Medical Laboratory Profession Calls on Alberta Party Leaders to make Health Care a Priority during Alberta Election

HAMILTON, ON, April 10, 2012 /CNW/ - As Alberta's party leaders prepare for this week's televised debate, the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) is calling on them to make health care a key priority during the election.

Canada's medical laboratory professionals hope that the Alberta leaders' debate will provide an opportunity for party leaders to expand upon their plan for health care in the province, and more specifically outline their plan for the medical laboratory profession.

"As a group, we represent the fourth largest health care profession in Canada," states CSMLS Executive Director, Christine Nielsen.  "Medical laboratory professionals play an incredibly vital role in Canada's health care system.  Doctors depend on laboratory test results to accurately diagnose and treat illness, and monitor patient health."

A critical link within the medical laboratory profession's national scope, Alberta's medical laboratory professionals are key factors in helping to protect patient safety within the province's health care system.  The province can play an important role in collaborating with the federal government and other provinces, and demonstrate leadership for medical laboratory professionals.

CSMLS urges the party leaders to focus on the critical health human resource needs for the medical laboratory profession.  These include addressing the serious shortage of medical laboratory technologists, the requirement for sustainable investments to support clinical placements and education, and dedicated support for those medical laboratory professionals working in rural and northern communities.

"There is no doubt that health care is a top priority issue for Albertans," adds Nielsen.  "During this election campaign, there is a prime opportunity to make tangible commitments for health care and our profession.  Through bold leadership and collaboration, we can ensure that Canada's health care system and patient safety are not compromised."

The Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) is the national certifying body for medical laboratory technologists and medical laboratory assistants, and the national professional society for Canada's medical laboratory professionals. Incorporated in 1937, CSMLS has more than 14,000 members.

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