Published 12th December, 2023.
Australian Paramedical College (APC) have connected with Australian Clinical Labs to offer pathology pathways for our Diploma graduates. If you’re interested in learning how, make sure to read on!
Who is Australian Clinical Labs?
Established in 2015, Australian Clinical Labs stands as a leading private pathology provider in Australia. With a workforce exceeding 3,000 employees, they conduct over 12 million episodes annually.
Australian Clinical Labs is proud to service 90+ public and private hospitals across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory. To find the nearest location to you, click here.
Australian Clinical Labs offers pathology tests, advanced molecular genetic testing, harmony NIPT and first-trimester screening and more.
Why consider a career in pathology?
In a 2016 survey, the majority of 400 pathologists reported finding their careers interesting and indicated that they were well compensated. With this in mind, let’s delve into why a career in pathology could be great for you, having studied at APC.*
*Source: ScienceDirect (2023)
Pathology is a growing industry, being part of the “Health Care and Social Assistance” industry. Projected to achieve a 41.8% industry growth between 2021 and 2025*, employing over 301,000 employees. Much like all careers in healthcare, pathology is a rewarding career that places you face-to-face with patients in blood and specimen collection roles, making a difference in their lives. Australian Clinical Labs’ tests serve purposes beyond basic health checks; they diagnose conditions, screen for diseases, and even assess future disease risks.**
*Source: Labour Insights (2023), **Source: Chisholm (2023)
How can I become a Pathologist?
It is important to note that Pathologists study for a minimum of 13 years to hold their title in Australia. APC’s HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care graduates will not hold this title however, can apply for blood collection roles, provided that they meet employment criteria and pass the relevant screening.
To become a pathologist, a minimum of the following steps needs to be completed:*
- Graduate with a Pre-Medical Bachelors degree
- Study a Doctor of Osteopathy or Medical Doctor degree
- Complete a 12-month internship
- Conduct 1-3 year long residency
- Finalise speciality training with a pathologist
*Source: Know Pathology (2023)
How do I become a Pathology Collector/Phlebotomist?
If a career in pathology interests you, a HLT37215 – Certificate III in Pathology Collection is typically required to explore this career pathway. Conducted over 6-12 months, the qualification equips students with practical skills to draw blood, administer first aid and more.
Fortunately, APC students who have studied the HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care, can apply for positions within Australian Clinical Labs, in support of the growing demand for phlebotomists within Australia without holding the above-listed Cert III.
Successful individuals will be supported through a 4-8 week-long training session with an Australian Clinical Labs mentor.
This opportunity offers individuals a valuable pathway to acquire transferable skills applicable to future health-related studies. Alternatively, it can be the perfect first step to take for a rewarding career in pathology.
APC’s HLT41120 – Certificate IV in Health Care and HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care students in NSW after completing Clinical Workshop 1.
Apply for a career with Australian Clinical Labs
If you’re already an APC graduate and wish to pursue a career with Australian Clinical Labs, click here. You’ll be taken to a careers page which will show you any current openings the team has, so feel free to apply!
Start studying at APC
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in pathology and emergency healthcare at the same time, APC’s HLT51020 – Diploma of Emergency Health Care could be the perfect course for you.
Self-paced, online and flexible are just three of the positives that APC offers individuals who enrol. You can study at your own pace, in your own time and from the comfort of your own home, only needing to come to APC’s training facilities located in QLD, WA, NSW or VIC for your Clinical Workshops, and Clinical Placement can be conducted close to home!
To see if we’re the right fit for you and your career needs, click the link here to apply today and speak to one of our friendly Course Advisors.
