Oakton’s Medical Laboratory Technician Program Earns Highest Marks
(June 8, 2016) Oakton Community College’s medical laboratory technician (MLT) program has received reaccreditation from the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) for 10 years, ensuring students enrolled in the program will benefit from the highest level of standards in curriculum and instruction.
MLTs play a vital role on a medical team working behind the scenes to conduct tests that play a key role in assisting a proper diagnosis and treatment plan for life-threatening diseases and illnesses. Oakton prepares students to work in hospitals, HMOs, private and public laboratories, ambulatory care centers, and physicians’ offices. Technicians also may find careers in industrial and commercial sales, marketing, or insurance.
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment to grow 16 percent in this field, adding more than 52,000 jobs, by 2024 — more than double the average growth rate of all occupations. The USBLS attributes the rise due to an aging population, which in turn leads to a larger need for professionals who can diagnose medical conditions through laboratory procedures.
In its glowing site visit report, the NAACLS stated, “The MLT program and Oakton have a commitment and culture of service to students that fosters student success. The program is well run, extremely organized, and are meeting the needs of the community.” The NAACLS also noted that the college’s MLT director, faculty, and clinical site coordinator continuously improve curriculum and meet the needs of the clinical sites.
“We are very pleased to be granted accreditation for the maximum of 10 years and for all the work conducted over the last two years to obtain this level for our program,” said Oakton MLT Chair Lynne Steele. “This just affirms that the college is doing an excellent job in preparing students for this profession.”
The NAACLS is a nonprofit organization committed to being the primary agency responsible for the accreditation and approval of educational programs in the clinical laboratory sciences and related health professions.
