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Medical Laboratory Science Education in Australia: An Academic Review.
Rebecca Donkin1,2, Rebecca Gusset2
1School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Sunshine Coast Health Institute, 6 Doherty St, Birtinya, Qld 4575 Australia.
Medical Science Educator
|August 5, 2024
Summary
The study found many Australian Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) academics lack direct industry experience, raising concerns about graduating enough skilled professionals to meet predicted 2026 demand. Further investigation is needed to ensure workforce readiness.
Area of Science:
- Medical Laboratory Science education
- Pathology workforce development
- Allied health professional training
Background:
- Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) are crucial for disease diagnosis and treatment.
- Australia predicts moderate growth in MLS employment by 2026.
- An experienced academic workforce is needed to train skilled MLS graduates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics of academics teaching undergraduate Medical Laboratory Science.
- To identify potential shortages of experienced educators and graduates.
- To assess the readiness of the MLS academic workforce for future demands.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-method descriptive cross-sectional study.
- Recruited 125 Medical Laboratory Science academics.
- Collected quantitative and qualitative survey data from 2019-2021.
Main Results:
- Over 50% of surveyed academics lacked prior Medical Laboratory Scientist work experience.
- Less than a third held an undergraduate degree in Medical Laboratory Science.
- Academic teaching and research interests were diverse, covering MLS and non-MLS topics.
- Academic retention was stable, but new appointments showed minimal growth, potentially due to COVID-19.
- Student enrollment and graduate data were also impacted by the pandemic.
Conclusions:
- The current MLS academic workforce may not be adequately prepared to meet the predicted 2026 demand for skilled professionals.
- The lack of direct industry experience among educators is a significant concern.
- Further research is required to determine if projected workforce growth is achievable.
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