May 1, 2023
Survey Report: Shortage of Genetics Medical Laboratory Technologists Causing Delays in Cancer Diagnosis
The incidence of cancer has increased every year since 1984 and rates continue to rise. In 2022, Cancer Care Ontario reported an expected 95,325 new cases of cancer, with the most diagnosed cancers being breast, lung, and prostate.1 Doctors rely on lab results to accurately diagnose, monitor, and provide a prognosis for every cancer patient. The challenge to hire new Genetics MLTs is becoming more prevalent which is having a detrimental effect on turnaround times and new test development across Ontario. There is a direct impact on cancer patients across Ontario whose diagnosis and treatment are delayed as they wait for lab results. An MLPAO survey shows that the shortage of Genetics MLTs is dire and needs to be addressed immediately.
See full report below.