October 31, 2022

Saint Louis University and Quest Diagnostics Collaborate to Address Critical Lab Tester Shortage

I In breaking news, Saint Louis University and Quest Diagnostics have joined forces to address the critical labour shortage in the critical but underappreciated field of laboratory testing. To increase the number of lab testers, they intend to begin an accelerated bachelor's programme in medical laboratory science. The 16-month programme will include intensive hands-on training and clinical experiences at Quest's laboratory in Lenexa, Kansas.

Amanda Reed, Director of the Medical Laboratory Science Program and assistant professor in the Department of Clinical Health Sciences at Saint Louis University's Doisy College of Health Sciences, justified the need for the programme by stating, "Medical laboratory scientists are the unsung heroes who help save lives every day, and we need more of them in society."

…SLU and Quest Diagnostics hope that the programme will inspire other universities and institutions to organise educational and training programmes for future lab testers…

Medical laboratory science graduates in the United States earn an average annual salary of $66,547, according to Burning Glass Technologies, despite performing lifesaving work and receiving excellent pay and benefits.

"With one-third of our staff nearing retirement age, the need for MLS professionals is even greater," said a source. He also stated that there is a high demand for lab testers, but that dwindling programmes are limiting supply.

According to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics, the field is expected to grow 17% by 2030, with approximately 12,600 openings for medical laboratory scientists over the next decade. Simultaneously, one source claims that colleges and universities are not investing sufficiently in MLS education. SLU and Quest Diagnostics hope that the programme will inspire other universities and institutions to organise educational and training programmes for future lab testers.

The Lenexa program is designed for those who have completed at least 60 college credit hours or have a bachelor's degree in another field. Beginning in 2023, there will be three start dates per year: spring, summer, and fall.

Posted in Collaborations and tagged Collaborations, Saint Louis University, Quest Diagnostics, Lab Tester Shortage, Medical Laboratory Science Program, Doisy College of Health Sciences
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