours. About 1200 hours are spent on practical work, in-service training, under the supervision of a Medical Laboratory Technologist in recognized hospital laboratories. After successful completion a Certificate is awarded by the Public Service Commission.

4 ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

1) Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology:Admission to the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology program requires the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education or the Certificate as Medical Laboratory Technician.

2) Certificate as Medical Laboratory Technician: Admission to the certificate program requires completion of 11 years primary /secondary education leading to the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) .

3) Certificate as a Laboratory Assistant awarded by the Public Service Commission. Participation in this certificate program requires acceptance as an employee in a recognized hospital laboratory.


Education for the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology is polyvalent in the first two years and specialized in the last two. Subjects covered include Laboratory Science, Principles of Immunology, Microbiology, Parasitology, Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Clinical Chemistry, Histopathology, and Cytology.

Graduates are employed in medical or veterinary laboratories, research centers, teaching institutions and private medical institutions. The opportunity for promotion depends on where the candidate is employed. Generally the steps are Technologist to Senior, Principal and finally Chief Laboratory Technologist.

6. CURRICULUM

Makerere University is currently updating the Diploma curriculum in Medical Laboratory Technology.

4-Year Diploma Medical Laboratory Technology -1996Makerere University

Year 1- Subject Lecture Lab HoursAnatomy 53 20 73Physiology 42 14 56Instrumentation 41 10 51Primary Health Care 40 22 62Socio-Psychology 36 - 36First Aid 30 11 41Pathology 20 - 20Pharmacology 40 10 50Nursing 20 10 30Medical Ethics 13 - 13

Total Hrs 432

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Year 2-Medical Microbiology 30 40 70Public Health 30 20 50Parasitology 30 40 70Histopathology 20 60 80Hematology & Blood Transfusion

20 60 80

Clinical Chemistry 50 60 110Total 460

After the first two years the Candidate sits for the Certificate examination in Medical Laboratory Technology. After passing this examination he/she specializes for 2 years in one of five subjects:Years 3 and 4 Specialization in:Medical Microbiology & 60 120 180 Public HealthParasitology 40 52 92Hematology & Blood

Transfusion60 120 180

Histopathology 60 120 180Clinical Chemistry 60 120 180

Total Hrs. 812

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology/Certificate as Medical Laboratory TechnicianMulago HospitalP.O. Box 7051Kampala UgandaFax: 256 41 532591

Makerere University Medical SchoolP.O. Box 7062 Kampala, Uganda

Mulago Hospital is the training hospital for Makerere University and trains for the Diploma and Certificate.

National Diploma Medical Laboratory programsA National Diploma qualification is offered by Technical Institutions other than the University and is equivalent to the Certificate program, granted by the University. This program is available at:

Jinja Medical Laboratory Training SchoolP.O. Box 1339Jinja, Uganda

Nsambya Hospital Medical Laboratory Training SchoolP.O. Box 7146Kampala, UgandaTel: 267870

St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor Medical Training School, P.0 Box 200Gulu, Uganda

Laboratory Assistant leading to the Certificate offered by the Public Service Commission.These programs are run by Missionary (Non-Government Organization) Hospitals-Rubaga Hospital, P.O. Box 14130 Kampala, Uganda-Mengo Hospital, P.O.Box 7161, Kampala Uganda-Kitovu Hospital, P.O. Box 413, Masaka, Uganda-Kiwoko Hospital, P.O. Box Luwero Uganda.

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Licensing and RegistrationIn 1996 an Act was passed to register and license Medical Laboratory personnel wherever they are employed in Uganda—in either government or private organizations. The Act is not yet implemented, but it is planned that the Minister of Health will appoint officials to carry it out in 1997/98.

Professional AssociationAssociation of Medical Laboratory Technologists in UgandaP.O. Box 7051Kampala, Uganda


Ugandan graduates from Medical Technology programs are marketable in many parts of the world, e.g. East, Central and Southern Africa, United Kingdom and the Middle East. Many have been admitted with Diploma qualifications to higher degrees in U.K. universities and even obtained qualifications such as the Master of Science (Biomedical Sciences) and Doctorate in U.K. and American institutions.

Currently qualified Technologists from abroad are allowed to practice after they apply to the Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Uganda, which scrutinizes their qualifications and makes appropriate recommendations to the employing body.


Association of Medical TechnologyP.O. Box 7051

Kampala, Uganda

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UNITED STATES

1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINEHigh School Diploma

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12primary school secondary school Associate of Science in

Clinical Laboratory Technology1 2 Clinical Laboratory Technician,

CLT (NCA)Medical Laboratory Technician,MLT (ASCP)

Bachelor of Science in1 2 3 4 Clinical Laboratory

Science or Medical TechnologyClinical Laboratory Scientist,CLS (NCA)Medical Technologist,MT (ASCP)

1* 2* 3* 4* 5* Specialist(ASCP)

1 2 Master’s Degree (M.S.)

1* 2* 3* 4* Specialist(ASCP)

1 2 + Ph.D.

1* 2* SpecialistNote: (ASCP)* = work experienceASCP = American Society of Clinical PathologistsNCA = National Certification Agency for Medical Laboratory PersonnelAlternative routes leading to examination eligibility are noted under Section 3. Levels and Length of Study. Further upward mobility in the field is possible via certification as Diplomate in Laboratory Management, DLM(ASCP), Clinical Laboratory Director, CLDir(NCA), or Clinical Laboratory Supervisor, CLSup(NCA).


Clinical Laboratory Science (Medical Technology) education in the United States dates to the early 1900s. The first bachelor-level program was established at the University of Minnesota in 1922. Currently, there are approximately 340,000 laboratory personnel employed, of which 170,000 (50 %) are medical technologists, 68,000 (20%) are medical laboratory technicians, 9,000 (2.6%) cytotechnologists, 13,000 (3.8%) histological technicians, 27,000 (8%) phlebotomists, and 53,000 (15.6%) others [including nuclear medicine technologists, clinical chemists (PhDs), microbiologists (PhDs), specialists in blood banking, hematology, microbiology, immunology, and others].

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In 1963 entrance requirements to the one-year hospital-based Medical Technology programs changed from 2 to 3 years of pre-professional college studies. By the late 1960s all accredited programs led to a Bachelor’s degree. During that decade 1-year post-high school clinical laboratory assistant (CLA) programs, and later, 2-year post-high school Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) programs were established, the latter mostly in Junior Colleges with hospital affiliations. The CLA programs became 15-month clinical laboratory certificate level programs and were often located at technical institutes. Certification examinations for the CLA program were discontinued in 1982 (August).

At present in the United States, education and training for medical laboratorians takes place entirely at the post-secondary level, following completion of high school (12 years of schooling). Two years of college-level training in the U.S. generally leads to the Associate’s degree, and four years leads to the Bachelor’s degree. Training takes place in colleges, universities and hospital training schools, which are evaluated by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS).

Clinical laboratory scientists in the U.S. are employed in hospitals, clinics, research and development, management, sales, and clinical laboratories within the public and private sector. The medical laboratory is usually directed by a clinical pathologist or a scientist with a doctorate and appropriate experience. The clinical pathologist is a physician who has specialized in laboratory medicine and usually is certified by the American Board of Pathologists.

In the U.S. a Bachelor’s degree is the usual minimum academic requirement for qualifying as a medical laboratory technologist (also called clinical laboratory scientist), with support level personnel, or laboratory technicians, at the associate degree level. Recent technological advances and expertise in management have placed demands on medical technologists that have resulted in the establishment of graduate programs in laboratory science in at least 40 colleges and universities.

In the U.S. the Board of Registry of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) and the National Certification Agency for Medical Laboratory Personnel (NCA) certify laboratory technicians as MLT(ASCP) or CLT(NCA), respectively. From 1997 the Associate’s degree or equivalent will be the pre-requisite for personnel to be certified and perform highly complex testing.

Medical technologists who have the requisite Bachelor’s degree, with education in the sciences and clinical training, are eligible for certification by the Board of Registry of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) as Medical Technologist(MT). Although different routes for eligibility now exist (see Section 3: Levels and Length of Training, below), from 1998 the Bachelor’s degree will be a pre-requisite for eligibility for certification by the National Certification Agency for Medical Laboratory Personnel (NCA) as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist,CLS(NCA). Successful completion of the certification examination is indicated by use of the initials MT(ASCP) or CLS (NCA), respectively.

The Board of Registry of the ASCP certifies persons as technologists in single categories and specialists in the areas of blood banking, chemistry, hematology, immunology, microbiology, nuclear medicine, histotechnology, and cytotechnology. Specialist Certification for Hemapheresis practitioners (HP) has recently been established. The NCA also offers categorical certification, or certification, in the following categories of laboratory sciences: clinical chemistry, hematology, immunohematology, microbiology, phlebotomy, specialist in hematology and cytogenetics. Also, from 1998 the Bachelor’s degree will be a pre-requisite for eligibility for categorical certification by the NCA, as it is for the ASCP certification.

A Diplomate certification in Laboratory Management (DLM) is also available through ASCP Board of Registry. NCA certification examinations are also available for Clinical Laboratory Supervisor (CLS Sup) and Clinical Laboratory Director (CLDir).

The NCA requires re-certification every 3 years with documented 36 hours of continuing education credits. Candidates may also recertify by re-examination. The 36 hours (a change from 40 hours) of continuing education credits reflects changes in NCA re-certification policy approved in April 1996, effective January 1st, 1997. The ASCP offers yearly re-registration.

There are also a number of other certifying agencies in the U.S., including the American Medical Technologists (AMT), the National Registry in Clinical Chemistry (NRCC), the National Registry of Microbiologists (NRM), the American Board of Bioanalysts, and the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board. These are independent organizations which also certify laboratory technologists in their respective laboratory science disciplines.

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3. LEVELS AND LENGTH OF TRAINING (ELIGIBILITY FOR CERTIFICATION EXAMINATIONS)

As of 1997 an associate’s degree or equivalent becomes required for personnel to perform highly complex laboratory testing.(1) (a) Clinical Laboratory Technician-CLT(NCA):To be eligible for the CLT examination applicants must satisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes.

Prior to year 2000

Route 1: Complete a clinical laboratory program (CLT or equivalent) accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Office of Education or approved by a state governmental agency.Route 2: Possess a certificate of an advanced military medical laboratory specialist program.Route 3: Complete an associate degree OR 60 semester hours of college course work including 36 hours in the biological and physical sciences, ANDComplete a structured program in medical office assistance containing a course(s) in clinical laboratory sciences. The program must be accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Office of Education, ANDComplete three years full-time laboratory experience within the last ten years including a minimum of four months in each of the four disciplines of laboratory practice (clinical chemistry, hematology, immunohematology and microbiology). At least two years of the laboratory work experience must be under the supervision of an individual who is appropriately certified as a clinical laboratory scientist, clinical laboratory scientist consultant, clinical laboratory technician or equivalent.Route 4: Possess credentials from a foreign country attesting to clinical laboratory training and experience consistent with or superior to requirements for Routes 1, 2, 3 or 5.Route 5: Complete four years of full-time work experience encompassing the four major disciplines of laboratory practice (clinical chemistry, hematology, immunohematology and microbiology) within the last seven years.

From January 2000

Route 1: Complete an associate degree from a regionally accredited college/ university, including successful completion of a clinical laboratory technician program accredited by an agency approved by the U.S. Office of Education or approved by a state governmental agency.Route 2: Complete an associate degree from a regionally accredited college/ university, AND successfully complete an advanced military specialist programRoute 3: Complete an associate degree from a regionally accredited college/ university including 36 hours in the biological and physical sciences, ANDComplete two years clinical laboratory experience within the past four years. This experience must have included a minimum of three months in each of the four major disciplines of clinical laboratory practice (clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunohematology). Complete one year of the laboratory work experience under the supervision of a certified clinical laboratory scientist, certified clnical laboratory technician or clinical laboratory scientist consultant or equivalent.

(1) (b) Medical Laboratory Technician-MLT(ASCP):To be eligible for this examination category an applicant must satisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes.

Route 1: Associate degree or at least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of academic credit from a regionally accredited college/ university, AND successful completion of a NAACLS accredited MLT program and courses in biology and chemistry, ORRoute 2: Associate degree or at least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of academic credit from a regionally accredited college/ university, including 6 semester hours (9 quarter hours) of chemistry and 6 semester hours (9 quarter hours) of biology, AND CLA (ASCP) certification, ORRoute 3: Associate degree or at least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of academic credit from a regionally accredited college/ university, including 6 semester hours (9 quarter hours) of chemistry and 6 semester hours (9 quarter hours) of biology, AND successful completion of a 50 week U.S. military medical laboratory training course, OR

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Route 4: Associate degree or at least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of academic credit from a regionally accredited college/ university, including 6 semester hours (9 quarter hours) of chemistry and 6 semester hours (9 quarter hours) of biology, AND three years full-time acceptable clinical laboratory experience in Blood Banking, Chemistry, Hematology, Microbiology, Immunology, and Clinical Microscopy within the last ten years. At least two years must be under the supervision of a pathologist (certified by the American Board of Pathology or eligible) or an appropriately certified medical scientist and a certified medical technologist.

(2) Clinical Laboratory Scientist-CLS(NCA) or Medical Technologist-MT(ASCP):(a) Clinical Laboratory Scientist:To be eligible for the CLS examination an applicant must satisfy the requirements of the following routes.

Prior to year 1998

Route 1: Complete a bachelor’s degree-level structured educational program in clinical laboratory science (medical technology or equivalent) including clinical experience in each of the four major disciplines of laboratory practice (clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology and immunohematology).Route 2: Complete a bachelor’s degree-level program including a minimum of 36 hours in the biological and physical sciences, ANDComplete a clinical laboratory program (medical technology or equivalent) program accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Office of Education or approved by a state government agency, ORComplete an advanced military medical laboratory specialist program.Route 3: Complete a bachelor’s degree level program, including 36 semester hours in the biological and physical sciences, ANDComplete two years of full-time laboratory work experience including a minimum of four months in each of the major disciplines of laboratory practice (clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology and immunohematology) within the last five years. The laboratory work experience must be under the supervision of an appropriately certified clinical laboratory scientist or equivalent.Route 4: Be certified as a Clinical Laboratory Technician (CLT) or equivalent, ANDComplete an associate degree program OR 60 semester hours of college course work including 36 semester hours in the biological or physical sciences, ANDComplete four years of full-time laboratory work experience within the last six years, including a minimum of four months in each of the four major disciplines of laboratory practice (clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology and immunohematology). At least two years of the laboratory work experience must be under the supervision of an appropriately certified clinical laboratory scientist or equivalent.Route 5: Complete an associate degree OR 60 semester hours of college course work including 36 semester hours in the biological sciences and physical sciences, ANDComplete six years of full-time laboratory work experience within the last eight years. This experience must include a minimum of six months in each of the four major disciplines of laboratory practice (clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology and immunohematology). At least two years of the laboratory work experience must be under the supervision of an appropriately certified clinical laboratory scientist or equivalent.Route 6: Be certified as a Registered Technologist (RT) by the Canadian Society of Laboratory Technologists, ANDComplete six months of full-time laboratory work experience in each of the four major disciplines of laboratory practice (clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology and immunohematology).Route 7: Be certified as an Advanced Registered Technologist (ART) by the Canadian Society of Laboratory Technologists.

After January 1998

Route 1: Graduate from a structured education program in clinical laboratory science (medical technology or equivalent) accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Office of Education, which culminates in a bachelor’s-level degree and includes clinical experience in each of the four major disciplines of laboratory practice (clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology and immunohematology).Route 2: Complete a bachelor’s-level degree program which includes 36 semester hours in the biological and physical sciences, AND

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Complete a clinical laboratory science program (medical technology or equivalent) accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Office of Education or approved by a state governmental agency, ORComplete an advanced military medical laboratory specialist program.Route 3: Be certified as a Clinical Laboratory Technician (CLT) or equivalent, ANDComplete a bachelor’s-level degree program which includes 36 semester hours in the biological and physical sciences, ANDComplete four years of full-time laboratory work experience within the last six years. This experience must have included a minimum of four months in each of the four major disciplines of laboratory practice (clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology and immunohematology).Route 4: Be certified as a Registered Technologist (RT) by the Canadian Society of Laboratory Technologists, ANDComplete six months of full-time laboratory work experience in each of the four major disciplines of laboratory practice (clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology and immunohematology), ORBe certified as an Advanced Registered Technologist (ART) by the Canadian Society of Laboratory Technologists.

(2) (b) Medical Technologist-MT(ASCP):To be eligible for this examination category an applicant must satisfy the requirements of at least one of the following routes.

Route 1: Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/ university including courses in biological science, chemistry and mathematics, AND successful completion of a NAACLS accredited Medical Technology program, ORRoute 2: MLT(ASCP) certification, AND a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/ university, including 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of biological science (with one semester in microbiology), 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of chemistry (with one semester in organic or biochemistry), one semester (one quarter) of mathematics, AND three years of full-time acceptable clinical laboratory experience in Blood Banking, Chemistry, Hematology, Microbiology, Immunology and Clinical Microscopy within the last ten years. At least two years must be under the supervision of a pathologist (certified by the American Board of Pathology or eligible) or an appropriately certified medical scientist and a certified medical technologist, ORRoute 3: CLA*(ASCP) certification, AND a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/ university, including 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of biological science (with one semester in microbiology), 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of chemistry (with one semester in organic or biochemistry), one semester (one quarter) of mathematics, AND four years of full-time acceptable clinical laboratory experience in Blood Banking, Chemistry, Hematology, Microbiology, Immunology and Clinical Microscopy within the last ten years. At least two years must be under the supervision of a pathologist (certified by the American Board of Pathology or eligible) or an appropriately certified medical scientist and a certified medical technologist, ORRoute 4: Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college/ university, including 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of biological science (with one semester in microbiology), 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of chemistry (with one semester in organic or biochemistry), one semester (one quarter) of mathematics, AND five years of full-time acceptable clinical laboratory experience in Blood Banking, Chemistry, Hematology, Microbiology, Immunology and Clinical Microscopy within the last ten years. At least two years must be under the supervision of a pathologist (certified by the American Board of Pathology or eligible) or an appropriately certified medical scientist and a certified medical technologist.

* CLA was a 1-year to 15-month post-high school Clinical Laboratory Assistant program. Cetification examinations for these programs were discontinued in August 1982.

(3) Categorical Technologist (ASCP):Histotechnologist, HTL(ASCP)Bachelor’s degree with specified science requirement plus 1 year work experience

Cytotechnologist, CT(ASCP)Bachelor’s degree including 1-year accredited cytotechnology program, ORBachelor’s degree with specified science requirement plus 5 years work experience

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Blood Banking, BB(ASCP), Hematology, H(ASCP) and Immunology, I(ASCP)Bachelor’s degree with specified science requirement and attendance at an accredited program,ORBachelor’s degree with 2 years of of work experience

Clinical Chemistry, C(ASCP) and Microbiology, M(ASCP)Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Chemistry or Microbiology or the equivalent, plus 1 year work experience

(4) Categorical Technologist (NCA) Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Immunohematology, Microbiology:Associate’s degree or 2 years(60 semester hours) of specified course work plus 18 months work experience within the last 4 years, OR* Bachelor’s degree plus 6 months work experience.

*As of 1998 a Bachelor’s degree becomes a prerequisite for eligibilty by all routes.

(5) Specialist (ASCP) in Chemistry SC(ASCP), Hematology SH(ASCP), Immunology SI(ASCP),or Microbiology SM(ASCP):

Master’s degree plus 4 years work experience, ORDoctorate plus 2 years work experience, ORMT(ASCP) or categorical certification plus 5 years work experience.

(6) Specialist in Blood Banking SBB(ASCP):Master’s degree or doctorate plus 3 years work experience, ORMT(ASCP) or BB(ASCP) certification plus a bachelor’s degree and 5 years work experience, ORBachelor’s degree plus completion of an accredited Specialist in Blood Bank Technology program

(7) Specialist in Cytotechnology, SCT(ASCP):CT(ASCP) certification and Bachelor’s degree plus 5 years work experience, ORCT(ASCP) certification and Master’s degree plus 4 years work experience, ORCT(ASCP) certification and doctorate plus 3 years work experience.

(8) Clinical Laboratory Specialist in Hematology CLSp(H)(NCA)Route 1: Master’s or higher degree in hematology or a related field, AND two years of full-time work experience as a clinical hematology practitioner or educator (generalist or hematology categorical)Route 2: License or Certification by a credentialing agency recognized by NCA as an equivalent designation, AND four years of full-time work experience as a clinical hematology practitioner or educator.

(9) Diplomate in Laboratory Management, DLM(ASCP):MBA or MHA or equivalent plus ASCP Board of Registry technologist/specialist certification plus 2 years work experience as clinical laboratory supervisor or manager, ORMBA or MHA or equivalent plus 3 years work experience as supervisor or manager, ORMaster’s degree plus ASCP Board of Registry technologist/specialist certification plus 3 years work experience as clinical laboratory supervisor or manager*, ORBachelor’s degree plus ASCP Board of Registry technologist/specialist certification plus 5 years work experience as clinical laboratory supervisor or manager*, ORDoctorate in Medicine, Chemistry, Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, Allied Health, Clinical Laboratory Sciences or related field plus 3 years work experience as clinical laboratory supervisor or manager*, ORBachelor’s degree plus 6 years work experience as clinical laboratory supervisor or manager*, ORBachelor’s degree in management or business related field plus 6 years work experience as clinical laboratory supervisor or manager.

* Course work must include management, statistics and computer science.

(10) Clinical Laboratory Director, CLDir(NCA):Master’s degree in management, health care management, education, business administration or medical technology

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plus NCA certification as generalist, categorical or specialist, or equivalent licensure, ORMaster’s degree in biological, chemical, medical or physical sciences plus 2 years work experience in clinical laboratory management plus NCA certification as generalist, categorical or specialist, or equivalent licensure, ORNCA certification as generalist, categorical or specialist, or equivalent licensure plus 4 years work experience in clinical laboratory management.

(11) Clinical Laboratory Supervisor, CLSup(NCA):NCA certification as generalist, categorical or specialist, or equivalent licensure plus 4 years work experience in clinical laboratory supervision.


(a) Associate’s and Bachelor’s degree programs:Applicants for most programs in clinical laboratory science in the U.S. must have the high school diploma including:

1 year of biology 1 year of chemistry and 1 year of mathematics with. trigonometry and intermediate algebra.

Also desirable for a Bachelor’s degree are: 2-4 years of a foreign language, additional mathematics, computer science, physics, and advanced biology or chemistry.

(b) Graduate (M.S. and Ph.D.) programs:Completion of a Bachelor’s degree and appropriate scientific background.


The generalist education for medical laboratorians in the U.S. includes education and clinical practice in:

Clinical Chemistry (including Urinalysis); Clinical Microbiology (including Bacteriology, Parasitology, Mycology, Virology); Hematology (including Hemostasis); Immunohematology (Blood Banking); and Immunology

Laboratorians may also concentrate in the following areas:

Clinical Chemistry Cytogenetics Clinical Microbiology Histotechnology Hematology Immunology Immunohematology Nuclear Medicine Blood Banking Molecular Genetics Cytotechnology Hemapheresis

Medical laboratory science education is tied to the U.S. higher education system in a way that allows for upward and lateral mobility and cross-fertilization with other fields.. Fields that are particularly important to the growth of the profession include:

Management and Administration Public Health Education Scientific Research Health Care Policy Computer Science Engineering Medicine

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For example, the holder of a Bachelor’s degree in Biology who has taken the requisite number of science courses may apply to a 1-year hospital school clinical certificate program and then take the examination to become certified as a medical technologist or clinical laboratory scientist. Alternatively, the student may work in the field for 5 years in order to qualify to take the examination.

Thus, the variety of available routes to certification results in laboratorians who are broadly educated and who can contribute to the growth of the profession through their knowledge in a variety of areas. For this reason and because of the upward mobility of the so-called “career ladder” programs offered in the U.S. for medical laboratorians, the scope of the field of medical laboratory science in the U.S. is an ever-widening one.

6. CURRICULUM

Most U.S. colleges and universities use the semester-hour system to measure quantity of instruction. In this system one 50-minute lecture per week for a 16-week semester equals 1 semester hour (S.H.). Therefore 30 semester hours are equivalent to 1 year of full-time work. For laboratory work, 2-4 hours per week is usually equal to 1 semester hour.

Schools that divide the school year into quarters rather than semesters use the quarter hour system. In this system one 50-minute lecture for 11 weeks equals 1 quarter hour (Q.H.), with 45 quarter hours equaling 1 year full-time course work. Schools with variations of quantity measurements will usually have equivalency statements indicated on students’ transcripts.

The minimum requirement for the Associate’s degree is 2 years--60 S.H. or 90 Q.H.. For the Bachelor’s degree, the minimum requirement is 4 years or 120 S.H. or 180 Q.H.

An Associate’s degree which leads to MLT certification must include a minimum of 6 S.H. of Chemistry and 6 of Biology. Similarly the Bachelor’s degree must include 36 S.H. of Biology and Physical Sciences.

Under the Federal guidelines for implementation of the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1988 (CLIA), an Associate degree in Medical Laboratory Technology or its equivalent is required to perform high complexity testing as of 1997.

In some programs, Bachelor of Science level students attend a college or university for 3-4 years, fulfilling the above requirements in addition to introductory courses in medical laboratory science. In the fourth or fifth year, students attend an accredited hospital school affiliated with their academic institution(3 + 1 or 4 + 1; the latter being common in California).

Other Bachelor’s educational schemes include:integration of science, professional courses and clinical practice during the last 2 years (2 + 2 programs)integration of professional courses and clinical practice concentrated throughout the 4 years with clinical practice

concentrated in the third and/or fourth years.alternating work or “co-op” experience (work for pay) with an integrated curriculum. This usually requires 5 years for a

Bachelor’s degree program. This kind of structure is available, for example, at Northeastern University in Massachusetts and at Hahneman University in Pennsylvania.

Switching from a quarter to a semester system (or vice versa) is easy. To convert credits from the quarter to semester system, divide the number of quarter credits by two-thirds. Therefore, a quarter course of six credits is equivalent to a semester course of four credits (6 ÷ 2/3 = 4). To convert semester credits to quarter credits, multiply number of semester credits by one and one-half. Therefore, a two-credit semester course is equivalent to a three-credit quarter course(2 x 3/2 = 3). It can be seen in Curriculum A that students have preclinical courses (year four, fall, winter, spring quarters) prior to their clinical experience in hospital laboratories.

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GradingThe system for grading course work and school examination in the U.S. is as follows: A = Excellent 4.0 quality points B = Good 3.0 quality points C = Satisfactory 2.0 quality points D = Poor (Passing) 1.0 quality points E or F = Fail 0.0 quality points

Certification examinations are given on pass/fail basis. They are usually taken shortly after the student completes clinical rotations. The NCA examination is 200 items, paper and pencil; the ASCP examination is 100 items, via the computer.

SAMPLE CURRICULA4-year Bachelor in Clinical Laboratory Science

Integrated system using the quarter system (11 weeks = one quarter)Sample : University of Minnesota-1996

CURRICULUM A: CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE

Quarter Fall (credits) Winter (credits) Spring (credits) Summer (credits)Year One General Chem. (5) Gen. Chem. (5) General Biol.(5)

English Comp. (5) Elective (4-5) Elective (4-5)Math (5) Elective (4-5) Elective (4-5)CLS Orientation (1)

Year Two Genetics (4-5) Org. Chem. (5-6) Org. Chem. (5-6)Physics (5) Physics (5) Anatomy (5)Elective (4-5) Elective (4-5) Elective (4-5)

Year Three Biochemistry (4) Biochemistry (4) Math(5)/ Stats. (4-5)Microbiology (4) Physiology (5) Pathology (5)Elective (4) Writing in Sci. (5) Elective (4)

Year Four Intro. to Lab. Sci. (2) Chemistry II (4) Chemistry III (4) Clinical RotationsChemistry I (4) Immunohemat., 23 weeks (16-18)Hematology I (3) Hemostasis/ Immunology (5) (summer and fall)Virology, Mycology Instrumentation (3) Hematology/and Parasitology (3) Management/ Morphology (4)Elective (4-5) Education (1)

Total Credits needed to graduate = 180 quarter credits.

4-year Bachelor in Clinical Laboratory Science3 + 1 Program ; using the semester system

CURRICULUM B: CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE

Fall Semester (credits) Spring Semester (credits)Year One General Chemistry (4) General Chemistry (4) English Composition (4) Anatomy (4) General Biology (4) Electives (7-8) Mathematics (4)Year Two Organic Chemistry (5) Physiology (5) Physics (5) Physics/Instrumentation (5) Elective (4-5) Elective (4-5)Year Three Biochemistry (5) Immunology (4) General Microbiology (5) Computer Science (4) Histology (5) Genetics (4)

Elective (4)Year FourClinical Rotations (30 credits) are achieved through an accredited hospital program, 50-52 weeks in length. They include hematology, coagulation, microbiology, chemistry, urinalysis, immunohematology, serology, management and education; some electives such as virology, cytogenetics, research etc., are also included.

Total credits needed to graduate = 120 semester credits.

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5-Year Bachelor of Medical Laboratory ScienceNortheastern University

Class of 2000

Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Fall QH Winter QH Spring QH SummerMath 4 Animal Biology 4 Gen Chemistry 5Gen Biology 4 Prof Dynamics 4 English 2 4Gen Chemistry 1 5 Orientation 2 1 Lab Techniques 3English 1 4 Physics I 4 Physics II 4Orientation 1 1 Physics I Lab(opt) Physics II Lab 1 Elective 4 18 17 17

Quarter 4 QH Quarter 5 QH Renal Physiol. 2 Immunology 2 Urinalysis Lab 1 Organic Chemistry 2 5Organic Chem. 1 5 Co-op Anatomy & Physiol. 4 Co-opAnatomy & Physiol. 4 Elective (s) 4 - 8Elective 4 16 15-19

Quarter 6 QH Quarter 7 QH Microbiol. 4 Adv Microbiol. 4 Microbiol. Lab 1 Cell Physiol. 4Co-op Genetics 4 Co-op Writ. for Hlth Prof 4 Anal Chemistry 4 Parasit/Mycol. 3 Elective 4 Elective (opt) 4 17 15-19

Quarter 8 QH Quarter 9 QH Blood Banking (lect) 3 Adv.Blood Bank. 2Hematology 4 Advanced Hematol. 3Hematol. Lab 1 Co-op Advanced Chem 4 Co-opClin Chemistry 4 Hemostasis 1Clin Chem Lab 1 Blood Banking Lab 1MLS Education 2 Elective 4+ Elective (opt) 15-19 + Elective (opt) 15-19

Quarter 10 QH Quarter 11 QH Clin. Applied Study Clin. Applied Study Hematology 4 Immunohematol. 4Co-op Microbiol. 7 Clin Chemistry 7 Immunology 1 1 Immunology 2 1 Management 2 Seminar 2 14 14

Total 173 NU QH *

Electives: 3 Humanities; 2 Social Sciences; Computer; StatisticsGrades: All MLS courses must be completed with a “C-” or better grade.Cum: A 2.5 cumulative grade average (75% or between B to C) is required for starting Clinical Applied Study and graduation.Co-op: Work or co-operative experience (generally work-for-pay) at hospitals, clinicsbiotechnology or pharmaceutical companies.* A NU QH (Northeastern University Quarter Hour) is equal to 3⁄4 of a Semester Hour.

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2 1⁄2-Year Associate DegreeMedical Laboratory Technician Program

Northeastern University

FIRST YEARQUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3Fall QH Winter QH Spring QHMath 4 Gen. Chem. 2 5 Animal Biology 4Gen. Chem. 1 5 General Biology 4 English 2 4English 1 4 Orientation 2 1 Lab. Techniques 2Orientation 1 1 Prof. Dynamics 4 * Elective 4Urinalysis 2 * Elective (optional) 4Urinalysis Lab. 1Total 17 14-18 14SECOND YEARQUARTER 4 QUARTER 5Fall QH Winter Spring QH SummerAnat. & Physiol. 1 4 Co-op Immunology 2 Co-opClinical Chem. 4 Imm-hemat Lab. 1Clin. Chem. Lab. 1 Anat & Physio 2 4Immunohematol. 3 Para./Myc(Opt) 3Hematology 4 * Elective 4Hematol. Lab. 1Total 17 14THIRD YEAR

QUARTER 6 QUARTER 7Fall Winter QHCo-op Microbiol. 4

Microbiol. Lab. 1Applied Hematol. 2Applied Immunol. 2Special Topics 2Applied Microbiol. 2Applied Clin. Chem. 2Seminar 2

Total 17Grand Total 80 NU QH*

* Electives: 4 QH of humanities, 4 QH of computer science.Organic Chemistry: CHM1264/5 required for students who plan to enter MT program.Grades: All MLS courses must be completed with a grade of “C-” or better.Adv MLS: Students could take Advanced Hem or Advanced Clinical Chem. in Quarter 5 in elective slots.Cum: Students need a 2.0 cumulative grade average (70% or C) to start Clinical Applied Study and to graduate.Co-op : Work or co-operative experience (generally work-for-pay) at hospitals, clinics, biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies.* A NU QH (Northeastern University Quarter Hour) is equal to 3⁄4 of a Semester Hour.

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7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

A list of programs may be obtained from the:

National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)8410 West Bryn Mawr, Suite 670 Tel: (312) 714-8880Chicago, Illinois 60631


(a) Accreditation - Accreditation of clinical laboratory educational programs is by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). It is voluntary in nature but is required for student aid, e.g. loans and grants. (see Appendix 2).

(b) Licensure - In medical laboratory science, licensure is not the primary mode of gatekeeping, with the exception of several states. Successful passing of a separate state licensure examination is required for laboratory professionals to practice in California, Florida and Tennessee. Personnel licensure is also required in Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, New York, North Dakota, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island and West Virginia but may be granted for successful passing of a national certification examination rather than a separate state examination.

(c) Certification - In laboratory science most graduates take certification examinations. Certification is the process by which a nongovernmental agency or association grants recognition to an individual who has met predetermined qualifications--usually passing a certificate examination--specified by that agency or association. Certification is voluntary; Legally a certificate is not needed to practice, except as noted in (b) above. However, most graduates of laboratory science programs take certification examinations, since employers strongly recommend that employees hold a certificate, that usually infers competence to practice. Certification in laboratory science is complex since multiple agencies provide certification examinations. (See Appendix 1).

(d) Professional Associations and Organizations - (See Appendix 2)


The NCA recognizes equivalent or higher professional medical laboratory science education by allowing candidates with these qualifications to write the first level generalist Clinical Laboratory Technician examination (CLT). This examination tests knowledge in the areas of clinical chemistry, hematology, immunohematology and microbiology. However, the NCA does require that candidates for NCA examinations have appropriate clinical laboratory work experience in North America [see Section 3: Levels and Length of Training for eligibility for NCA examinations of Canadian Registered Technologists (RT) and Advanced Registered Technologists (ART)]. After 1999 applications will be reviewed on an individual basis by an Appeals Committee and the Board.

The ASCP Board of Registry does not accept clinical laboratory work experience obtained in a foreign country. Foreign medical technology clinical training programs are recognized as equivalent to one year of full-time clinical laboratory work experience obtained in the U.S. and may be applied toward one of the five years or three years of work experience required for eligibility for the MT and MLT examinations, respectively, provided the training was completed within the last seven

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years. The other years of acceptable clinical experience must be obtained in the U.S.

Foreign academic credentials are evaluated for academic equivalencies by acceptable foreign credentials evaluation agencies.


[email protected]

www.ascls.org

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ZIMBABWE1. EDUCATIONAL OUTLINE

(a) Since 1987:GCE ‘O’ Level

GCE ‘A’ Level1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Primary SecondaryPart I General Diploma in

1 2 Medical Lab. Technology

Part II General Diploma inMedical Lab. Technology

Part III SpecialistDip. Med. Lab.Technology

(b):GCE ‘O’ Level

GCE ‘A’ Level1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Primary Secondary

General Diploma in1 2 3 Medical Lab. Technology

Specialist Diploma inUniversity of Zimbabwe 1 2 Medical. Lab.

Technology**

(c) From 1996GCE ‘O’ Level

GCE ‘A’ Level1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Primary SecondaryBachelor’s Degree Honors in

1 2 3 4 Medical Laboratory Sciences

Master’s Degree

1 2 3 4Doctorate degree

* = part time while in employment** = requires 1 year on attachment at an outstation laboratory prior to admission


Education Prior to 1987:Training of Medical Laboratory Technologists in Zimbabwe began in 1954. The program was an in-service course, leading to the Diploma in General Medical Laboratory Technology (the former National Diploma in Medical Technology) and registration as a Medical Technologist. It lasted four years, during which time the student had to be in full-time employment at an approved laboratory. After the first two years of study the student received the National Intermediate Diploma. While employed, the student worked in all the disciplines of

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Medical Laboratory Technology (Histopathology, Microbiology, Hematology/Blood Transfusion, Parasitology, Immunology and Clinical Biochemistry). After Zimbabwe’s independence, the training changed and the student had to attend lectures which were organized by the Harare Polytechnic and the Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Zimbabwe (Parts I and II). Graduates of the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology were allowed to proceed to a further two years of study to receive a Specialist Diploma in a Medical Laboratory Technology at the University of Zimbabwe.

Education since 1987:In 1987 changes were made in this training. The training now consisted of a 2-year, full-time course for the General Diploma (Part I) in Medical Laboratory Technology. This was followed by a 2-year in-service course for the Part II of the Diploma. Part III of the course, which led to the Specialist Diploma (S. Dip. ML. Tech.), allowed for specialization in a particular medical laboratory science subject at a senior level. Parts II and III were on a block-release basis and students were placed in approved training laboratories. The full-time program was run by the Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists and was supervised by the University of Zimbabwe.

In 1987 the University of Zimbabwe also designed a new course specifically to comply with international standards but with particular attention to the requirements of Zimbabwe’s employers. The emphasis was on a sound theoretical foundation in Medical Laboratory Technology and competence in routine clinical technique. The course was on a full-time basis and led to the award of the General Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, which was of 3 years duration, followed by the Specialist Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, which was of 2 years duration.

In 1995 the above programs began to be phased out and a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences - Honors Degree program was introduced. Master’s Degrees were introduced in Clinical Biochemistry in 1995 and in Medical Microbiology in 1997. Plans are being finalized for Master’s Degrees in Hematology, Cellular Pathology and Immunology. Doctoral programs in specialty areas are also available.


Programs leading to the General Diploma & the Specialist Diploma: Since 1987 there have been two 3-part programs and one 2-part program leading to the General Diploma & Specialist Diploma; as of 1995 these were being phased out.

(1) The following part-time program run by Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Zimbabwe/Harare Polytechnic and supervised by the University of Zimbabwe, was being phased out from 1995. (Not shown in Section 1 above)

(a) Study for the Part I examinations required 2 years while in full-time employment. The theoretical study consisted of 6 weeks of block release in each of the three terms of the academic year. The maximum classroom time was 720 hours/year with a total of 1440 hours during the two-year period.

(b) Study for the Part II examinations, which also required 2 years of study while employed and led to the National Diploma in Medical Technology, was structured as the Part I program with the same hourly requirements. A graduate with the National Diploma in Medical Technology was eligible to register as a Medical Technologist with the Health Professions Council of Zimbabwe.

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(c) Study for the Part III examinations, which lasted a further 2 years and led to the Specialist Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, offered specialization in one of the following areas of study:

Histopathology Bacteriology (including Mycology) Virology Hematology and Blood Transfusion Immunology Parasitology Clinical Chemistry

(2) The following program, which required full-time study in the first year, was run by the Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Zimbabwe and supervised by the University of Zimbabwe. It was discontinued in 1995.

(a) Part I, leading to the General Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (Part I) required 2 years of full-time study at the University of Zimbabwe.

(b) Study for the Part II examinations, which required 2 years of part-time study while attached to an approved training laboratory, led to the General Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology. A graduate with the General Diploma was eligible to register with the Health Professions Council in Zimbabwe.

(c) Study for the Part III examinations, which lasted another 2 years part-time and led to the Specialist Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, offered specialization in one of the following areas of study:

Histopathology Bacteriology (including Mycology) Virology Hematology and Blood Transfusion Immunology Parasitology Clinical Chemistry

(3) The 2-part program run by the University of Zimbabwe and leading to the General Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, and the Specialist Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology began to be phased out in 1995.

(a) The General Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology required 3 years full-time attendance at the University of Zimbabwe. A graduate with a General Diploma was eligible to register with the Health Professions Council of Zimbabwe.

(b) The Specialist Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology required 2 years full-time attendance at the University of Zimbabwe after the candidate had spent one year on attachment at an outstation laboratory. Specialization in one of the following areas of study was offered:

Histopathology Clinical Chemistry Virology Bacteriology (including Mycology) Immunology Immunohematology and Hematology Parasitology

Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences Honors Degree: This degree program requires full-time attendance over a minimum period of 4 years. The BMLS Honors Degree is divided into four parts. Part I, II, III & IV take place in the first, second, third and fourth years respectively. Part I begins at the beginning of the normal academic year. Parts II, III, & IV begin in the third week of January. Students are placed in a clinical laboratory for experience in all the clinical disciplines. Students who successfully complete the course and then undergo 1 year internship in an approved clinical laboratory are eligible to register with the Health Professions Council of Zimbabwe.

Masters Degree:

(a) Clinical Biochemistry (1995); Medical Microbiology (1997)These programs are offered by the University of Zimbabwe on a part-time basis and runs for two years. The programs consists of two parts. Part I is composed of course work and Part II is the research component carried out in approved laboratories.

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(b) Other DisciplinesAs of 1999, plans are underway for the introduction of Master’s Degrees in the following disciplines:

Hematology Cellular Pathology Immunology

Doctorate Degree: The program is offered by the University of Zimbabwe on a full-time or part-time basis. Duration is normally a minimum of 3 years and maximum of 5 years full-time, or a minimum of 4 years and maximum of 8 years part-time study and research in the various disciplines of Medical Laboratory Sciences.


Pre-1996

General Diploma and Specialist Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology: Programs are run by the Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists in Zimbabwe, Harare Polytechnic and University of Zimbabwe.

Part I - General Diploma Medical Laboratory TechnologyThe minimum entry qualification for Part I was a General Certificate of Education (GCE) at Ordinary level with grade C or better in English Language, Mathematics, two science subjects (Chemistry, Physics or Biology) and a minimum grade of C in another subject.

Part II - General Diploma in Medical Laboratory TechnologyApplicants had to have passes in all the subjects of the General Diploma (Part I) or an equivalent qualification.

Part III - Specialist Diploma in Medical Laboratory TechnologyApplicants had to have a pass in all subjects of the Part II examinations or equivalent. They also had to be registered Medical Laboratory Technologists and had to be employed in an approved laboratory.

General Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (program with full-time first year): For potential entry into the first year of the course, minimum qualifications were:

A General Certificate in Education at Ordinary level with passes in English Language and Mathematics ANDAn Advanced level or equivalent qualification with passes in any two of the following subjects: Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Physics.

Entry for mature students was determined by the University of Zimbabwe.For entry into 2nd year, qualifications were determined by the University of Zimbabwe.

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Specialist Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (Program run by the University of Zimbabwe and being phased out from 1995): Any of the following was required:

(a) General Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology of the University of Zimbabwe and a current registration on the General Register for Medical Laboratory Technologists with the Health Professions Council of Zimbabwe; OR

(b) An equivalent acceptable diploma or other qualification and experience deemed equivalent by the University of Zimbabwe, and a current registration on the General Register for Medical Laboratory Technologists with the Health Professions Council of Zimbabwe; OR

(c) A diploma or other qualification deemed acceptable by the University of Zimbabwe and a current registration on the Limited Register for Medical Laboratory Technologists with the Health Professions Council of Zimbabwe in the specialty for which application is made.

The Board of Studies of the Department of Medical Laboratory Technology was the body responsible for assessing qualifications for admission to the course.

Post-1996

Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences Honors Degree: To qualify for consideration for admission, a prospective student must normally have:

Passes at GCE Ordinary Level (or approved equivalent) in English Language and Mathematics.

Passes at GCE Advanced Level (or approved equivalent) in Chemistry and any two of the following three subjects: Biology, Mathematics, Physics.

The subject not offered at “A” Level must normally have been passed at the “O” level.

Master’s Degree:

Applicants should normally have an appropriate honors degree or Specialist Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology from the University of Zimbabwe or a recognized university, and must also be registered with the Health Professions Council of Zimbabwe as Medical Laboratory Scientists.

Doctorate Degree:

Applicants must have obtained an appropriate Master’s Degree and must satisfy the University that they have an adequate command of the English Language


The General Diploma studies have included Microbiology, Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Histology and Immunohematology, as do the Bachelor’s program.

Registered Medical Laboratory Scientists holding the General Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree will be eligible to perform all the duties at the Junior level in hospitals, clinical and private medical laboratories. The specialization undertaken during the study for the Specialist Diplomas, Masters and Doctoral Programs, prepares the graduate for senior level positions in the field. The laboratory attachments require that the trainees spend an adequate period of rotation through all the disciplines under the supervision of an approved teacher in an approved teaching laboratory. The laboratories are assessed by a Board of Studies comprising members of the Zimbabwe Institute of Medical Laboratory Scientists and the Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences of the University of Zimbabwe to ensure that the trainee is fully experienced in the techniques laid down in the syllabus.

6. CURRICULUM

3-Part General Diploma & Specialist Diploma

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in Medical Laboratory Technology program(run by the Association of Medical Laboratory Technologistsof Zimbabwe/Harare Polytechnic/University of Zimbabwe)

Part I provided a foundation in the core science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics) necessary to the underlying principles of Medical Laboratory Technology. It also provided an introduction to the specific disciplines (Hematology, Immunohematology, Histology, Clinical Chemistry and Microbiology) and their fundamental laboratory procedures as shown below.

PART I - Diploma in General Medical Laboratory Technology

Year 1

Subject Total Hours Biology I 180Mathematics I 120 Physics I 120 Laboratory Techniques 180 Chemistry I 120

Year 2

Subject Total Hours Microbiology I 200 Clinical Chemistry I 160Immunohematology I 120 Hematology 150

PART II - Diploma in General Medical Laboratory Technology

Part II continued with the core subjects (Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics) in greater detail, especially Immunology and Biochemistry. It also gave a more comprehensive coverage of the Medical Laboratory Science subjects. General studies were introduced to broaden the student’s outlook and develop communications skills, although the latter was not examined. Below is an example of the Part II Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology.

Year 1

Subject Total Hours Biology 120Mathematics II 120Chemistry II 120 General Studies 120 Laboratory Techniques 120 Year 2

Subject Total Hours Microbiology 150 Clinical Chemistry II 120 Hematology II 150 Histology 150 Immunohematology II 150

PART III - Diploma in General Medical Laboratory Technology

Part III candidates studied one subject from among Histopathology, Virology, Immunology, Clinical Chemistry,

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Bacteriology (including Mycology), Hematology and Blood Transfusion or Parasitology, under the supervision of an approved teacher while in full-time employment as a Medical Technologist. The program teachers were responsible for carrying out a course of tutorials under the auspices of the University of Zimbabwe and also ensured that the candidate was fully experienced in the techniques laid down in the syllabus. Following achievement of the General Diploma students went on to a Specialization; below is one example of a Specialist subject:

Specialist Diploma in Bacteriology (including Mycology) General anatomy, physiology and metabolism of microbial cells Immunology and infectious diseases Environmental bacteriology and mycology Systemic bacteriology and mycology Clinical laboratory correlations Methodology

3-Part General Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (Former program as run by the Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists and University of Zimbabwe

and being discontinued as of 1995)

Part I served as a general introduction to laboratory techniques in the specific disciplines of Immunohematology, Hematology, Histology, Clinical Chemistry and Microbiology.Part II gave a comprehensive coverage of the following Medical Laboratory Technology subjects: Bacteriology Parasitology Hematology & Blood Transfusion Histopathology Clinical Chemistry Virology Part III candidates studied one subject under the supervision of an approved teacher from among:

Bacteriology Histopathology Clinical Chemistry Parasitology Hematology & Blood Transfusion Virology

2-Part General Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (Programs being phased out as run by the University of Zimbabwe)

First Year of StudyThe first year of study provided a foundation in the basic sciences subjects necessary for the underlying principles of Medical Laboratory Technology: This year also provided an introduction to the following specific disciplines of Medical Laboratory Technology and their fundamental procedures: Hematology, Clinical Chemistry, Histology, Microbiology, Immunohematology and Immunology.

Second Year of StudyThis year gave a further comprehensive coverage of the following Medical Laboratory Technology disciplines from the first year: Hematology, Clinical Chemistry, Histology, Microbiology, Immunohematology and Immunology. This year also introduced the course of General Studies to broaden the student’s outlook and develop communication skills, though there was no examination in this subject.

Third Year of StudyDuring this year disciplines covered were Hematology, Clinical Chemistry, Histology, Microbiology, Immunohematology and Immunology continued at an Advanced Level. There were sessional examinations in these subjects and formed part of Continuous Assessment.

Another important aspect of the training during these 2 years was the requirement for the student to gain clinical laboratory experience in the various laboratory technology disciplines detailed above, in approved medical laboratories in Zimbabwe.

Specialist Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology(Program being phased out as of 1996, as run by the University of Zimbabwe)

This part of the course could be taken in the following Medical Laboratory Technology Specialties: Hematology, Clinical Chemistry, Histology, Microbiology, Immunohematology and Immunology, and had the following components:

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(a) The theory, detailed in the syllabus for each particular specialty in which a student was registered.(b) A research project in the specialty chosen, which students were required to complete and submit to the

examiners by September 1st of the fifth year of the program.(c) In-service training for a minimum of 12 months in an approved Specialist Training Laboratory.

4-Year Bachelor in Medical Laboratory Sciences Honors(University of Zimbabwe - projected)*

Each part of the first year, second and fourth year is equivalent to about 896 hours of learning time. Of this 70% will be dedicated to lectures and tutorials, 15% to practical laboratory work and 15% to student-directed learning which will include directed reading (library) and assignments in the first year. For the second and fourth years the distribution is 75%/ 15%/ 10% and 70%/ 10%/ 20% respectively (refer to the table below). Some teaching and practical session time will be spent in routine laboratory work, to ensure that the student is familiar with its operation in terms of such procedures as safety, specimen preparation, specimen processing, techniques plus instrumentation used and data management. This will be done by utilizing small group teaching. A student shall proceed to a clinical laboratory in the third year to gain practical laboratory experience and also to acquire a wide range of interpersonal, communicational and managerial skills.

Course Year Year 1 Year 2 Year 4 Total Cell Biology 100 N/A N/A 100 Molecular Biology/Genetics 70 N/A N/A 70 Laboratory Principles 100 N/A N/A 100 Clinical Chemistry 100 100 150 350 Microbiology 100 100 200 400 Histology 60 80 80 220 Immunohematology/Immunology 90 100 100 290 Hematology N/A 50 80 130 Biostatistics & Research Methodology N/A 80 N/A 80 Laboratory Management Systems N/A 50 N/A 50Theory Total Hours 620 560 610 1790

Practical 140 140 90 370 Student Directed Learning 136 95 196 427 • For the most current information contact University of Zimbabwe www.uz.ac.zw/medicine/medlab or Tel: 263-4-303211

Master’s Degree - Clinical Biochemistry(University of Zimbabwe)

The program consists of two parts. Part I has a course component of 133 hours duration with continuous assessment. Part II is a research project. Students carry out the project under the supervision of an appropriate person approved by the Faculty of Medicine, Higher Degrees Committee.

7. LIST OF PROGRAMS

Programs are offered through:

The Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, and The Department of Chemical PathologyUniversity of Zimbabwe

http://www.uz.ac.zw/medicine/medlab

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Faculty of Medicine, P.O. Box A178Avondale, Harare


(a) Accreditation -The University of Zimbabwe is a government institution. Programs are developed in cooperation between the University and the Zimbabwe Institute of Medical Laboratory Scientists.

(b) Licensure -A professional qualification is required for practice as a Medical Laboratory Scientist in Zimbabwe.

(c) Certification and Registration -Holders of the General Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences Honors degree and Master’s degree may be registered with the Health Professions Council as Medical Laboratory Scientists.

(d) Professional Association -

Zimbabwe Institute for Medical Laboratory Scientists (formerly: Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists) P.O. Box CY 1467 Causeway Harare

Criteria for Membership to ZIMLSStudentAny person undertaking an approved course in Medical Laboratory Sciences leading to the General Diploma (Part II) of B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory Sciences or relevant subject.

AssociateAny person who:

a) has passed the University of Zimbabwe Part II Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology b) possesses a B.Sc. degree in relevant subjects and has had subsequently at least 12 months of appropriate

experience in an approved medical laboratoryc. has an equivalent qualification acceptable to the Institute

MemberAny person who;

a Possesses the University of Zimbabwe Part III Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology or acceptable equivalent, followed by at least 12 months of appropriate experience in a medical laboratory

b) is an Associate Member and has had at least 6 years of appropriate experience in a medical laboratory c) possesses an M.Sc. or equivalent in relevant subjects followed by at least 12 months of continuous

appropriate experience in a medical laboratoryd) is a holder of an M.Phil./Ph.D. or equivalent qualification acceptable to the Institute

FellowA person who must have been registered with the Institute for at least 2 years in the Grade of Member ANDa) has submitted a thesis in compliance with the Institute’s regulations on examinations by thesis, ORb) possesses an M. Phil./Ph.D. or equivalent higher degree in a relevant subject.

9. RECIPROCITY/EQUIVALENCY

All applicants are considered for registration by the Health Professions Council of Zimbabwe in consultation with the Zimbabwe

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Institute of Medical Laboratory Scientists on an individual basis.

For further information contact the Zimbabwe Association directly at:

Dr. Obadiah Moyo, PresidentZimbabwe Institute of Medical Laboratory Scientists

P.O. Box CY 1467, Causeway, HarareTel: 263 705639 Fax: 263 -4-792 588

e-mail [email protected]


Documents

International Directory of Medical Laboratory Science Education