MLTs and MLA/Ts both play critical roles in the lab, but their qualifications and responsibilities differ significantly. Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) are regulated healthcare professionals under the College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario (CMLTO) (www.cmlto.com). They undergo extensive, full-time education for three years in an accredited Medical Laboratory Science program, gaining deep expertise in various scientific disciplines. MLTs perform complex diagnostic tests and often specialize in areas such as molecular genetics, pathology, and blood transfusion labs. Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technicians (MLA/Ts) complete 8-10 months of post-secondary education and serve in pre-analytical roles such as sample collection, data entry, and specimen processing. While MLA/Ts are not regulated, the MLPAO certification ensures they are highly skilled to support laboratories across urban and rural Ontario. Together, MLTs and MLA/Ts form the backbone of diagnostic testing, playing a vital role in patient care across the healthcare system.