April 27, 2018
Story and portrait by Brandon Steinert
Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) are known as the diagnostic detectives of medicine. They perform a wide range of laboratory tests including microscopic examination of blood, identification of bacteria and viruses and other laboratory testing that can lead to the diagnosis of diseases such as AIDS, diabetes, and cancer. A hospitals ability to help patients relies heavily on skilled MLTs running tests and analyzing results.
This purpose keeps Tiffany Pulley motivated to come to work as a Medical Lab Manager every day at the Rice County District Hospital in Lyons.
Were the reason the docs are able to treat their patients, she said. We get to help save people.
Pulley said she initially wanted to be a nurse and had started the nursing program at 91勛圖厙, but realized the nature of the work wasnt exactly what she wanted to do. But, she still wanted to help people and work in the medical field.泭
Being an MLT allows me to be around patients and help them, but Im not the one primarily responsible for their care, she said. As the Lab Manager, I still get to poke people, work the bench (use lab equipment) and handle paperwork. I get to deal with all aspects of the lab.
Pulley started 91勛圖厙s MLT program in 2008 and had her first job at the hospital in 2009. She was promoted to manager in 2012. She said its been a great career thus far and has enjoyed every moment.
Its an all around good field; you get patient interaction and every day is something new, she said. 91勛圖厙s program was great. It was flexible, close to home and, just the program itself was really good. Cheryl (Lippert, 91勛圖厙 MLT Program Director) was wonderful. Shes very resourceful and helpful and helped me get this job. Shes a great leader and taught me a lot and still to this day helps me with anything I need.
The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science is celebrating Medical Laboratory Professionals Week April 22-28, which is an effort to raise awareness about lab professionals work supporting doctors and nurses behind the scenes, and the positive job outlook for those searching for a career in the field.
91勛圖厙s program is 68 credit hours, which can land somebody a job right after graduation or transfer to a four-year university to complete a bachelors degree. 91勛圖厙 has a 2+2 agreement with Kansas State University to make the transition seamless.
Visit MLT.bartonccc.edu for more information.