TO DISPEL THE MYTHS about LICENSURE:

NO additional test other than a nationally recognized certification exam is required. The CEs used to maintain certification also satisfy the CE requirement of state licensure. ALL laboratorians that have been working 3 out of the last 5 years are "grandfathered in" even without certification.

WHY SHOULD YOU SUPPORT THE BILL and SIGN THE PETITION?

Licensed healthcare professionals of Texas are included in recruitment/retention initiatives, shortage data collection, loan forgiveness, scholarship/stipends through federal and state programs. Laboratorians are not included because we are not licensed.

This bill will mandate minimum standards for competency and education for MLS/MLTs to work in Texas. The bill also prevents felons from other states from being licensed in Texas. Licensure provides penalties for negligence and illegal laboratory practices. Currently, someone can omit from their application that they have been fired for gross negligence. This is a dangerous and costly practice. Currently, high school graduates with minimal training and no certification can perform moderately complex medical laboratory tests. Inaccurate results from non-qualified individuals increase health care costs and decrease the quality of patient care. Professional pride in being a licensed healthcare professional is a bonus.

Licensure is good for labs, the profession, and public health. Sign the petition today!