5 answers
Ruveyda
Student
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
4
Questions
Asked
760 views
Which career is better Occupational therapist or Medical Laboratory Technologist in Canada ?
I am studying Human Health Science (3rd year) which we learn more of anatomy and physiology also chemistry and biology. I am an introverted person however, I am a good team member and I like to interact with people but not for too long. And I want to have a chance to work part time or a flexible schedule. Also, I want to earn at least 70k annualy before tax because I will spend 2-3 more years studying to have a real job. Please let me know the pros and cons of these careers for Canada. Thank you 🙏
5 answers
Godfrey Magawe
Clinical officer nephrology
111
Answers
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
Updated
Godfrey’s Answer
Botha careers are good however it depends on what's one want to pursue,if you want work and purse scientific health research with working with tissues,cells and cultures then you better go for medical laboratory.However if you want to work with direct patient care to follow them up upto recover progress then occupational therapy would be the ideal fot you..
Occupational therapy are more of rehabilitative medicine that tries to bring back patients who are injured to regain their lost capacity either limb rehabilitation following fractured bones.
Patients undergoing OT also are trained on how to cope with none functional aspect of human body not necessary following an accident or injury.
It has a patient attachment aspect for a longer period unlike medical laboratory.
With knowledge of anatomy and physiology it would be ideal to pursue OT, however medical laboratory also requires such knowledge as you will be required to do phlebotomy work, tissues samples among other procedures.
Occupational therapy are more of rehabilitative medicine that tries to bring back patients who are injured to regain their lost capacity either limb rehabilitation following fractured bones.
Patients undergoing OT also are trained on how to cope with none functional aspect of human body not necessary following an accident or injury.
It has a patient attachment aspect for a longer period unlike medical laboratory.
With knowledge of anatomy and physiology it would be ideal to pursue OT, however medical laboratory also requires such knowledge as you will be required to do phlebotomy work, tissues samples among other procedures.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Ruveyda
Rosemarie Fitzsimons
Medical laboratory scientist
3
Answers
East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Updated
Rosemarie’s Answer
I am a medical technologist here in the US what I can tell you is that for a person who is more of an introvert and doesn’t like having too much interaction with people being a medical technologist will be a great career path! As for Occupational Therapy you will be dealing a lot with patients and working with them to improve on their health.
Medical technologist works behind the scenes and the work we do is what leads the physician to make a diagnosis.
Both careers are very good choices, I am not sure about Canada but here in the US you can be a medical technologist with a bachelor’s degree in some cases even with an associates in MLT however for occupational therapy I believe you need to have your masters before you can start working in the field! Please correct me if I am wrong! 😑
Good luck with your choice and I sure you would make the right decision!
Medical technologist works behind the scenes and the work we do is what leads the physician to make a diagnosis.
Both careers are very good choices, I am not sure about Canada but here in the US you can be a medical technologist with a bachelor’s degree in some cases even with an associates in MLT however for occupational therapy I believe you need to have your masters before you can start working in the field! Please correct me if I am wrong! 😑
Good luck with your choice and I sure you would make the right decision!
Thank you so much!
Ruveyda
Tori McCann
student of Occupational therapy
1
Answer
Kapolei, Hawaii
Updated
Tori’s Answer
Comparing Occupational Therapy and Medical Laboratory Technologist:
Occupational Therapy:
Requires a bachelor's degree followed by a master's or doctoral degree in occupational therapy.
Duration of fieldwork: Level 2 fieldwork for occupational therapist students is typically 12 weeks, 5 days a week, 40 hours per week.
National certification exam: Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) National Certification Examination.
Average salary in Canada: $60,000 to $90,000 CAD per year.
Medical Laboratory Technologist:
Requires a 2-3 year certificate program, with some programs offering bachelor's degrees.
Duration of clinical placements: Varies but generally ranges from several weeks to several months.
National certification exam: Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) exam.
Average salary in Canada: $50,000 to $80,000 CAD per year.
Occupational Therapy Classes:
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Psychology and Developmental Psychology
Therapeutic Techniques and Interventions
Assessment and Evaluation
Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice
Pediatrics
mental health
physical dysfunction
Medical Laboratory Technologist Classes:
Clinical Chemistry
Hematology
Microbiology
Immunology
Histotechnology
Laboratory Procedures and Techniques
Laboratory Safety
Medical Ethics and Professionalism
Occupational therapy: place they work
Hospitals
Rehabilitation Centers
Outpatient Clinics
Schools
Community Health Centers
Skilled Nursing Facilities
Home Health Care
Private Practice
Government Agencies
Research and Academic Institutions
mental health hospitals
prisons
Population type they work with Occupational therapy:
Pediatrics ( Autism, ADHD , cerebral palsy and other conditions)
Geriatric
mental health population (
physical dysfunction ( stroke, Parkinson's, traumatic brain injury and other conditions)
Medical Laboratory Technologist places they work:
Hospitals:
Diagnostic Laboratories:
Research Laboratories:
Public Health Laboratories:
Face-to-Face Patient Interaction:
Occupational therapy:
typically have a significant amount of face-to-face interaction with their patients.
Conduct initial evaluations
Provide treatment sessions
Educate and train clients
Offer counseling and support
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams
Medical Laboratory Technologists:
Limited face-to-face interaction compared to direct patient care professions like OTs.
May interact with patients during phlebotomy, specimen collection instructions, and patient education in certain settings.
Occupational Therapy:
Requires a bachelor's degree followed by a master's or doctoral degree in occupational therapy.
Duration of fieldwork: Level 2 fieldwork for occupational therapist students is typically 12 weeks, 5 days a week, 40 hours per week.
National certification exam: Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) National Certification Examination.
Average salary in Canada: $60,000 to $90,000 CAD per year.
Medical Laboratory Technologist:
Requires a 2-3 year certificate program, with some programs offering bachelor's degrees.
Duration of clinical placements: Varies but generally ranges from several weeks to several months.
National certification exam: Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) exam.
Average salary in Canada: $50,000 to $80,000 CAD per year.
Occupational Therapy Classes:
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Psychology and Developmental Psychology
Therapeutic Techniques and Interventions
Assessment and Evaluation
Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice
Pediatrics
mental health
physical dysfunction
Medical Laboratory Technologist Classes:
Clinical Chemistry
Hematology
Microbiology
Immunology
Histotechnology
Laboratory Procedures and Techniques
Laboratory Safety
Medical Ethics and Professionalism
Occupational therapy: place they work
Hospitals
Rehabilitation Centers
Outpatient Clinics
Schools
Community Health Centers
Skilled Nursing Facilities
Home Health Care
Private Practice
Government Agencies
Research and Academic Institutions
mental health hospitals
prisons
Population type they work with Occupational therapy:
Pediatrics ( Autism, ADHD , cerebral palsy and other conditions)
Geriatric
mental health population (
physical dysfunction ( stroke, Parkinson's, traumatic brain injury and other conditions)
Medical Laboratory Technologist places they work:
Hospitals:
Diagnostic Laboratories:
Research Laboratories:
Public Health Laboratories:
Face-to-Face Patient Interaction:
Occupational therapy:
typically have a significant amount of face-to-face interaction with their patients.
Conduct initial evaluations
Provide treatment sessions
Educate and train clients
Offer counseling and support
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams
Medical Laboratory Technologists:
Limited face-to-face interaction compared to direct patient care professions like OTs.
May interact with patients during phlebotomy, specimen collection instructions, and patient education in certain settings.
Thanks for the advice.
Ruveyda
And what do you think that I am more compatible with which career?
Ruveyda
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6075
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Ruveyda,
Occupational Therapist vs. Medical Laboratory Technologist in Canada
When comparing the career paths of an Occupational Therapist (OT) and a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) in Canada, there are several factors to consider based on your background, preferences, and career goals.
Occupational Therapist:
Pros:
Patient Interaction: As an OT, you will work closely with patients to help them improve their daily living skills and quality of life.
Flexibility: OTs often have the flexibility to work in various settings such as hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, or even start their own private practice.
Rewarding Career: Being able to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives by helping them regain independence and function can be highly rewarding.
Competitive Salary: In Canada, occupational therapists can earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 CAD.
Cons:
Emotional Demands: Working with patients who may be facing physical or mental challenges can be emotionally taxing.
Continuing Education: OTs are required to engage in ongoing professional development to maintain licensure and stay current with best practices.
Medical Laboratory Technologist:
Pros:
Analytical Work: MLTs perform laboratory tests and analyses, playing a crucial role in diagnosing diseases and monitoring patient health.
Less Patient Interaction: If you prefer working behind the scenes rather than directly with patients, this role may be more suitable for you.
Stable Job Market: There is a growing demand for MLTs in Canada due to an aging population and advancements in medical technology.
Salary Potential: The median annual salary for MLTs in Canada is around $70,000 CAD.
Cons:
Repetitive Tasks: Some aspects of the job may involve routine tasks such as sample processing and analysis.
Strict Deadlines: Working in a laboratory setting often comes with strict deadlines for test results delivery.
Potential Exposure to Hazards: MLTs may be exposed to infectious materials or hazardous chemicals while handling samples.
Based on your background in Human Health Science and your preferences for part-time work and a minimum annual salary of $70,000 before tax, both careers could align with your criteria. However, considering your introverted nature and desire for flexibility, pursuing a career as an Occupational Therapist might offer more opportunities for varied work environments and patient interaction while still meeting your financial goals.
Ultimately, it’s essential to further research each profession, possibly shadow professionals in both fields, and consider which aligns best with your skills, interests, and long-term career aspirations.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT): This organization provides valuable insights into the occupational therapy profession in Canada, including information on education requirements, job outlook, and salary expectations.
Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS): The CSMLS offers resources on the role of Medical Laboratory Technologists in Canada, certification processes, professional development opportunities, and industry trends.
Government of Canada Job Bank - Occupational Therapists & Medical Laboratory Technologists Profiles: The Job Bank provides up-to-date data on job descriptions, salaries, job prospects, and educational requirements for both Occupational Therapists and Medical Laboratory Technologists across various regions in Canada.
GOD BLESS YOU, RICHLY, JC.
Occupational Therapist vs. Medical Laboratory Technologist in Canada
When comparing the career paths of an Occupational Therapist (OT) and a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) in Canada, there are several factors to consider based on your background, preferences, and career goals.
Occupational Therapist:
Pros:
Patient Interaction: As an OT, you will work closely with patients to help them improve their daily living skills and quality of life.
Flexibility: OTs often have the flexibility to work in various settings such as hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, or even start their own private practice.
Rewarding Career: Being able to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives by helping them regain independence and function can be highly rewarding.
Competitive Salary: In Canada, occupational therapists can earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 CAD.
Cons:
Emotional Demands: Working with patients who may be facing physical or mental challenges can be emotionally taxing.
Continuing Education: OTs are required to engage in ongoing professional development to maintain licensure and stay current with best practices.
Medical Laboratory Technologist:
Pros:
Analytical Work: MLTs perform laboratory tests and analyses, playing a crucial role in diagnosing diseases and monitoring patient health.
Less Patient Interaction: If you prefer working behind the scenes rather than directly with patients, this role may be more suitable for you.
Stable Job Market: There is a growing demand for MLTs in Canada due to an aging population and advancements in medical technology.
Salary Potential: The median annual salary for MLTs in Canada is around $70,000 CAD.
Cons:
Repetitive Tasks: Some aspects of the job may involve routine tasks such as sample processing and analysis.
Strict Deadlines: Working in a laboratory setting often comes with strict deadlines for test results delivery.
Potential Exposure to Hazards: MLTs may be exposed to infectious materials or hazardous chemicals while handling samples.
Based on your background in Human Health Science and your preferences for part-time work and a minimum annual salary of $70,000 before tax, both careers could align with your criteria. However, considering your introverted nature and desire for flexibility, pursuing a career as an Occupational Therapist might offer more opportunities for varied work environments and patient interaction while still meeting your financial goals.
Ultimately, it’s essential to further research each profession, possibly shadow professionals in both fields, and consider which aligns best with your skills, interests, and long-term career aspirations.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT): This organization provides valuable insights into the occupational therapy profession in Canada, including information on education requirements, job outlook, and salary expectations.
Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS): The CSMLS offers resources on the role of Medical Laboratory Technologists in Canada, certification processes, professional development opportunities, and industry trends.
Government of Canada Job Bank - Occupational Therapists & Medical Laboratory Technologists Profiles: The Job Bank provides up-to-date data on job descriptions, salaries, job prospects, and educational requirements for both Occupational Therapists and Medical Laboratory Technologists across various regions in Canada.
GOD BLESS YOU, RICHLY, JC.
Martin Schoen
APRN
279
Answers
Ocala, Florida
Updated
Martin’s Answer
Sure, I can help with that, but I'm more familiar with the U.S. situation than Canada's. However, I believe the roles would be pretty much the same in both countries. As an Occupational Therapist, you'd have the chance to interact directly with patients, while as a technologist, you'd be more focused on handling equipment. It really comes down to what makes you happy, as both jobs offer good pay. Personally, I'd rather spend my day helping people than analyzing different chemical levels in a lab.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Ruveyda
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