Medical technology is the field of health care that conducts clinical laboratory tests to help the physician to detect, diagnose, treat, and prevent disease.  Tests on body fluids, tissues, and cells are performed with the use of  microscopes, computers, and automated instruments.

Medical laboratory technicians perform general clinical laboratory tests in all areas of the clinical laboratory. MLTs may analyze the chemical content of body fluids, including blood, urine, and spinal fluid to determine blood type and to detect infectious organisms and cancer antibodies. They act as scientific investigators, tracking down clues to possible diseases.