Patient Care Impacted by Delay in Laboratory Testing

The MLPAO conducted a survey of our members in January 2024 working within labs across Ontario to assess the impact of MLT staffing shortages on patient care. The MLT shortage is having significant negative impacts on patient care. With over 300+ MLT vacancies across Ontario and 39% of MLTs approaching retirement , the MLT storage will only intensify, and patient care will further deteriorate.

The volume of work in 88% of Ontario labs has increased since the pandemic and labs are struggling to keep pace with the workload. In addition to being short-staffed, and the over 300+ MLT vacancies, 39% will be eligible to retire within the next couple of years. This is not sustainable; the fallout of the MLT shortage can result in patient harm and will worsen if MLT shortages continue.

Please see full report below.