A histotechnician combines technical skills with scientific knowledge to perform various tissue-related procedures in the histology laboratory. They prepare and stain tissue for routine and special identification of bacteria, fungus, cancer and tissue structure abnormalities. This is completed to aid the pathologist in obtaining a diagnosis.
These professionals must also have patience, precision, fine manual dexterity and the ability to work with minimal supervision. Patient contact is limited.
To prepare for a career as a histotechnician, you should have a solid foundation in the sciences of biology, chemistry, math and computer science. You will need clinical education in a histotechnician (HT) program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) or an associate degree from a community college and training at a hospital. These accredited programs are six to 24 months in length.
Jamie Pert, BS,
HTL(ASCP)cmMBcm
Program Director
Call 248.898.9079
For more information on accredited histotechnician programs, contact:
Executive Director
National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences
5600 N. River Rd. Suite 720
Rosemont, IL 60018-5119
Call 773.714.8880
Fax: 773.714.8886