December 1, 2025 | British Columbia

If you have ever had a blood test, urine test, throat swab, or any kind of diagnostic screening, you have already benefited from the work of a Medical Laboratory Assistant. Even though most people never meet professionals working behind the scenes, these individuals play a huge role in keeping our healthcare system accurate, efficient, and safe. So, what is a Medical Laboratory Assistant, exactly? And why is this career becoming so popular across Canada? 
 

Let us break it down in a clear, simple way that shows you exactly what MLAs do, where they work, how they help patients, and what it takes to become medical laboratory assistants. 

What Is a Medical Laboratory Assistant? 

A Medical Laboratory Assistant, often shortened to MLA, is a trained healthcare worker who supports laboratory technologists, pathologists, nurses, and physicians by performing the tasks required before, during and after laboratory testing. They are the backbone of diagnostic services. Without the work of an MLA, many tests simply would not happen or would take far longer to complete. Their job is a mix of hands-on patient interaction and technical lab skills. On some days, an MLA may collect blood samples, calm nervous patients, or answer questions about the testing process. On other days, they may be preparing slides, running basic tests, handling lab equipment, or ensuring samples stay safe and uncontaminated. MLAs help create the foundation for accurate diagnoses, treatment plans, and ongoing patient care. Their work supports every area of medicine. 

What Does a Medical Laboratory Assistant Do? 

The daily responsibilities of an MLA can vary depending on the workplace. A hospital environment looks different from a private diagnostic lab or a community clinic. But at the core, most MLAs are responsible for: 

Collecting samples 

This is one of the most important parts of the role. MLAs collect blood, urine, and other biological specimens from patients. This requires technical skills, strong communication, a gentle approach, and a focus on safety. Phlebotomy, the process of drawing blood, is something MLAs learn through hands-on training. 

Preparing and labeling specimens 

Once samples are collected, MLAs accurately label, log, and prepare them for analysis. Every detail matters. Proper labeling prevents mixing ups and protects patient safety. 

Setting up laboratory equipment 

Before medical technologists can run complex tests, an MLA ensures the equipment is clean, sterile, and calibrated. They prepare slides, mix reagents, and maintain a sterile working environment. 

Performing routine lab tests 

Depending on the facility, MLAs may handle basic tests like urinalysis or blood glucose checks. These routine tests help provide quick results for healthcare teams. 

Following safety and infection control protocols 

MLAs work around infectious samples and chemicals. They must follow strict safety procedures to protect themselves, their coworkers, and patients. 

Supporting the healthcare team 

MLAs communicate with patients, update lab records, deliver results, and assist with general laboratory tasks. Their work supports technologists, nurses, and physicians throughout the diagnostic process. 

Where Do Medical Laboratory Assistants Work? 

MLAs are essential in every area of healthcare. You will find them in: 
 

• Hospital laboratories 
• Outpatient labs 
• Public health laboratories 
• Private diagnostic testing centres 
• Research facilities 
• Physician offices and clinics 
• Post secondary educational labs 
• Quality control labs in industries like food testing 
   

Because diagnostic testing is growing across Canada, work environments are diverse and flexible. Many MLAs work full time, but part-time and shift-based roles are also available. 

What Skills Do MLAs Need? 

Working as a Medical Laboratory Assistant requires a balance of technical competence and people centred skills. Successful MLAs tend to have: 
 

• Strong attention to detail 
• Steady hands and precise technique 
• Good communication and empathy 
• Comfort working with biological samples 
• Ability to follow strict procedures 
• Time management and organization 
• Computer literacy 
• The ability to stay calm in busy healthcare settings 
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Many of these can be learned in a well-designed program, which is why high-quality training makes such a difference. 

Why the Demand for MLAs Is Growing in Canada 

Several trends are increasing the need for trained MLAs. 

An aging population 

More Canadians require regular diagnostic testing to manage chronic illnesses and age-related conditions. 

Expanded healthcare services 

Hospitals, clinics, and public health facilities have increased their testing capacity, creating new hiring needs. 

Faster turnaround expectations 

Doctors rely on rapid results. To meet these expectations, labs need more skilled MLAs to support daily operations. 

Growth in private diagnostic labs 

Canadian cities and suburban regions are seeing a rise in privately operated labs, which hire MLAs year-round. 

Because of these trends, the MLA career path has strong job stability and clear long-term demand. 

What Training Do You Need to Become an MLA? 

Most people start their MLA career by completing a Medical Laboratory Assistant program. These programs blend theory with hands-on lab experience to prepare students for real clinical environments. 

A strong MLA program will teach: 

• Medical terminology 
• Anatomy and physiology 
• Laboratory safety 
• Clinical chemistry 
• Laboratory mathematics 
• Microbiology 
• Infection control 
• Phlebotomy 
• Computer lab systems 
• Quality assurance 

These subjects build the foundation for safe sample collection, accurate specimen handling, and effective laboratory support. Many colleges also include clinical practicum, which is one of the most valuable parts of the training. This allows students to practice their skills in a real laboratory under the supervision of experienced professionals. 

Why Many Students Choose CDI College for MLA Training 

If you are considering this career, CDI College is one of the most recognized options in British Columbia for Medical Laboratory Assistant training. Students often choose CDI College because the program is designed to be practical, supportive, and efficient. 
 

Here is what sets it apart: 
 

• The program can be completed in only 36 weeks 
• Students receive hands on training in state-of-the-art labs 
• A six-week practicum offers real world experience in clinical settings 
• Instructors have direct industry experience 
• Graduates are eligible to obtain an MLA Certificate through the British Columbia Society of Laboratory Science 
• Student support teams help with career preparation and job searches 
• The program is approved by the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit of BC 
   

For anyone looking to start a career in healthcare quickly, the combination of accelerated training and strong job readiness makes CDI College a compelling choice. 

Is a Medical Laboratory Assistant Career Right for You? 

If you enjoy helping people, like working with your hands and prefer a mix of technical tasks and patient interaction, this career might be exactly what you are looking for. MLAs play a meaningful role in patient care every single day, and their work directly influences diagnoses and treatment decisions. It is a stable, respected, and growing profession with clear pathways for advancement in laboratory technology, medical research, or specialized diagnostic areas. 

Final Thoughts 

So, what is a Medical Laboratory Assistant? It keeps the diagnostic process moving. It is a career built on precision, care, and teamwork. And most importantly, it is a role that makes a real difference in the lives of patients. 

If you are ready to start a career in healthcare that offers strong demand, hands-on work, and quick entry into the field, becoming an MLA might be the most rewarding step you take. As you explore your training options, programs like CDI College’s Medical Laboratory Assistant program provide the skills, confidence, and practical experience you need to succeed from day one.