Histologic Technician and Histotechnologist
Career Description
Histologic technicians (H.T.) and histotechnologists (HTL) are clinical laboratory workers who prepare body tissues for microscopic examination by pathologists. Histologic technicians perform tasks, such as sectioning and staining tissues, embedding tissues in paraffin or plastic, preparing frozen sections of tissues directly from the operating room and operating intricate equipment, including microscopes and microtomes. Histotechnologists perform all of the tasks of a technician and more complex procedures, as well.
Academic Requirements
A high school diploma is required for histologic technician certification. Additional requirements include completing an accredited H.T. training program or two years of laboratory experience. In addition to a bachelor's degree, histologic technicians must complete an accredited HTL training program or have a year of experience.
Schools
Visit the National Society for Histotechnology to view a schools with a histotechnology program.
Professional Associations
National
National Society for Histotechnology
State
Missouri Society for Histotechnologists
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