Is certification and licensing the same thing? In one word, no. While the two terms are often used interchangeably, there is a significant difference between the two, especially when it comes to the practise of medical laboratory science in Canada.
Certification of medical laboratory professionals is one of the major reasons that today’s CSMLS exists and the only reason it was formed in 1937. The certification exams that we administer are competency based exams that test the understanding of skills required and proper use of acquired knowledge to practice medical laboratory technology in Canada. CSMLS certification standards and policies are the responsibility of the Professional Standards Council (PSC), which consists of members from each provincial regulatory body. If there is no regulatory body, the provincial association is represented. The recommendations made by the PSC are then presented for approval by the CSMLS Board of Directors.
Licensing, on the other hand, is when you are given permission by an authority to practise within a particular set of rules and circumstances. In Canada, we are fortunate to have the majority of our provinces and territories regulated. In these provinces, entry to practice requirements for medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) are set by the regulatory body. It is their responsibility to ensure that only MLTs competent in the field of medical laboratory technology are granted a license. The CSMLS certification exam is set as the entry to practice for all regulated provinces with the exception of Quebec. Some regulatory bodies have also gone a step further and have chosen to make membership with CSMLS a condition of licensure. Currently, MLTs are the only medical laboratory professionals that are regulated but the regulation of medical laboratory assistants (MLAs) is on the horizon. Though several provinces are interested in MLA regulation, it is not yet in place in any jurisdiction in Canada. In the absence of regulation, standards are set by the employer.
Another difference between MLT certification and licensure is that you are required to achieve a set number of work hours and continuing education within a particular time frame to maintain your license. CSMLS certification is currently a one-time event; there is no requirement for maintenance of certification. However, we strongly encourage you maintain your membership with CSMLS to demonstrate your commitment to your chosen career and to take advantage of our member benefits.
License: a permission granted by competent authority to engage in a business or occupation or in an activity otherwise unlawful
Certify: to recognize as having met special qualifications (as of a governmental agency or professional board) within a field
Reference: Merriam-Webster.com. Merriam-Webster, n.d. Web