I am frustrated!!!  I would like to know the best way to increase MLT wages.  I work at a small rural facility and we do the work for the hospital, clinic and nursing home.  I have been with the company for 14 years.  I have an Associates degree.  The Rad Techs and RN's also have Associates degrees.  The Rad Tech starting wage is $4.00 and hour more and The RN wage is almost $10.00 an hour more.  Someone please tell me why we are so under compensated!!  I realize that responsibilities are different and supply and demand are reasons for the differences, but....Help me understand!!

Lisa,

I understand your frustration.  This is why I have a difficult time recommending our profession to prospective healthcare students.

We have a wonderful community college in our town.  This college offers Associate Degrees in Nursing, Radiology, Respiratory Therapy and Medical Lab Technician.

Here is a summary of what a graduate of each program faces after completion of their Associate Degree :

Field of Study    Degree   Title   Degree      Title        B.S Increase in Pay

Nursing             A.S.        RN      B.S        BSN         Nodifference

Radiology          A.S.        RT      B.S         RT           No Difference

Respitatory        A.S.       CRT     B.S        CRT         No Difference

                        A.S         RRT*   B.S        RRT*      $3-4 more than CRT

Med Lab            A.S.       MLT     B.S        MT         $3-4 more than MLT

*Respiratory Therapists are paid more once they take the RRT exam.  You need to be a CRT to sit for the RRT.  No additional education - just additional testing - Same duties

Basically the entry level RN, RT, RRT and MT makes pretty much the same.  Note: in the lab, you need a Bachelors Degree to get paid what the Associates Degree from Nursing, Radiology and Respitatory gets paid.  This is why when a student wants to get an Associates Degree in Allied Health, it is hard for me to recommend going into the Medical Lab Field. 

Unfortunately, you will have to finish your Bachelor's degree to sit for the MT exam.  YOU DO NOT HAVE TO GET A B.S IN MT.  Any BS with the required hours/courses in Chem, Bio, Micro, etc. will do.  See the CLIA document or ASCP Route 2.  

Good Luck! 

---

Redeem Sumicad, MBA