Nova Scotia to offer online learning for medical lab technologists

CITYnews halifax \By Dan Ahlstrand

This fall, students in Nova Scotia that want to become Medical Lab techs can do so online.

The province is partnering with the Toronto-based Michener Institute of Education at University Health Network to create up to 40 spots in the program this September.

This new, three-year program is in addition to the 40 training seats offered through Nova Scotia Community College.

“Medical laboratory technology is a rewarding career that is in high demand right now,” said Brian Wong, Minister of Advanced Education. “This learning model will allow students to learn online and practise in person at Nova Scotia Health facilities throughout the province so we can meet critical labour needs and train the professionals we need to provide Nova Scotians with access to better and faster care.”

“We’ve made a promise to all Nova Scotians to improve healthcare, and we are committed to identifying innovative solutions that will train more students to fill vacancies in critical healthcare jobs, like medical laboratory technologists. This collaboration will provide an opportunity to bring healthcare professionals from around the world to our province and provide the best possible care for our patients,” said Nova Scotia Health President and CEO Karen Oldfield.

People participating in the new program must sign a return of service agreement for a position with Nova Scotia Health. The province has yet to determine the final details on how long they would have to agree to stay in Nova Scotia after graduation.