Travel Medical Laboratory Technician Jobs in Oklahoma
Oklahoma is an excellent state for med lab techs looking for abundant job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. The healthcare industry in Oklahoma is rapidly growing, leading to an increase in demand for healthcare professionals. Moreover, Oklahoma is an ideal destination for travelers who wish to explore the diverse landscapes of the state. From the vibrant city of Oklahoma City to the tranquil shores of Lake Texoma, Oklahoma offers a wide variety of scenic locations to explore.
Oklahoma Travel MLT FAQ
How Much Do MLTs Make in Oklahoma?
The median salary for Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians in the state of Oklahoma was $48,480 per year or $23.31 per hour in 2020 with most earning an annual salary between $36,750 and $60,380 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Entry-level jobs in Oklahoma or those with the lowest 10% salary earned around $29,360, while the highest 10% earned more than $76,010. Oklahoma ranks 46 in median annual salary for Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, though when adjusted to the relative cost of living, Oklahoma ranks at 27.
Typically, travel laboratory jobs will provide higher hourly and weekly pay than permanent positions in the same specialty, facility, and location. The estimated weekly gross pay listed for travel Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians is based on the specified hours per week listed on job cards and includes available stipend amounts.
What is the Job Outlook for MLTs in Oklahoma?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical laboratory technicians is projected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
In terms of numbers, this means an additional 24,700 jobs will be created nationwide during this period. Oklahoma specifically has a strong demand for med lab techs due to a growing population and an aging baby boomer generation in need of healthcare.
Another factor that contributes to the positive job outlook is the increasing reliance on laboratory testing for diagnosing and treating diseases. As healthcare advances, med lab techs are becoming more essential in the healthcare industry, with employment opportunities available in hospitals, clinics, research labs, and more.
What Does a MLT Do?
A medical laboratory technician is a trained healthcare professional who handles liquid and solid blood or tissue samples of bodily fluids and tissues to diagnose diseases and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments. They work primarily as part of the healthcare industry in medical facilities and laboratories, critical access and surgical hospitals, clinics or research facilities.
Medical laboratory technologists' responsibilities include collecting samples and analyzing data, interpreting results and reporting normal or abnormal findings to physicians or other healthcare providers. Medical laboratory technicians use highly sensitive specialized equipment such as microscopes, spectrophotometers, and various chemical and biological instruments to perform tests on samples, identify cell types, microorganisms and abnormalities in fluids and tissues.
Medical lab technicians must follow strict protocols and safety procedures when working with lab equipment, biological samples and biological specimens to ensure accurate results and prevent contamination. A medical laboratory technician is crucial to the medical field as their work assists in the prevention of illness, patient's diagnosis of medical conditions and treatment of diseases. They play a vital role in healthcare by providing accurate and reliable laboratory results which form the basis of medical decisions made by physicians and other healthcare professionals.
How to Become a Licensed MLT?
Following completion of their educational requirements, typically an associate's degree program from an accredited institution, medical laboratory technicians should obtain a certification from a recognized professional organization. The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) offers the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification, which is recognized by most states.
To qualify for the MLT certification, candidates must have completed a medical laboratory science program and have at least one year of clinical laboratory experience. They must also pass a certification exam, which covers topics in biological sciences such as hematology, clinical chemistry, microbiology, and immunology.
In addition to the educational and certification requirements, some states may require a license to practice as a medical laboratory technician. There are 13 states that require a license to practice as a medical laboratory technician: California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Tennessee, West Virginia, Texas, and New York. Each state has its own licensing requirements, which may include education, experience, and passing a certification exam.