Biomedical Technologist Career Description
Biomedical technologists provide analytical information and prepared tissue sections obtained by various procedures, to medical doctors or pathologists. This information is important for the prevention and cure of diseases. Biomedical technologists are responsible for the correctness of all the analytical data.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
The work carried out in a medical laboratory is divided mainly into four categories, namely diagnostic work, blood transfusion technology, research and the preparation of serums and vaccines. Diagnostic work however forms the major part of biomedical technologists' work and include the following five disciplines:
Haematology
This is the study of blood.
Chemical pathology
This entails the chemical analyses of body fluids such as blood and urine.
Histopathology
This is the study of diseases that affect body tissues, for example cancer and any other change in the cells of organs that interfere with normal function.
Microbiology
This is the study of bacteria, fungi and viruses that can cause diseases.
Cytology
Cytology is the analysing of cells that the body normally exfoliates.
In the field of blood transfusion technology, biomedical technologists perform the necessary tests on donated blood. This includes for example the identification of blood groups and antibodies. Blood is also tested for various diseases like aids and hepatitis.
An extensive classification and registration system is used in every medical laboratory to ensure that specimens do not get misplaced or exchanged. Biomedical technologists must keep reports of the test results and ensure that these are available for years to come.
Most medical laboratories are connected to hospitals in the bigger centres of our country and they are generally equipped with modern and sophisticated analytical instruments and microscopes. Due to the danger of working with infected material, all laboratories must conform to certain safety regulations at all times. Every specimen must be handled as if it is a source of serious infection.
In laboratories offering a twenty-four hour service, biomedical technologists are expected to do after-hours emergency work, which might include night and weekend work.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Biomedical technologists must be neat, careful and methodical persons. Accuracy is of the utmost importance in the work as negligence could endanger patients' lives. A high concentration capacity is essential.
Biomedical technologists are expected to give their undivided attention to their work so that even a slight variation or change in an experiment will not go unnoticed. All members of this medical profession must be extremely responsible and adhere strictly to the professional code of ethics. For example, no information of laboratory findings may be made known to the public except where ethical procedures allow it.
Where can I work?
Biomedical technologists are employed by state laboratories, Institute for Medical Research, pathology departments at universities and private pathologists.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
After a two-year period of practising as biomedical technologists, these professionals can apply to the Interim National Medical and Dental Council to practice privately. Biomedical technologists can work for themselves or enter into group practices with medical doctors.
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