What is an Histotechnologist - Histotechnician - Surgical Pathology Jobs?
Histotechnologists, histotechnicians, and surgical pathology jobs fall under medical laboratory science. These professionals are responsible for preparing tissues and specimens for microscopic analysis by a pathologist.
Histotechnologists and histotechnicians are trained to process bodily tissues and fluid samples, while surgical pathologists are experts in diagnosing disease by examining tissues and organs. These roles work together to provide accurate diagnoses to patients.
What Usually Do in this Position?
As an histotechnologist, histotechnician, or surgical pathology professional, you'll be responsible for receiving and preparing tissue samples for examination, staining tissues with special dyes, and cutting and mounting tissue samples onto slides. Additionally, you may assist in the preparation of autopsy reports and perform quality control measures to ensure accurate results.
These positions require a high level of attention to detail and the ability to work independently. You'll also need to be familiar with laboratory safety procedures and protocols.
Top 5 Skills for Position
1. Attention to detail
2. Ability to work independently
3. Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols
4. Proficiency in tissue preparation and staining techniques
5. Strong communication skills
How to Become This Type of Specialist
To become an histotechnologist, histotechnician, or surgical pathology professional, you'll need to complete a formal training program in medical laboratory science, typically at the associate's or bachelor's level. Certification from a professional organization, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology, is also required.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for medical laboratory technologists and technicians, which includes histotechnologists and histotechnicians, is $53,120. Surgical pathologists can expect to earn significantly more, with a median annual salary of $208,000.
Roles and Types
Histotechnologists and histotechnicians work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and research laboratories. They may specialize in a particular area, such as immunohistochemistry or electron microscopy.
Surgical pathologists, on the other hand, typically work in hospitals and medical centers. They may specialize in a particular area of pathology, such as gastrointestinal pathology or dermatopathology.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
The largest employers of medical laboratory technologists and technicians, including histotechnologists and histotechnicians, are general medical and surgical hospitals. However, these positions can be found in a variety of healthcare settings across the country.
What are the Typical Tools
Histotechnologists and histotechnicians use a variety of tools and equipment to prepare tissue samples for examination, including microscopes, tissue processors, and cryostats. Surgical pathologists use a similar set of tools, as well as specialized instruments for performing autopsies and surgical procedures.
In Conclusion
Histotechnologists, histotechnicians, and surgical pathology jobs play a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. These professionals are highly trained and skilled, and they work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide accurate and timely diagnoses. If you're interested in pursuing a career in medical laboratory science, consider exploring these rewarding and challenging positions.