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Histologic
Technicians, also known as HTs, are laboratory personnel that prepare
human or animal tissue samples for microscopic examination. These samples
are used for diagnosing disease, conducting research, and teaching medical
personnel. Slides are prepared by freezing and cutting sections of tissue,
mounting the sample on a slide, and staining them in order to emphasize
the details. Another way that samples can be accurately examined is
embedding the sample in wax. The samples are then cut into very thin
slices using a microtome. Other methods for studying tissue samples
include dehydration, mounting, fixation, sectioning, decalcification, and
microincineration. This work is often done while a surgical team is
awaiting a pathologist's diagnosis; therefore the work must be done
extremely quick and accurate. Since laboratory tests have become
increasingly important in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of many
illnesses and diseases, histologic technicians are vital members of the
medical laboratory team. Anyone interested in this type of laboratory work
should patient and precise, and have the ability to work well under
pressure.
Work Environment:
The majority of histologic technicians work in pathology laboratories in
hospitals and clinics. They may also work in medical or research
laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, doctor's offices, or government
agencies. Individuals may be required to work nights or weekends depending
on place of employment.
High School Preparation:
Students interested in this type of medical laboratory specialty should
take high school courses in algebra, geometry, biology, chemistry,
physics, computer skills, English, health occupations/medical professions
education, and physical education.
College Requirements:
Students entering a histologic technician program should have a high
school diploma or equivalent. Training programs are usually offered in
hospitals or laboratory facilities. There are also accredited programs
around the country that offer a certificate or degree upon completion. In
addition to these educational requirements, students are expected to pass
an examination given by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP).
For educational institutions in
Mississippi
offering this course of study
click here.
Career Outlook:
Employment opportunities for histologic technicians are expected to grow
about as fast as the average for all other occupations. The US Department
of Labor predicts an increase of 10% to 20% over the next eight years. The
rapidly growing older population will be one reason for this growth, since
older people tend to have more medical problems that will require lab
work. New and improved diagnostic tests and other advancements in
technology will also add to a rise in employment in this sector. As in
most occupations, many openings will result from the need to replace
workers who transfer to other companies, retire, or stop working for some
other reason.
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Salary:
Average Annual Salary
$36,800
Salary Range
$29,600-$45,700
Professional Organizations:
National Society for Histotechnology
4201 Northview Drive, Suite 502
Bowie, MD 20716-2604
Phone: (301) 262-6221
Web: www.nsh.org
American Society of Clinical Pathologists
2100 W Harrison Street
Chicago, IL 60612-3798
Phone: (312) 738-1336
Web: www.ascp.org
Mississippi Society for Histotechnologists
Sally Jordan-President
Phone: (601) 362-9854
E-mail: CoffeeMom@prodigy.net
Download our Histologic Technician brochure
here.
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