Why is the CMLTO pursuing the regulation of medical laboratory assistants and medical laboratory technicians?
Over the last three years, the College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario (CMLTO) has repeatedly heard from medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) about changes in the laboratory practice environment. A recurring theme is the increased affect medical laboratory assistants and technicians have on the provision of medical laboratory services. Understanding the effect medical laboratory test results have on patient care underscores the importance of incorporating the profession involved in the key phases of clinical laboratory testing under the same legislative framework that protects the public via the regulation of MLTs. In 2009, CMLTO Council made the regulation of medical laboratory assistants and medical laboratory technicians one of its strategic priorities, based largely on member feedback. The information received from MLTs point to five clear reasons for regulating medical laboratory assistants and technicians: • Impact of medical laboratory assistants and technician
