Reproductive laboratory technology: an alternative career.
OBJECTIVE
Define the job description for reproductive laboratory technologist (RLT); describe the RLT laboratory setting; identify education level and certification of the respondents; establish level of job satisfaction and job security; determine if certification and position affect performance and job satisfaction; compare RLT job with any previous clinical laboratory position; and document education and training important for the position.


METHODS
A questionnaire was developed with questions targeted to answer objectives. SURVEY POPULATION: The questionnaire was mailed to a random sample of 300 non-physician members from the Reproductive Biology Professional Group and the Reproductive Laboratory Technology Group from membership lists provided by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.


METHODS
81 survey respondents.


RESULTS
RLTs are mostly college-educated, certified and non-certified laboratory professionals, trained on the job for specialty work in andrology and assisted reproductive technology (ART). Position, but not certification, correlate with job performance and job satisfaction. Respondents describe the position of RLT as stressful, but very interesting, exciting, fulfilling, and secure. Respondents with previous clinical laboratory experience rated level of job satisfaction higher for the reproductive laboratory. The CLS curriculum is an excellent background for RLT.


CONCLUSIONS
RLT is an exciting career alternative for CLSs. Newly formed laws and regulations, and the demand for more stringent regulation, will continue to increase the demand for certified CLSs for this position. Formal education and certification requirements are anticipated for RLT. The specialty is being incorporated in CLS training programs.
Baker
D J
DJ
Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington 40536-0003, USA. dbake0@pop.uky.edu
Paterson
M A
MA
D002321:Career Choice; D002568:Certification; D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques / Q000193:education; D003479:Curriculum; D006801:Humans; D007587:Job Description; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D017056:Medical Laboratory Personnel / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology; D012099:Reproductive Techniques; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States