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The Important Role of the Medical Laboratory

Laboratory testing serves as one of the important unseen facets of modern healthcare. As said by the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS), Medical Laboratory professionals are “vital healthcare detectives.” Before a physician can diagnose an infection, monitor a chronic condition like diabetes, identify the cause of unexplained symptoms, or develop an effective treatment plan, they often depend on laboratory results to provide critical insights. While patients may spend only a few minutes having blood drawn or providing a sample, the testing that follows plays a significant role in guiding their care. From routine wellness screenings to complex diagnostic investigations, laboratory data helps healthcare providers make informed decisions with greater confidence and accuracy. Without the work performed in clinical laboratories, many of the diagnoses and treatments we rely on today would simply not be possible.

This is where Medical Laboratory Technologists make a meaningful impact. Working behind the scenes, MLTs analyze blood, urine, tissue, and other patient specimens using sophisticated laboratory instruments, microscopes, and testing technologies. Their role requires a combination of scientific knowledge, technical skill, and attention to detail, as even the smallest finding can provide valuable information about a patient’s health. In many ways, Medical Laboratory Technologists act as healthcare detectives, carefully examining samples for clues that may reveal infection, disease, nutritional deficiencies, or other medical conditions. By generating accurate and reliable test results, they provide physicians and healthcare teams with the information needed to better understand what is happening inside the body and determine the most appropriate path forward for patient care.

What patients cannot say, their body can, and medical lab techs help translate.

The Kind of Testing Medical Laboratory Technologists Perform

Medical Laboratory Techs perform a wide range of tests that help healthcare providers diagnose illnesses, monitor ongoing conditions, and evaluate a patient’s overall health. While many people associate laboratory work with routine blood tests, the reality is that MLTs are involved in analyzing many different types of specimens and conducting testing across several specialized areas of the laboratory. Each specialty focuses on a different aspect of human health, and together they provide a more complete picture of what may be happening inside a patient’s body. Below are a few of several that medical laboratory techs can enter into.

Hematology

When many people think of laboratory testing, hematology is often one of the first areas that comes to mind. In hematology, MLTs study blood and blood cells to help detect conditions such as anemia, clotting disorders, infections, and certain blood diseases. They often examine blood samples under microscopes and use automated analyzers to measure and evaluate various components of the blood, looking for abnormalities that may provide important clues about a patient’s health.

Hematology testing plays a critical role in diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of medical conditions. Medical Laboratory Technologists who work in this area can be found in hospitals, physicians’ offices, and diagnostic laboratories, where they help provide the accurate results healthcare providers rely on every day.

Microbiology

This is the area of the laboratory that focuses on identifying bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms that can cause illness. In microbiology, MLTs analyze patient specimens, grow cultures, and perform testing to help determine what type of infection may be present. They may also assist in identifying which antibiotics or treatments are most likely to be effective against a particular microorganism.

Microbiology plays an important role in helping healthcare providers diagnose infections and develop appropriate treatment plans. Some common places where MLTs may perform microbiology testing include hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, public health laboratories, and research facilities.

Chemical Chemistry

This area focuses on analyzing blood and other body fluids to measure substances such as glucose, cholesterol, hormones, enzymes, and electrolytes. In this area of the laboratory, MLTs perform testing that helps healthcare providers evaluate how different organs and systems in the body are functioning. The results can provide valuable information about a patient’s overall health and help identify potential medical concerns.  Clinical chemistry testing is commonly used to monitor conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, liver disorders, and heart disease.

Medical Laboratory Techs working in this department often operate advanced laboratory analyzers and computerized testing equipment to process large numbers of samples accurately and efficiently. These professionals can be found working in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and other healthcare facilities where timely and reliable test results are essential to patient care.

Immunohematology

Immunohematology, often referred to as blood banking, focuses on ensuring patients receive safe and compatible blood products when transfusions are needed. In this area of the laboratory, MLTs perform blood typing, test compatibility between donor and patient blood, and help prepare blood products for routine procedures, surgeries, and emergency situations. Their work helps ensure that patients receive the correct blood products while reducing the risk of transfusion-related complications.

Because transfusions can be lifesaving, accuracy and attention to detail are especially important in blood banking. Medical Laboratory Technologists working in this specialty play a critical role in patient safety by carefully verifying results and following strict testing procedures. MLTs in immunohematology can often be found working in hospitals, blood banks, transfusion services, and other healthcare facilities that provide blood products to patients in need.

A Typical Day for MLTs

A typical day for a Medical Laboratory Techs is structured, fast-moving, and full of important details that directly support patient care. While no two shifts are exactly the same, and each of the aforementioned areas of work can have varying responsibilities, most MLTs follow a workflow that balances preparation, testing, analysis, and quality control.

A typical day can, but is not limited to, include, according to information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Getting the lab ready for testing
  The day often starts with setting up the laboratory for incoming specimens. This includes checking that instruments are functioning properly, running quality control tests, and making sure everything is calibrated and ready to produce accurate results.
• Processing incoming patient samples
  Throughout the day, MLTs receive a steady flow of samples such as blood, urine, and other body fluids. Each specimen must be carefully labeled, sorted, and prepared before testing.
• Running diagnostic tests
  Once prepared, samples are analyzed using automated laboratory equipment or manual testing methods depending on the department. This could include loading samples into chemistry analyzers, examining blood under a microscope, or setting up cultures in microbiology.
• Reviewing and verifying results
  After testing, MLTs carefully review the data to ensure accuracy. If something looks unusual or inconsistent, they may repeat the test or troubleshoot equipment to confirm the findings before results are released to healthcare providers.
• Troubleshooting equipment and resolving issues
  Laboratory instruments are highly advanced but still require monitoring. If an analyzer flags an error or produces unexpected results, MLTs step in to identify the issue and correct it so testing can continue without delays.
• Maintaining quality and safety standards
  Throughout the shift, MLTs follow strict protocols to maintain a safe and controlled environment. This includes documenting procedures, cleaning work areas, managing supplies, and ensuring compliance with laboratory regulations.
• Communicating critical results
  When urgent or abnormal results come through, MLTs may need to quickly communicate findings to healthcare providers. In some cases, these results can directly impact immediate patient treatment decisions.

Places an MLT Can Work

• Hospitals
• Diagnostic laboratories
• Physician offices
• Public health laboratories
• Research facilities
• Specialty clinics
• Blood donation centers

Check out this infographic from Laboratory Science Careers to see all of the different careers that can come from becoming a Medical laboratory technologist.

A Career That Helps Healthcare Move Forward

Medical Laboratory Technologists may work behind the scenes, but their role in healthcare is essential to every stage of patient care. Each day, laboratory professionals provide the accurate and timely test results that healthcare teams depend on to diagnose illness, monitor chronic conditions, guide treatment decisions, and improve overall patient outcomes. While patients may never see the work being done in the laboratory, the information generated there often plays a defining role in the care they receive. From routine screenings to urgent diagnostic testing, MLTs help ensure that providers have the answers they need when they need them most.

For students interested in combining science, technology, and healthcare into one meaningful career path, Medical Laboratory Technology offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact—one test, one sample, and one patient at a time. Through the Medical Laboratory Technology associate degree program at American National University, students can build the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to enter this in-demand field. The program is designed to prepare learners for real-world laboratory environments by introducing core testing areas, laboratory procedures, and quality standards that reflect current healthcare practices. Graduates are equipped to step into roles where precision, critical thinking, and attention to detail are essential—supporting healthcare teams and contributing directly to patient care through diagnostic science. If you’re ready to look for a future in this career field, visit American National University’s website: https://an.edu/programs/associates/medical-laboratory-technology-associates/

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At American National University, we know our students aren’t typical 18-year-olds living on campus. They’re parents. Military service members. Healthcare professionals. Office workers. Retail associates. First responders. Caregivers. Career changers.

Many are balancing full-time jobs, family responsibilities, and busy schedules while working toward a better future.

That’s why we’ve built our learning experience around the realities of adult life.

What You Can Expect from ANU

We respect your time.

We understand that every hour matters. Our programs are designed to help working adults make meaningful progress toward their educational goals while balancing work, family, and personal commitments.

We offer flexibility without sacrificing quality.

Online learning should provide convenience while still delivering meaningful interaction with instructors and classmates. Many of our programs combine flexible online coursework with live instruction and support to help you stay engaged throughout your education.

We meet you where you are.

Whether you’re returning to school after five years or twenty, we understand that adult learners bring unique experiences and challenges. Our admissions representatives and academic advisors are here to help you navigate the process from your first questions through graduation.

We understand that life happens.

Unexpected work schedules, family emergencies, illnesses, and other life events can occur. When challenges arise, we encourage students to communicate with their instructors and advisors as early as possible so we can help identify available options and keep them moving toward their goals whenever possible.

We support your career goals.

Your education should prepare you for what’s next. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current field or begin an entirely new career, our programs are designed to help you develop practical knowledge and skills that can support your professional goals.

Built Around Real Life

Our students include people who:

• Work full time while earning a degree.
• Study after their children go to bed.
• Balance rotating or overnight work schedules.
• Are changing careers later in life.
• Are the first in their family to attend college.
• Need an education that fits around real-world responsibilities.

If any of those sound like you, you’re in good company.

What We Ask From You

Your success is a partnership.

We’ll provide the education, guidance, and support to help you reach your goals. In return, we ask that you:

• Stay engaged with your coursework.
• Communicate when challenges arise.
• Reach out when you need help.
• Remain committed to your educational goals.

The students who succeed aren’t necessarily the ones with the most free time, they’re the ones who stay connected and keep moving forward.

Your Future Doesn’t Have to Wait

There may never be a perfect time to go back to school.

But there can be a university that understands your life.

If you’re ready to pursue your education while continuing to work, care for your family, and manage life’s responsibilities, American National University is ready to support you every step of the way.

Because your education should fit your life—not the other way around.

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Do you start with a diploma? An associate degree? A bachelor’s degree? What if you’re not ready to commit to four years of school today?

At American National University, you don’t have to have your entire career planned before you begin.

Many of our programs are designed to help you build your education and your career, one step at a time through stackable credentials.

What Are Stackable Credentials?

Stackable credentials allow you to earn a credential, begin working in your field, and continue your education when the time is right.

Instead of viewing education as one long journey with only a finish line, think of it as a series of milestones. Each credential helps you build additional knowledge, skills, and opportunities that can support your long-term career goals.

For many students, that means entering the workforce sooner while keeping the door open for future advancement.

A Pathway That Grows With You

Your first job doesn’t have to be your last job.

Many careers offer opportunities to continue building your education as your responsibilities and your ambitions grow.

For example, someone entering the healthcare field may begin with an entry-level credential before continuing into a management or leadership role later in their career. Likewise, an IT professional may start by learning technical support skills before advancing into networking, cybersecurity, or leadership positions.

Your educational journey can evolve alongside your career.

Learn Practical Skills You Can Use

Adult learners often tell us they want education they can apply immediately, not just theory.

That’s why many of our university programs emphasize practical learning experiences that help students develop career-ready skills. Depending on your program, you may complete hands-on projects, simulations, labs, or other assignments designed to reflect real workplace situations.

These experiences can help you build confidence while preparing for the next step in your career.

Learn from Faculty with Real-World Experience

Who teaches you matters.

At American National University, many instructors bring professional experience from the industries they teach. Their real-world knowledge helps connect classroom concepts with workplace expectations, giving students valuable perspectives on today’s careers.

Combined with our small class sizes, students have opportunities to ask questions, receive feedback, and engage with instructors throughout their education.

Education Designed Around Career Goals

Whether you’re interested in healthcare, information technology, or business, your education should help you move toward a specific career not simply earn a credential.

As you explore programs, consider questions like:

• What entry-level jobs could this program prepare me for?
• What additional education could I pursue later?
• What skills will I develop along the way?
• How can this credential support my long-term career goals?

Our admissions representatives can help you understand how different programs fit together and discuss educational options that align with your goals.

Start Where You Are

You don’t need to have everything figured out before you begin.

Whether you’re starting your first career, changing professions, or looking for opportunities to advance, your education can grow with you.

The most important step is simply taking the first one.

Explore American National University’s career-focused programs and discover how today’s education can become tomorrow’s opportunity.

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Understanding the Needs of Adult Learners

Unlike traditional college students who may be attending school full-time directly after high school, adult learners often face a different set of challenges. Many are balancing full-time employment while pursuing their education. Others are raising children, caring for family members, serving in the military, or managing multiple responsibilities at once. As a result, flexibility, accessibility, and support are often just as important as the academic program itself.

Before choosing a university, working adults should consider questions such as:

• Can I attend classes around my work schedule?
• Will I receive support if I need help?
• How much time will coursework require each week?
• Can I complete my education without relocating?
• Will the learning format match my learning style?

These questions can help determine whether a university is a good fit for your lifestyle.

Flexible Learning Options

One reason many working adults consider American National University is the flexibility offered through online learning. Online courses allow students to access coursework from home, during breaks at work, or wherever they have a reliable internet connection, essentially 24/7 access. This flexibility can make it easier to pursue educational goals while maintaining professional and personal responsibilities.

Students should understand, however, that flexibility does not mean less commitment. Successful online learners still need to dedicate time to attending class, completing assignments, studying course materials, and participating in learning activities.

Live Instruction and Faculty Support

Some online programs rely heavily on self-directed learning with limited instructor interaction. Many adult learners prefer a more structured experience that includes opportunities to engage with instructors and classmates. American National University’s online learning model incorporates live instruction, allowing students to participate in real-time classes, ask questions, engage in discussions, and receive feedback from faculty. For students who value interaction and accountability, this approach can provide a learning experience that feels more connected than purely self-paced online programs.

Career-Focused Programs

Many adult learners return to school with specific career goals in mind. Some are seeking advancement opportunities within their current field, while others are preparing for an entirely new career path. American National University offers programs in areas such as healthcare, information technology, business, and related disciplines that are designed to help students develop knowledge and skills relevant to today’s workforce. When evaluating any program, prospective students should consider how the curriculum aligns with their professional goals and industry requirements.

Support Beyond the Classroom

Returning to school after years away from formal education can feel intimidating. Many adult learners worry about balancing coursework, managing technology, or adapting to academic expectations. Support services can play an important role in student success. Before enrolling, prospective students should explore the resources available to help them navigate their educational journey and stay on track toward graduation.

Is American National University Right for You?

There is no single university that is the right fit for every student. The best choice depends on your goals, schedule, preferred learning environment, and long-term plans. American National University may be a good fit for working adults who are looking for flexible learning options, live online instruction, career-focused programs, and a learning environment designed to accommodate busy schedules. The best way to determine whether American National University aligns with your needs is to explore program options, ask questions, and evaluate how the university’s approach to education fits your personal and professional goals.

The Bottom Line

For working adults, earning a degree often requires balancing education with many other responsibilities. A university that offers flexibility, support, and relevant academic programs can make that journey more manageable. By understanding your goals and carefully evaluating your options, you can determine whether American National University is the right partner for your educational and career aspirations.

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If you’re wondering whether American National University is a legitimate university, the short answer is yes. However, understanding why requires looking at several factors that students should consider when evaluating any institution.

What Makes a University Legitimate?

One of the most important factors is accreditation. Accreditation is a formal review process through which independent accrediting agencies evaluate colleges and universities against established standards. Accredited institutions must demonstrate ongoing compliance with requirements related to academics, student services, faculty qualifications, financial stability, and institutional effectiveness.

American National University is institutionally accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), a recognized accrediting agency. Accreditation provides assurance that a university has undergone independent review and meets established standards for higher education.

A Long History of Serving Students

Another way to evaluate a university is by examining its history and longevity.

American National University traces its roots back to 1886, serving generations of students seeking career-focused education. While educational delivery methods have evolved over time, from traditional classroom instruction to online and hybrid learning models, the university’s mission has remained focused on helping students develop the knowledge and skills needed to pursue their professional goals.

Institutions that endure for decades must continually adapt to changing workforce needs, student expectations, technology, and regulatory requirements. Longevity alone does not guarantee quality, but it does demonstrate an ability to evolve and remain relevant over time.

Career-Focused Programs Designed for Today’s Learners

Many students who choose American National University are working adults balancing education with careers, family responsibilities, military service, or other commitments. As a result, flexibility and practical application are often important considerations.

American National University offers programs in fields such as healthcare, information technology, business, and related disciplines. Many programs are designed to provide students with career-relevant knowledge while accommodating the schedules of adult learners.

Prospective students should always review program curricula, licensure requirements where applicable, and career objectives to determine whether a particular program aligns with their goals.

Understanding Online Reviews and Reputation

When researching any college, students are likely to encounter a mix of positive and negative opinions online. This is true for virtually every institution, regardless of size, location, or accreditation.

Online reviews can provide useful perspectives, but they should not be the sole basis for making a college decision. Individual experiences vary widely based on personal expectations, academic preparedness, financial circumstances, career goals, and other factors.

Students should supplement online reviews with information from official university resources, accreditation agencies, program faculty, admissions representatives, alumni, and employers when possible.

Questions Every Prospective Student Should Ask

Rather than focusing solely on whether a school is “legitimate,” students may benefit from asking more specific questions:

• Is the university accredited?
• Does the program align with my career goals?
• Are there student support services available?
• What are the program requirements and expectations?
• Does the schedule fit my lifestyle?
• Are there opportunities for hands-on learning, internships, clinical experiences, or certifications?
• What are the costs and available financial aid options?

The answers to these questions often provide a clearer picture of whether a university is the right fit for an individual student’s needs.

The Bottom Line

American National University is an accredited institution that has served students for generations through career-focused education. Like any university, it may be a strong fit for some students and less suitable for others depending on their goals, learning preferences, and future plans.

The best approach is to conduct thorough research, ask questions, review accreditation information, and evaluate how well a university aligns with your personal and professional objectives. An informed decision is always the best foundation for a successful educational journey.

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This guide answers some of the most common questions students ask about American National University and accreditation in general.

Is American National University accredited?

Yes. American National University is institutionally accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), a recognized accrediting agency. Accreditation is a process through which colleges and universities undergo periodic reviews to ensure they meet established standards related to academics, student services, institutional effectiveness, and continuous improvement. Accreditation matters because it provides students, employers, and other institutions with assurance that a school meets recognized quality standards. Students considering any college should verify accreditation status directly through the institution and the accrediting agency.

What is DEAC accreditation?

The Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) is an institutional accrediting agency that specializes in distance education and online learning institutions. DEAC-accredited institutions undergo regular reviews that examine areas such as curriculum quality, student support services, faculty qualifications, learning outcomes, financial stability, and institutional effectiveness. Many students are unfamiliar with DEAC because public discussion about accreditation often focuses on regional accrediting agencies. However, DEAC has been recognized for decades as an accrediting body focused on distance and career-oriented education.

What’s the difference between national and regional accreditation?

One of the most common questions prospective students ask involves the difference between national and regional accreditation. Historically, colleges in the United States were often categorized as either nationally accredited or regionally accredited. While the accreditation landscape has evolved, these distinctions are still frequently discussed by students, employers, and transfer institutions. Neither category automatically determines educational quality. However, the distinction can affect certain decisions made by other institutions, particularly regarding transfer credit evaluations and graduate admissions.

Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Education no longer recognizes the distinction between “regional” and “national” institutional accreditation. Instead, it recognizes institutional accrediting agencies and programmatic accrediting agencies. The term “regional accreditation” has effectively been retired at the federal level.

How should students evaluate accreditation when choosing a college?

Accreditation is important, but it should be only one factor in a broader decision-making process.

Students should also consider:

• Program quality and curriculum
• Faculty expertise
• Career services and student support
• Program flexibility
• Cost and financial aid options
• Graduation requirements
• Career outcomes
• Industry partnerships
• Professional licensure considerations, where applicable

The best educational choice depends on a student’s goals, career aspirations, learning preferences, and personal circumstances.

Is American National University a legitimate university?

American National University has provided career-focused education for generations and serves students through online and hybrid learning models. As with any institution, prospective students should review accreditation, academic offerings, student support services, and outcomes information to determine whether the university aligns with their goals.

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Medical and Health Services Manager

This is often the most direct and clear path. This usually includes managing operations in a hospital, clinic, private practice, or public health department, among others. Managers in these positions often oversee budgeting and managing finances like patient fees and billing, recruiting, training, and supervising staff members, representing their facility at governing boards, and developing goals and objectives related to efficiency and quality of services. And according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), this field is projected to grow 23 percent from 2024 to 2034.

Health Information Manager

For many who enter a Medical and Health Services Management educational path, the administrative track is where they want to be. Many join this field through medical billing and coding or health information management tracks. Some of the things that people managing health information do include, but are not limited to, overseeing medical records to ensure privacy and security of patients’ health information, implementing and managing electronic health record systems, ensuring compliance with governing bodies, and organizing and updating information in databases. Those in this role may pursue additional certification, such as from The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

Assisted Living or Long-Term Care Administrator

One of the many places that those with this degree can become a manager of includes assisted living or long-term care homes. The Medical and Health Services degree can prepare students to run assisted living facilities. Many of these responsibilities are supervising staff, recommending changes to policies and procedures like reassessing recordkeeping, overseeing maintenance and repair to machinery, and ensuring the facilities are compliant with environmental, health, and security requirements and regulations. According to BLS, this career track is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034. And with the older generations aging to need care homes like this, many more managers will be needed to keep operations running smoothly.

Healthcare Compliance Manager

Those in management typically have the unique ability to not only understand what healthcare providers must do to care for patients but also understand the policy and work that goes into managing procedure. A consistent healthcare compliance manager is critical to maintain legal and ethical operations as regulations in healthcare can be complex and consistently evolving. These managers will regularly monitor, interpret, and implement healthcare laws, policies, and contracts as they change with the field. These managers ensure adherence to regulatory standards like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

A bachelor’s degree in Medical and Health Services Management opens the door to a wide range of impactful, fast-growing career paths—from medical office management and healthcare compliance to long-term care administration, consulting, and beyond. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, organizations need leaders who understand both the human and operational sides of care. If students are ready to step into a role where your decisions can improve patient experiences, streamline operations, and support healthier communities, this field offers a meaningful and rewarding future.

At American National University, the Medical and Health Services Management bachelor’s program is designed specifically for busy adults who want to advance their careers without putting their lives on hold. With flexible scheduling, career-focused coursework, and instructors who bring real-world healthcare experience into every lesson, ANU helps you build the practical skills employers look for—from leadership and compliance to finance and health information management. Whether you’re entering the healthcare field for the first time or leveling up your existing experience, ANU provides the support, structure, and knowledge you need to succeed. To learn more about ANU’s program, go to an.edu.

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