Frequently Asked Questions — Mercy Integrated Medical Laboratory Science Program at St. Vincent Medical Center
What is medical laboratory science?
The profession of medical laboratory science provides invaluable information for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease through the performance and evaluation of scientific analysis of blood and other body fluids.
MLS is a dynamic, exciting profession that continually changes as new scientific and medical knowledge is discovered. MLS professionals use the latest biomedical instruments, often interfaced with computers, to generate accurate, reliable test results. The results of laboratory tests determine the presence of disease, aid in patient treatment and monitor various therapies.
Some specific duties they may perform:
- Identify bacteria and determine best antibiotic for treatment
- Microscopically classify and differentiate blood cells, microorganisms and crystals
- Determine drug levels to assess treatment and to detect drugs of abuse
- Prepare blood for transfusion and match proper blood donor to recipient
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot sophisticated computerized instruments
- Assess test results for accuracy and the need for confirmatory testing
While most medical laboratory scientists are employed by hospital laboratories, other choices for practice include:
- Clinic, public health or private labs
- Research or in-vitro fertilization labs
- Biotechnology, food or cosmetic industries
- Technical representative for lab equipment
- Sales of lab equipment and supplies
- State or national crime labs
- Health care administration
- Public health and safety
What are the details of the academic year?
The one-year program begins in July. You will spend approximately 40 hours a week, eight hours a day, dividing your time between the classroom and the laboratory. Instruction includes technical and clinical aspects of laboratory analysis with clinical correlation, and theory and concepts in the clinical laboratory and behavior sciences. For further information regarding goals, faculty, service work, advising, grievances, and other rules and regulations, contact the program director.
What are tuition costs?
If you are paying tuition to an affiliated school that reimburses the program, your tuition will depend on the school and there is no additional tuition charged by our program. Otherwise, contact us for the current tuition for 4+1 students that are assessed directly to the student. Once the training has started, there will be no refunds granted by the program for voluntary withdrawal.
What about room, board and transportation?
Room, board and transportation are your responsibility. Meals are provided at discounted prices in the hospital cafeteria.
Are certification exam fees covered?
If you elect to take a certifying exam the fees are your responsibility.
Is parking available?
Parking is available free of charge.
What about employment opportunities?
Permanent positions within Mercy Health are often offered upon graduation. Sign-on bonus and Student Loan Repayment Programs may be available.
Employment opportunities in the laboratory are often available during your training year. Policies and restrictions on employment will be covered in orientation.