Diploma in Biomedical Technology

The qualifying learner will be able to perform and organize laboratory operations in clinical diagnostic laboratories and related fields in compliance with statutory requirements for ethics, safety and quality assurance. Supervisory, management and research skills are developed.

Individuals who want to become registered Medical Technologists will work in a registered Medical training laboratory. After registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), they may work in government, private and research health care laboratories. To practice independently as a Medical Technologist 2 years' post-registration experience is required. Unregistered Biomedical Technologists may work in non-diagnostic laboratories.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Access may be gained to the qualification through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The qualification will be awarded to a learner who has provided evidence to the satisfaction of the assessors that the stated competence of the qualification, as detailed in the specified outcomes, has been achieved, either through education and training in a single provider`s learning programme, or by a combination of formal and informal learning, and work experience.

Entry Requirements

• National Senior Certificate/ Senior Certificate/Further Education and Training Certificate (FETC), NQF Level 4.

Or

• National Higher Certificate, Level 5 in the field of Biomedical Technology an equivalent qualification.

1. Select and perform routine and specialized clinical diagnostic techniques in specified disciplines in accordance with statutory requirements through application of knowledge of principles of techniques and instruments, physiological and pathophysiological conditions (Haematology, Microbiology, Clinical Chemistry, Cellular Pathology) in the place of study, workplace or both.
2. Perform and monitor Quality Assurance procedures within predetermined limits:

• Footnote: Underpinned by ethics, safety and communication.
• The learners are competent in Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs).

3. Manage resources efficiently and effectively

• Footnote: Underpinned by ethics, safety and communication.
• The learners are competent in SOPs-Standard Operating Procedures.

4. Participate in research in Medical Technology in compliance with ethical research principles

• Footnote: Underpinned by ethics, safety and communication.

1.1. Specimens are assessed for suitability for tests requested

• Routine and specified specialized media, stains, solutions and reagents are prepared according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Specimens are analysed using appropriate SOPs and Quality Control procedures.
• Principles, methods and application of different SOPs are correctly described.

1.2. Results are recorded and compared with established reference ranges and/or appropriate control specimens

• Accurate data capturing and retrieval skills are demonstrated electronically and manually.
• Laboratory results are evaluated through correlation of data in the context of the principles, techniques and instruments used.
• Factors that affect procedures and test results are recognized and appropriate action taken.
• Laboratory results are evaluated through correlation of data with physiological and pathological conditions.

2.1. Principles of Quality Assurance are explained and applied in the context of the tests performed

• Quality Control results and Quality Assurance data are evaluated and interpreted and appropriate action is taken.
• SOPs are assessed, reviewed and updated where necessary.

2.2. Instruments are monitored for efficient functioning and appropriate action is taken when necessary.

• Corrective and preventive maintenance of equipment is performed.

3.1. An appropriate budget for the laboratory is drawn up and explained and implemented.

3.2. Appropriate legislation is explained and implemented

• Appropriate training programmes for staff and Continuing Professional Development programmes are developed and implemented.
• Selection, recruitment and interview techniques are demonstrated.

3.3. Mechanisms for stock control are applied

• Economic viability of instruments and methods are evaluated.
• Effective utilization of laboratory space is demonstrated taking into account physical constraints, safety, personnel equipment and the provision of service.

4.1. Changes in methodology and disease profiles in clinical diagnostic laboratories are identified and investigated.

• Appropriate information is selected from relevant sources.
• Information is collated, analysed, synthesized and presented in a coherent and scientific manner including statistical and graphical methods.

4.2. Information is accessed, organized and presented using appropriate Information Technology.

Integrated Assessment

• Workplace evaluation by peers and supervisors.
• Assignments.
• Written tests.
• Work schedule evaluations.
• Projects in teams.
• Reports on tasks and projects.

Summative Assessment

• Workplace evaluation by supervisors.
• Project reports.
• Oral presentations.
• Interviews.
• Written and practical examinations.