Degree Name
EdD (Doctor of Education)
Program
Educational Leadership
Date of Award
8-2026
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Don Good
Committee Members
Susan Epps, Paul Garton
Abstract
Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLSs) are vital yet often overlooked members of the healthcare team. This study investigated perceptions of MLSs among students in medicine, pharmacy, and nursing programs. Grounded in professional identity theory and literature on interprofessional stereotypes, the study utilized a quantitative survey distributed to 1,113 students, with 71 responses analyzed. Nine research questions explored differences in perceptions of MLSs’ professional practice, scope of practice, entry requirements, value as team members, and consultative roles. Results indicate students generally value MLSs as members of the healthcare team and acknowledge their contributions to patient care; however, their understanding is frequently restricted to technical laboratory functions. Awareness of MLSs’ consultative and managerial roles was minimal, and students rarely viewed MLSs as resources for consultation. These findings reinforce the notion of medical laboratory science as a “hidden profession,” with implications for professional identity formation and interprofessional collaboration. The study highlights the need for intentional curricular integration and interprofessional education to foster accurate perceptions of MLSs’ expertise and promote collaborative practice. Addressing these challenges is essential for strengthening MLSs’ professional identity, enhancing recruitment, and optimizing healthcare team performance.
Document Type
Dissertation - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Williamson, Thomas W., "Health Professions Students’ Perceptions of Medical Laboratory Scientists: Professional Practice and Scope of Practice" (2026). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 4741. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/4741
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.
