Report from NITO BFI: Biomedical laboratory technicians – mainstay and shortage
Two out of three patient decisions are made on the basis of laboratory tests – but Norway lacks biomedical laboratory scientists. This report from NITO BFI shows why the crisis is real, and what is needed to solve it.
The shortage of medical laboratory technicians is felt in the health service
Biomedical laboratory technicians are essential for modern healthcare. They combine medical and technological expertise and are central to diagnostics and patient treatment. Nevertheless, it is difficult to recruit enough, and the shortage is felt in all health regions.
The need for biomedical laboratory technicians must be addressed
We are in a silent personnel crisis. A shortage of biomedical laboratory technicians means delays in diagnostics and treatment. The need for biomedical laboratory technicians must be raised on an equal footing with doctors and nurses. The report points to solutions and highlights the role of biomedical laboratory technicians in the health sector.
The report has been prepared by NITO BFI and provides insight into the biomedical laboratory scientists' everyday life and challenges in Norwegian hospitals.
Biomedical laboratory technicians – mainstay and scarce
Reasons for the shortage of biomedical laboratory technicians
- Too few study places and low completion rates in the programmes
- Increased burden during the pandemic
- Many retirements
- More biomedical laboratory technicians are leaving the health service
