Critical look at challenges in the medical laboratory science training in the workplace

Medical (diagnostic) laboratories are essential for effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Competent and resourceful laboratory staffs (medical laboratory scientists, technical officers, phlebotomists, and pathologists) are key performers in the pathology industry. In some areas of the world, such as Australia and North America the laboratory workforce in general is becoming older, and there are challenges in finding competent young laboratory scientists to replace them upon retirement (1, 2).