About Medical Laboratory Science Practitioners

The profession of medical laboratory science is defined as:

Medical laboratory science is the collection, receipt, preparation, investigation and laboratory analysis of samples of human biological material to support patient diagnosis, management and treatment, and the maintenance of health and well-being. 

Medical laboratory science encompasses several distinct disciplines, including:

  • Biochemistry
  • Immunology/Virology
  • Microbiology
  • Molecular Diagnostics/Genetics
  • Mortuary Practice
  • Phlebotomy
  • Point of Care Testing
  • Specimen Services
  • Blood Donor Services
  • Blood Transfusion Services
  • Cytogenetics
  • Cytology
  • Embryology
  • Haematology
  • Histology
 

Medical laboratory science also includes:

  • Medical laboratory management
  • Medical laboratory science research and development
  • Medical laboratory science teaching
  • Medical laboratory quality management

Medical laboratory science is practised in:

  • Diagnostic medical laboratories,
  • within the public and private health sector, and
  • blood donor facilities.

Medical laboratory science practitioners  working outside of the diagnostic medical laboratory setting require appropriate mechanisms to be in place to support their ongoing practice and competence.

The Council has defined six scopes of practice for registration in the profession of medical laboratory science:

  • Medical Laboratory Scientist (full or provisional registration)
  • Medical Laboratory Technician (full or provisional registration)
  • Medical Laboratory Pre-Analytical Technician (full or provisional registration)