Technical skills needed to carry out the tasks include microscopy, venipuncture, manipulation of various labware and operation of automated instruments. Results of these procedures are essential to the delivery of quality health care. The field is broad and involves several disciplines: chemistry, hematology, immunohematology (blood banking), immunology, and microbiology.

Medical technology is a constantly evolving profession. Advances in healthcare and new career opportunities have fueled the demand for medical laboratory scientists. Employment opportunities are in hospitals, physician's offices, reference labs, DNA labs, research, veterinary clinics, and other labs. Education and training in medical technology also enables graduates to pursue careers as physicians, forensic scientists, researchers, educators, health administrators, consultants, and many more.