Exploring current challenges in the technologist workforce of clinical genomics laboratories

Area of Science:

• Clinical Genomics
• Laboratory Science
• Healthcare Workforce

Background:

• Workforce shortages are prevalent across various economic sectors, notably impacting clinical genomics laboratories.
• Medical technologists are crucial for laboratory operations, yet institutions report significant staffing deficits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide concrete data on the workforce needs within clinical genomics laboratories.
• To analyze the current landscape of the technologist workforce in US-based clinical cytogenetics and molecular genetics laboratories.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to clinical laboratory directors across the United States.
• The survey gathered data on technologist demographics, salaries, retention, and hiring challenges in cytogenetics and molecular genetics settings.

Main Results:

• Cytogenetics laboratories reported a higher proportion of unfilled technologist positions compared to molecular laboratories.
• Molecular laboratories received more applications per open position, indicating higher retention rates.
• Key barriers to filling positions included a lack of adequately trained applicants and uncompetitive salary offers.

Conclusions:

• Survey findings offer normative data to address critical workforce shortages in US clinical genomics laboratories.
• Understanding these challenges is essential for developing targeted recruitment and retention strategies.