2010 ANNUAL REPORT - CMLTA

ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL
LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS
2010 ANNUAL REPORT
1

Table of Contents
3 President and
Executive Director Message
4 Public Members’ Report
5 College Foundation Policies
6 College Council and Staff
7 Structural and Functional
Organization Charts
8 Governance
9 Registration of College Members
13 Continuing Competence Program
17 Complaints and Discipline
18 Other Activities
19 Financial Information
2

President and Executive Director Message
Upon reflection, 2010 was a year marked by change as
is customary for regulatory health care Colleges. Many
changes were compelled by government and legislation,
such as the Health Information Act amendments, the
Ministers Advisory Committee on Health recommendations,
and the Foreign Qualification Recognition Plan (FQR
Plan). However, there were also internal changes driven
by the shift in the Alberta College of Medical Laboratory
Technologists (College) Council to focus primarily on a
culture of regulatory commitments and a less prominent
focus on member services, or those services offered by
member-based organizations.
In relation to government changes, of particular note for
the College is the advancement of the FQR Plan. The
FQR Plan was launched in November 2008 and Medical
Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) were one of eight targeted
professions selected to meet the Pan-Canadian framework
criteria by December 31, 2010. This framework for foreign
qualification recognition is principle-based (practices must
be fair, transparent, timely, and consistent), collaborative,
and results-focused.
The College has long partnered with our national
certification body, the Canadian Society for Medical
Laboratory Science (CSMLS) to evaluate and assess the
professional portfolio of Internationally Educated Medical
Laboratory Technologists (IEMLTs). The Prior Learning
Assessment process (PLA) established by the CSMLS in
1999 has been adopted nationally and provides a single
point of access for the standardized assessment of
academic credentials, language proficiency, clinical training,
and work experience. The CSMLS has also made significant
advancements to provide immigrants tools to aid in their
integration into the Canadian workforce. For example,
individuals are permitted to initiate the PLA process from
their home country, the creation of a loan library program,
the development of an online self-assessment tool for
readiness, and research on language assessment tools and
benchmarks necessary for success of IEMLTs. The new
reporting requirement for the College is contained in the
Registration Report on page 10.
The College has worked closely with Alberta Employment
and Immigration to ensure IEMLTs have access to current,
accurate, and understandable information about the
College and the process for MLT registration in the
province. MLT fact sheets are posted on the Alberta-
Canada Immigration web portal and can be viewed at
www.alberta-canada.com/immigration/working/
occupations-regulated-professions.html.
A second area of considerable change and discussion in
2010 for College Council was the topic of “dual agency”
or the combined role of a regulatory body and an
association. This dual role was assumed by the College
when it morphed from the Alberta Society of Medical
Laboratory Technologists to the Alberta College of Medical
Laboratory Technologists in 2002 pursuant to the Health
Professions Act. College Council endeavoured to fulfill
its newly acquired public-interest functions of enforcing
registration standards, monitoring continuing competence,
and adjudicating complaints of unprofessional conduct
while trying to balance the expectations members had of
their former society. Each year it has become increasingly
difficult to maintain the delicate ethical and moral balance
between the sometimes competing interests of the
members and the public. Self-regulation is a privilege
granted by government and it is based on the premise that
determining the qualifications to ensure a practitioner is
practicing safely, competently, and ethically is best done
by other members of that profession. However, there is
increasing concern by government and the public that
professions are self-interested and regulate considering the
interests of their fellow professionals rather than the best
interests of the public. Furthermore, there are increasing
financial costs associated with investigations and hearing
tribunals in complaints of unprofessional conduct which
necessitates the movement of the College towards a
strictly regulatory organization with limited human and
financial resources remaining for member services. In the
other regulated provinces across the country, MLTs have
created associations and societies independent from
their regulatory College to promote and advance their
self-interests. Is there the potential for the creation of an
Alberta society.......only time will tell?
The contents of this Annual Report have developed under
the direction of and approved by College Council. The
information and data contained in the Annual Report is
reflective of College activities from January 1 to December
31, 2010 inclusive.
This report can be viewed or downloaded from the
College website at www.acmlt.org under Member Access
> Publications > 2010 Annual Report or a copy may be
requested at info@acmlt.org.
Darcy Gara, MLT
College 2010 President
Lori Kmet, MLT, BSc (MLS), MBA
Executive Director/Registrar/
Complaints Director
3

Public Members’ Report
Members of the Alberta College of Medical Laboratory
Technologists (College) are well versed in the challenges
facing Alberta’s healthcare system. Whether it is
centralization of administration, operational transformation,
or the adage of “do more, with less”, any change
contributes to the complex nature of providing patients
with excellent health care. In conjunction with elected
College Council members, the College’s governmentappointed
Public Members have taken an active role in
reviewing and responding to initiatives put forth by Alberta
Health Services and Alberta Health and Wellness.
In addition to our governance role on the College
Council, Alberta’s Public Members have an additional
responsibility to support public safety and protection by
observing, questioning, and challenging issues related to
the regulation of Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs)
and to ensure public accountability and consultation on all
relevant matters. We have been impressed with the efforts
made by the College to promote patient safety within
the membership by fostering a culture of awareness and
professionalism for all medical laboratory professionals,
including MLTs and Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs).
Moving forward, our College’s 2400 MLTs need to continue
to pursue improvements to quality patient care and
to demonstrate a strong commitment to professional
excellence. We are inspired by the many volunteers who
already give so willingly of their time and energy to support
the profession; however, more MLTs are needed to serve on
Council and committees. There is never a better time than
right now for members to step forward and take an active
role in the College and its future.
Another focus for excellence must be a commitment to
support refinement and continuous improvement of the
Continuing Competence Program (CCP), which sets out a
process to ensure every laboratory professional meets the
standards of practice that will ensure public and personal
safety. MLT expertise and involvement is paramount to
incorporate developing and advancing fields in laboratory
medicine where the MLT skill set is necessary and the
CCP is reflective of this. MLTs are indeed fortunate and
privileged to be able to directly monitor their professional
development and practice, and set and maintain high
standards for the profession.
Finally, the shortage of qualified professionals remains a
great threat to patient safety. We must identify innovative
means to attract young people, ensure the training is
relevant, the work is fulfilling, and the compensation is
competitive. Once individuals join the profession, we
need to help them remain committed by allowing them
to experience realistic challenges, encouraging them to
grow, inviting them to share their skills and potential, and
mentoring them in career advancement.
Without question, the College and its membership have
dedicated themselves to the task of providing excellent
health care to Albertans and we acknowledge the high
quality we have observed.
As Public Members, we can attest MLTs, MLAs, other health
care professionals, and indeed, the general public are well
served by Council, members, and staff of the College. We
commend our colleagues for their endeavours.
Barry Finkelman Kenneth Gall Victor Fernandez
Public Member Jan – Mar 2010 Public Member 2010 Public Member 2010
4

College Foundation Policies
Vision
The Alberta College of Medical Laboratory Technologists is a recognized leader
in the regulation and governance of healthcare services. As a trusted partner in
healthcare regulation, the College enhances safety and public protection for all
Albertans, and fosters pride and professionalism among its members.
Mission
To ensure public protection through the regulation of Medical Laboratory
Technologists and to provide leadership for the advancement of the profession.
Core Values
Integrity – We adhere to the
College’s Code of Conduct.
Commitment – We are dedicated to
providing excellent service.
Accountability – We take
responsibility for our actions.
Respect – We treat others with
fairness and dignity.
Sustainability – We exercise
responsible resource management.
Openness – We are accessible,
approachable, transparent, and clear
in our actions.
Innovation – We build on successful
ideas, and explore and implement new
ideas.
5

2010 College Council
Back Row: Ken Gall - Public Member,
Judy Welke, Mik Mousouliotis, Leila
Kipke, Dan Woods
Front Row: Christina Dixon – Past
President, Darcy Gara – President,
Myron Pilip – President Elect
Missing: Marlene Cairney, Victor
Fernandez – Public Member, Barry
Finkelman – Public Member, Melody
Montgomery, Dixie Nielson – MLA
Representative
2010 College Staff
Avaleen Petryk
Executive Assistant
Sharon Semeniuk
Finance Manager
Lori Kmet
Executive Director/
Registrar/Complaints
Director
Gloria Graham
Hearings Director
Larissa Fadish
Manager of
Professional Practice
and Competence/
Deputy Registrar
6

Structural Organizational Chart
Minister of Health
Regulated Member
Resource List
Health Professions Act
MLT Regulation
COLLEGE
COUNCIL
Legislation
Sub-Committee
Competence Committee
Registration Committee
Executive Director / Registrar
Complaints Director / Privacy Officer
Hearings Director
Executive Assistant
Manager of Professional Practice and
Competence / Deputy Registrar
Finance Manager
Functional Organizational Chart
MEMBERSHIP
COLLEGE
PUBLIC
9 Elected COUNCILORS
1 Appointed MED LAB
ASSISTANT
COUNCIL
College Bylaws, Policies, Procedures
Executive Director / Registrar
Complaints Director / Privacy Officer
3 Appointed PUBLIC COUNCILORS
Hearings Director
Executive Assistant
Manager of Professional Practice and
Competence / Deputy Registrar
Finance Manager
Admin Support
Registration
Database
College Publications
College Website
Continuing
Competence Program
Professional
Development Program
Membership
Registration
Payroll
Accounts Payable /
Receivable
Benefits Program
Finance Audit
7

Governance
College Council manages and conducts the activities of
the College and exercises its rights, powers, duties, and
privileges to ensure regulatory compliance in all matters.
The 2010 College Council was comprised of the president,
president-elect, past-president, nine elected councilors,
three public members as appointed by the government in
accordance with the Health Professions Act (HPA), and a
Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) representative as an
advisor to Council on MLA-related matters. The Legislation
Sub-committee comprised of five regulated members
including the president-elect and past-president, reviewed
and recommended revisions to College Bylaws and policies
in consultation with the Executive Director/Registrar and
legal counsel for College Council approval. The following
regulatory changes occurred in 2010:
• College Council approved changes to the Substantial
Equivalency route to MLT registration application
requirements
• College Bylaws were amended and approved by the
membership at the 2010 Annual General Meeting in
September
In March 2008, the College submitted a proposal to the
provincial government for revisions to the restricted
activities list in the Government Organization Act (GOA).
Laboratory medicine, like other health disciplines, has
become increasingly complex over the last ten years since
restricted activities were first drafted. This document
highlighted a list of specific restricted activities to be
added to the GOA and the MLT Profession Regulation,
including reporting an ABO blood group for the purposes
of transfusion or transplantation; performing and reporting
manual cell identification of fixed cell samples and
cerebral spinal fluid samples; selecting appropriate and/
or representative tissue or cell samples for investigation;
reporting antibiotic susceptibility; drawing venous blood;
and the addition of a definition for reporting (to release a
test result verbally, electronically, or in writing to another
health care professional for the purposes of patient
diagnosis or treatment). The government had tentatively
planned stakeholder working group sessions for early 2010,
but these discussions have not occurred.
In January 2008, the College submitted a proposal to the
provincial government for the regulation of MLAs. This
report was prepared by the MLA Regulation Steering
Committee as per sections 25 and 26 of the HPA. The
College position stated the designation of MLAs as a
category of medical professionals served the interests
of public protection and safety. Feedback and direction
was pending at the close of 2010 as the government was
in the process of creating a general policy to guide the
regulation of all assistants under the HPA. Until this policy
was in place, the government would not review the College
proposal, and would not seek direction from the Minister
regarding regulation of MLAs under the HPA.
8

Registration of College Members
The College annual practice permit renewal process
was in its fifth year running concurrently with the
annual submission of documents in compliance with the
Continuing Competence Program (CCP). The College
renewal process is on-line and as a result captures
membership demographics for both Alberta Health and
Wellness and their Alberta Provider Directory (ABPD)
Source Uptake Project and the Canadian Institute of Health
Information (CIHI) as part of their Health Human Resources
Databases Development Project (HHRDDP) which includes
MLTs from across Canada. The HHRDDP addresses
information gaps through the development of national,
supply-based databases and reporting systems for five
regulated health professions, including Medical Laboratory
Technologists, Pharmacists, Physiotherapists, Medical
Radiation Technologists, and Occupational Therapists.
The effective management of health human resources
requires access to accurate, comparable, and timely data
on medical professionals; therefore, the College invested a
significant amount of resources in 2010 to further modify
the existing database, including the on-line annual practice
permit renewal process to capture additional demographic,
educational, geographical, and employment information.
The following table summarizes registration data from the 2010 membership year.
Description/Register Number Explanation
Full Standing Regulated MLT Practice Permits
· General MLT Register
· Diagnostic Cytology Register
· Clinical Genetics Register
· Provisional Register
· Courtesy Register (Canadian Blood Services pandemic workload)
2195
109
39
(47)
4
May be included on the Full Standing Register
Conditional Practice Permits (18) May be included on the Full Standing Register
Substantial Equivalence (SE) Route to MLT Registration
· Applicants approved with practicing restrictions
· Applicants denied
· Applications in process
· Applications withdrawn
Voluntary Members
· Associate
· Retired
· MLA
7
0
2
0
37
20
136
Honorary Members 0
Initial Applicants 100 May include new grads, out of province, out of country
New Graduates 69
Reinstatements
(individuals returning after a one year or more absence)
19 May include out of province, out of country
Out of Province Applicants 15
Out of Country Applicants 10
TOTAL COLLEGE MEMBERS (includes full standing members,
conditional practice permits, successful SE applicants,
voluntary members, and honorary members)
2610
Registration Application Decision Appeals to Council 0
9

The following table summarizes reasons for 2009 MLT practice permits not renewed for the 2010
membership year.
Description Number Explanation
Extended Leave 4 Educational, long term disability, etc.
Cancelled 96 No communication, no payment of annual dues
Left the MLT Work Environment 14
Moved 20 Moved out of province or country
Retired 21
Deceased 0
TOTAL 155
The following table summarizes age demographic data from the 2010 membership year
and also includes historical data highlighting trends in the medical laboratory profession
(note: values are expressed as percentages).
AGES 20-29 AGES 30-39 AGES 40-49 AGES 50-54 AGES 55-59 AGES 60-70 TOTAL MLTs
2005 9 24 35 16 11 5 2267
2006 9 24 34 17 11 5 2351
2007 11 20 33 15 15 6 2358
2008 12 21 33 18 11 5 2394
2009 11 21 30 30 8 0 2443
2010 11 20 29 16 15 9 2416
Internationally Educated Medical Laboratory
Technologists Working in Alberta
There was a new reporting requirement in 2010 under the
Foreign Qualifications Recognition Plan (FQR Plan) for the
College to gather data on MLTs formally educated outside
of Canada. The College worked with Alberta Employment
and Immigration to develop a standardized reporting
template that would accurately capture key elements
related to the assessment and licensing of foreign-qualified
applicants or Internationally Educated Medical Laboratory
Technologists (IEMLTs). Various government departments,
such as Alberta Employment and Immigration and Alberta
Health and Wellness will use this data to support ongoing
improvements to the foreign qualification assessment
system for IEMLTs including:
• Identifying information resources and supports
on specific countries and qualifications that could
support professional regulatory organizations in the
assessment of foreign credentials;
• Developing appropriate “bridge to licensure”
programs to assist foreign-qualified applicants to
meet the standards in Alberta;
• Implementing strategic support services for
immigrants during the registration/licensing process;
and,
• Supporting a system-wide discussion and sharing
of information on best practices related to foreign
qualification assessment and approaches and
procedures.
10

Registration as an IEMLT in Alberta is a two-step process
which involves the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory
Science (CSMLS) and the regulatory College. Initially
IEMLTs are directed to the CSMLS to undergo a Prior
Learning Assessment (PLA) which involves the submission
of documentation and the assessment of academic
credentials, language proficiency, clinical training, and
work experience. Depending upon the length of time
an individual needs to obtain documentation (including
original transcripts from country of formal post-secondary
education), and the number of refresher courses required
to address outstanding competencies, the PLA process can
extend 2-3 years, averaging 18 months for most applicants.
Once an IEMLT has successfully completed the PLA and
is granted permission to challenge the CSMLS national
certification examination, he/she is eligible to apply for a
one-year Provisional Practice Permit with the College. Prior
to the expiry of this one-year period, an individual must
provide proof of CSMLS certification and 900 MLT hours
to the College, and upon receipt of this documentation an
individual will be upgraded to a full-standing MLT Practice
Permit. If an individual has successfully challenged the
CSMLS certification examination prior to applying for
registration with the College, he/she can apply for a oneyear
Conditional Practice Permit to obtain the 900 MLT
hours required in the initial registration year.
The following tables summarize data on IEMLTs and represent figures obtained from the CSMLS.
CSMLS data refers to 2010 applicants, but also includes those individuals who initiated the PLA
process preceding 2010 as the process usually spans multiple calendar years.
Country of Education
Egypt, Guyana, India, Iran, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines*, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Zaire
*Highest number of applicants.
Number of New Applications
Received in 2010
33
Total Number of Applications Open
(New and Ongoing)
20 applicants from 2010 (all require additional documentation to be forwarded to
assessment)
Total Number of Applications
Forwarded to Assessment
13 applicants from 2010 were assessed for the first-time
29 first-time assessment were processed (including ongoing applicants from
previous years)
40 applicants were reassessed (required coursework completion, appeal in process or
consideration of supplemental documentation, or reactivation of expired assessment)
Number of Applicants Meeting ALL
Requirements
1 applicant from 2010 deemed equivalent upon first assessment
35 applicants (upon completion of refresher courses) deemed equivalent upon
reassessment
Number of Applicants NOT
Meeting ALL Requirements
12 applicants from 2010 were required to complete refresher coursework
(did not meet educational standards and/or minimum work/clinical experience)
1 (of the 12 applicants) did not meet English language proficiency
28 of the 29 first-time assessments processed required refresher coursework
Number of Applicants Who Did NOT
Pass CSMLS Certification Examination
Number of Applicants Who Did Pass
CSMLS Certification Examination
prior to 2010 30 15 (three passed on first attempt)
2010 0 0
*Note: Applicants can challenge the CSMLS certification examination three times and are then required to complete a learning plan and
refresher coursework. Applicants can challenge the examination an additional three times. If an individual is unsuccessful in six attempts, he/
she must complete an accredited formal MLT training program of study from a recognized Canadian educational institution.
11

The following table summarizes College data regarding 2010 MLT Practice Permits issued to IEMLTs.
Number of
Applications
Registrations
Denied
Registrations
Approved
Full Standing
Registrations
Alternative Classes of
Registrations (Practice Permit)
Number of Applicants
Upgraded to Full
Standing Registrations*
10 0 10 2 2 Provisional
(required CSMLS certification
and 900 MLT work experience
hours)
0
6 Conditional
(required 900 MLT work
experience hours)
*Note: Applicants that upgrade from an alternate class of registration to a full standing permit have the ability to practice without limitations/
conditions. As IEMLTs are given Provisional and Conditional Practice Permits valid for one year most meet conditions and upgrade in the
subsequent calendar year.
Pursuant to section 31(1) of the Health Professions Act,
applicants have a formal appeal process which states “an
applicant whose application for registration is accepted
subject to conditions or whose registration is deferred or
whose application is refused by the registrar, registration
committee, or competence committee may, within 30
days after being given a copy of the decision, request a
review by the council in accordance with subsection (3)”.
Furthermore, section 31(3) states “a request for review must
be in writing, set out the reasons why the applications for
registration should be approved with or without conditions,
and be given to the registrar, who must give a copy of the
request to the council”. In 2010, the College did not receive
any requests for registration decision appeals from IEMLTs.
Registration Committee
The Registration Committee is a standing regulatory
committee whose purpose is to determine eligibility for
MLT registration and voluntary membership with the
College for those applications that do not clearly meet the
registration criteria as provided for in current legislation.
The Registration Committee is comprised of seven
regulated MLT members, including MLT educators and two
MLA representatives. This committee is primarily involved
in decisions regarding individuals that apply for registration
with the College via the Substantial Equivalence (SE)
route as provided for in the Health Professions Act and
the MLT Profession Regulation. These individuals are not
eligible for the primary route to registration; therefore, they
cannot challenge the national certification examination as
administered by the CSMLS as they have not completed an
accredited medical laboratory training program. Applicants
seeking SE MLT registration with the College must satisfy
Registration Committee requirements and demonstrate
a combination of formal education (minimum Bachelor
of Science), work experience/practice, professional
development, and other qualifications are at the
competence level required for registration as a regulated
member.
In 2008, the College also partnered with the Southern
Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) to create an
examination for individuals seeking SE MLT registration
as an alternative to successful completion of multiple
supplemental courses to satisfy the Registration Committee
requirements. This examination focused on specimen
collection and handling, safety and infection control, and
quality management. These areas were identified as core
competencies in a MLTs formal education training program
not addressed sufficiently by an undergraduate degree
in the science field. In 2009, 28 SE applicants challenged
this examination and only two were unsuccessful in
their attempt. In 2010, 8 SE applicants challenged this
examination and 1 was unsuccessful.
12

Continuing Competence Program
The College implemented the MLT Continuing Competence
Program (CCP) in 2007 in compliance with provisions set
out in section 50 of the Health Professions Act and sections
12.2, 12.3, and 12.4 of the MLT Profession Regulation,
as proclaimed, and which authorizes implementation,
compliance, and enforcement. The CCP ran concurrently
with the annual MLT practice permit renewal process
from September 15 to December 31 and resulted in the
simultaneous submission of annual practice permit dues
and member demographics with completed Learning
Plans for the current year and new Learning Plans for the
upcoming membership year. The College established an
escalating fee system to encourage early renewal to ensure
all practicing MLTs were in possession of valid registrations
prior to January 1st of the upcoming membership year.
In 2010, the College instituted Version II of the CCP for
the 2011 MLT practice permit renewal season. This version
incorporated feedback from stakeholders and members
and was approved by Alberta Health and Wellness in
May 2009. New initiatives and developments in Version
II include updates to the Self-Assessment form and MLT
Competence Profile (new competencies, such as Quality
Management and Laboratory Information Systems),
additional examples of acceptable completed Learning
Plans and Recording Log Sheets, and enhancements to the
annual College review and audit process.
The following charts summarize practice permit renewal statistics. The renewal year captures
data for the upcoming practice permit year as MLT practice permits are issued prior to January 1
(e.g. 2010 data is reflective of 2011 practice permit renewals).
78%
September 15 – October 31
Percentage of Members
Completing Renewal Process
17%
November 1 - 30
5%
December 1 - 31
13

Renewal Year Type of Renewal Process Percentage of Members Percentage of Learning
Plans without Error
Percentage of Learning Plan
Requiring Correction
2008 On-line 89 84 16
Hard-copy 11 52 48
2009 On-line 100 91 9
2010 On-line 100 96 4
Note: In 2009, the College instituted mandatory on-line renewal for all MLT practice permits and hard-copy documents were no longer
accepted. The decreased error rate for 2009/2010 is attributed to the standardized on-line reporting format and suspension of hard copy
renewals. Corrective actions for Learning Plans were due to learning objectives not clearly identified, learning activities used for multiple
learning objectives with an identical focus, learning objectives that did not correlate with the identified area of competence, and identical
learning objectives simply restated from the previous year.
The following table summarizes the top ten competence profile areas (as identified by members)
of learning and development for 2010 (2009 provided for comparison). The profile areas are in
descending order of total responses received for on-line renewals (fall 2009 and 2010).
Cluster 2010 Profile Area Cluster 2009 Profile Area
A-3 Professional Development A-3 Professional Development
H-1 Routine Chemistry C-4 Analytical Principles and Procedures
I-1 Routine Hematology A-2 Communication and Interpersonal Skills
A-2 Communications and Interpersonal Skills C-2 Anatomy and Physiology
D-2 Quality Management B-1 General Laboratory Safety
B-1 General Laboratory Safety A-4 Leadership
J-1 Routine Bacteriology D-2 Quality Management
C-5 Equipment/Instrumentation C-5 Equipment / Instrumentation
C-2 Anatomy and Physiology A-5 Management Skills
A-5 Management Skills I-1 Routine Hematology
Note: The College received 9 requests to change Learning Plans throughout 2010 as members’ areas of practice and responsibility
changed. All requests were approved by the College.
14

Continuing Competence Committee
and the Annual Audit Process
The Continuing Competence Committee (CCC) is
a standing regulatory committee whose purpose is
to evaluate, assess, and monitor regulated member
compliance with the mandated Continuing Competence
Program as set out in current legislation via the annual
audit process. The CCC reviews cases that fall outside
of the established criteria for Continuing Competence
Program (CCP) compliance, provide direction to the
Registrar and Manager of Professional Practice and
Competence/Deputy Registrar (when required), and also
facilitate consultation with College members regarding
competence, professional development programs, and
continuing education opportunities. The CCC is comprised
of ten regulated MLT members representative of diverse
geographic areas throughout the province, multiple core
areas of practice, and a variety of workplace environments,
including educational institutions and public and private
laboratories.
College policy outlines the CCP operational framework
including an annual review which consists of the
compilation of program reports and documentation,
member file maintenance, and aggregate data reporting to
government. Three percent of practicing MLTs have been
audited in detail during each audit period. The annual audit
process is guided by the Manager of Professional Practice
and Competence/Deputy Registrar and relevant member
information, such as completed learning plans and evidence
of continued learning activities, is reviewed by the CCC. For
future audits, the College hopes to increase to five to eight
per cent of the membership to garner a better sense of
general overall compliance.
The following table summarizes audit statistics for the Continuing Competence Program
for 2007 - 2010.
Description 2007 2008 2009 2010
Total Number of CCP Participants** 2225 2236 2358 2264
Number Audited 67 68 77 81
% Audited (rounded) 3% 3% 3% 3%
Number with Successful Initial Audit (pass) 22 38 53 69
Number Requiring Remedial Work 38 25 21 10
Reasons for Remedial Work:
· Failure to Submit Documentation 11 10 7 4
· Incomplete Documentation 26 15 14 6
Number Forwarded to Complaints Director
for Non-Compliance
0 0 0 n/a*
Extenuating Circumstances 1 0 0 1
Cancelled Audits 7 5 3 1
Average Annual CE hours/Audited Member 95 102 106 61
* 2010 participants will be audited in February 2011 (some results are unavailable at time of print)
** Total number of CCP participants is not reflective of total MLT membership as CCP participation is not
required for Initial MLT Practice Permit applications
15

Professional Development
Certificate Program
The College supports professional development (PD)
and continuing education programs that meet members’
learning needs in order to:
• Perform daily tasks efficiently and effectively
• Protect the public
• Remain current with leading edge technological
advancements
• Transition into other areas of practice
The College supports members’ continuing education by:
• Approving Bursary Awards to qualifying applicants on
an annual basis
• Promoting educational offerings in College
publications and on the College website at no charge
• Supporting and administering the voluntary PD
Certificate Program
• Providing financial subsidy for the College Annual
General Meeting/Professional Development
Symposium
• Comply with conditions on MLT practice permits
The following table summarizes the number of Professional Development Certificates
from 2005 to 2010:
Year Number Issued Percentage Issued as a Requirement for Conditional Practice Permits
2005 82 18
2006 72 21
2007 65 14
2008 32 23
2009 23 17
2010 23 0
Note: Professional Development Certificates were a requirement of some Conditional MLT Practice Permits. Once PD Certificates were issued,
practice permits were upgraded to full standing without conditions and/or restrictions.
The future focus for member’s continuing education and
competence will involve:
• Ongoing implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and
reporting of the Continuing Competence Program
pursuant to legislation
• Providing program content for to the College
Professional Development Symposium
• Promoting personal and professional portfolio
development of the general membership
• Collaborating with stakeholders to incorporate new
areas of practice and competence development
16

Complaints and Discipline
The number and nature of cases of unprofessional conduct
for the College in 2010 were consistent with those reported
in 2008 and 2009. Many complaints involved members that
no longer reside in Alberta and/or Canada which resulted
in lengthy and costly investigations and hearings due to
long distance travel and communications. Additionally,
the complexity of the complaints increased with many
members having multiple charges against them and
Hearing Tribunals tasked with making difficult, multifaceted
decisions. In 2010, the College retained independent
legal counsel for the Hearing Tribunals to assist them in
addressing administrative and jurisdictional issues raised by
opposing legal counsels.
The following table summarizes complaint data from the 2010 membership year.
Description Number Explanation
Files Carried Forward From 2008
Files Carried Forward from 2009
3
3
Pending Hearing or written Hearing
Tribunal decision.
New Complaints Received in 2010 7
Employer Complaints 13
Peer Complaints 0
Public Complaints 0
Complaints Dismissed 2 Insufficient evidence of “unprofessional
conduct” as defined by the HPA.
Files Referred for Assessment Under Section 118 HPA 0
Files Referred to Investigation 11
Files Referred to Hearing Tribunal 9
Files Referred to Alternative Complaint Resolution (ACR) 0
Hearings Closed to Public 0
Complaint Review Committee Appeals 0
Files Closed During Year 5
17

The following Hearing Tribunal decisions were rendered
in 2010 and findings have been presented without the
publication of identifying information. The discipline
summaries are not intended to provide comprehensive
information on the complaint, details of the investigation,
or Hearing Tribunal proceedings; they are for educational
purposes only.
Case 1
A Hearing Tribunal made a finding of unprofessional
conduct against a member who demonstrated inadequate
knowledge and competency to perform basic laboratory
procedures to minimum acceptable standards. The member
admitted to the unprofessional conduct and signed an
Agreed Statement of Facts and a Joint Submission on
Penalty in conjunction with the College. The Hearing
Tribunal ordered a formal reprimand be placed on the
member’s file for a period of four years. There were no fines
or cost orders. The Hearing Tribunal gave the following
reasons for the sanctions as: (i) member accepted full
responsibility for actions; (ii) member continues to take
actions to improve professional knowledge and abilities; (iii)
member cooperated throughout the investigation; and (iv)
member’s first finding of unprofessional conduct.
Case 2
A Hearing Tribunal made a finding of unprofessional
conduct against a member who demonstrated an inability
to perform basic Medical Laboratory Technologist duties
with some independence and accuracy. The member did
not attend the Hearing Tribunal Hearing to defend the
charge, but generally acknowledged the charges were
based on accurate facts. The Hearing Tribunal ordered
a reprimand in the form of the Hearing Tribunal decision
to be placed on the member’s file, completion of an
interpersonal communications course to be completed by
a specified date, and costs of $1,000 for costs associated
with the hearing and investigation.
Case 3
A Hearing Tribunal made a finding of unprofessional
conduct against a member who removed a blood specimen
from hospital premises without authorization, performed a
laboratory test on the specimen without a physician order,
violated an employer’s Code of Conduct and/or College
Standards of Practice and/or Code of Ethics by utilizing
employer resources for personal and/or family benefits, and
conveyed a laboratory test results to a family member to
secure treatment for another family member. The Hearing
Tribunal ordered the member to complete a professional
ethics course at their own personal cost, costs of $1,500,
and fines totaling $3,000 to be paid within six months from
the date of the Hearing Tribunal decision.
Other Activities
Alberta Federation of
Regulated Health Professions
The College has been a member of the Alberta Federation
of Regulated Health Professions (AFRHP) since 2005.
The AFRHP is a voluntary member-based organization
comprised of 24 health regulatory Colleges in the province.
Independently, each College is a public body created
by government to oversee Alberta’s regulated health
professions and protect the public by implementing,
administering, and enforcing health care legislation.
Collectively, members of the AFRHP promote leading
practice initiatives that foster public awareness and
professional accountability of our practitioners.
AFRHP members have established networks nationally and
internationally, and have developed a communal body of
knowledge, expertise, and information sharing to advance
the operations of each individual College. In 2010, the
College was also a member of the AFRHP’s Coordinating
Committee. In this capacity, the College was actively
involved in facilitating the management of all business
aspects of the AFRHP by coordinating meeting agendas
and activities, speaker presentations, and all financial affairs
of the AFRHP.
18

ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL
LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For The Year Ended December 31, 2010
and
AUDITOR’S REPORT
To The Members
19

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
To the Members of Alberta College of Medical Laboratory Technologists:
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of Alberta College of Medical Laboratory Technologists
which consist of the statement of financial position at December 31, 2010, and the statements of changes in net
assets, operations, and cash flows for the year then ended, and a summary of significant accounting policies and
other explanatory information.
Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with
Canadian generally accepted accounting principles, and for such internal control as management determines is
necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to
fraud or error.
Auditor’s Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit
in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we comply with
ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements are free from material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial
statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of
material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments,
the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial
statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose
of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the
appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as
well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit
opinion.
Audit Opinion
In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Alberta
College of Medical Laboratory Technologists as at December 31, 2010, and its financial performance and its cash
flows for the year then ended in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles.
Edmonton, Alberta
March 12, 2011
Chartered Accountants
20

ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2010
2010 2009
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash $ 386,388 414,896
Guaranteed investment certificates 1,944,132 1,542,475
Accounts receivable 600 5,145
Prepaid expenses 15,050 22,351
Total current assets 2,346,170 1,984,867
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (Note 3) 68,180 51,598
TOTAL $2,414,350 $2,036,465
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 58,239 74,126
Unearned membership fees 1,281,520 1,246,010
Total current liabilities 1,339,759 1,320,136
NET ASSETS:
Invested in property and equipment 68,180 51,598
Internally restricted (Note 4) 800,068 300,068
Unrestricted 206,343 364,663
Total net assets 1,074,591 716,329
TOTAL $2,414,350 $2,036,465
Approved by Council:
Darcy Gara, 2010 President
21

ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010
Invested Internally
In Property Restricted
TOTAL
and Equipment (Note 4) Unrestricted 2010 2009
Balance at beginning of the year $ 51,598 $300,068 $364,663 $716,329 $ 682,203
Excess of (expenses) revenue
for the year (28,567) - 386,829 358,262 34,126
Proceeds on disposal of equipment (1,105) - 1,105 - -
Purchase of equipment 46,254 - (46,254) - -
Transfer to internally restricted - 500,000 (500,000) - -
Balance at end of the year $ 68,180 $800,068 $206,343 $1,074,591 $716,329
22

ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010
2010 2009
REVENUE:
Membership fees $1,331,462 $ 994,835
Sponsorships - annual general meeting 25,000 -
Convention - 101,043
Interest 27,564 27,285
Advertising and processing fees 10,831 16,231
Total revenue 1,394,857 1,139,394
EXPENSES:
Amortization 28,567 28,747
Annual general meeting 59,546 8,377
Bank and credit card charges 44,634 51,422
Communications 10,043 3,537
Computer 15,108 17,184
Conduct - net of recoveries of $4,000 (2009 - $1,000) 182,100 106,359
Continuing competence 8,577 45,083
Convention - 148,612
Council 41,117 47,947
Deputy registrar 2,263 5,240
Insurance 5,420 4,081
Office 32,947 23,297
Postage and copying 27,374 32,355
Professional fees 27,200 23,632
Publications 8,358 11,223
Registrar 7,509 11,278
Registration 5,965 21,195
Rent and common area costs 76,310 56,419
Salaries and benefits 447,912 454,738
Telephone 5,645 4,542
Total expenses 1,036,595 1,105,268
EXCESS OF REVENUE (EXPENSES) FOR THE YEAR $ 358,262 $ 34,126
23

ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010
2010 2009
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Cash from operations:
Excess of revenue for the year $ 358,262 $ 34,126
Items not involving cash for operations:
Amortization 28,567 28,747
Amortization of deferred lease inducement - (3,675)
386,829 59,198
Increase (decrease) in non-cash working capital balances
related to operations:
Accounts receivable 4,545 (3,685)
Prepaid expenses 7,301 (15,380)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (15,887) (62,648)
Unearned membership fees 35,510 390,850
Net cash from operating activities 418,298 368,335
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchase of equipment (46,254) (13,991)
Proceeds on disposal of equipment 1,105 -
Increase in guaranteed investment certificates (401,657) (239,388)
Net cash used in investing activities (446,806) (253,379)
(DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH DURING THE YEAR (28,508) 114,956
CASH AT BEGINNING OF THE YEAR 414,896 299,940
CASH AT END OF THE YEAR $ 386,388 $ 414,896
24

ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 2010
1. PURPOSE OF COLLEGE:
The College regulates the practice of medical laboratory technology in a manner that protects
and serves the public interest. In fulfilling this role, the College establishes, maintains and enforces
standards for registration and continuing competence, standards of practice and a code of ethics
for the profession and investigates and acts on complaints.
2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES:
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted
accounting principles. The significant accounting policies are as follows:
Revenue recognition:
The College follows the deferral method of accounting for contributions. Restricted contributions
are recognized as revenue in the year in which the related expenses are incurred. Unrestricted
contributions are recognized as revenue when received or receivable if the amount to be received
can be reasonably assured.
Membership revenue is recognized in the year to which the membership fees relate. Revenue
from special activities is recognized when the function to which the revenue relates to has been
presented or completed. Conduct recoveries are recognized when received.
Interest revenue is recognized as it is earned.
Donated services:
The work of the College is dependent on the voluntary service of many individuals. Since these
services are not normally purchased by the College and because of the difficulty of determining
their fair value, donated services are not recognized in these financial statements.
Guaranteed investment certificates:
Guaranteed investment certificates are classified as held to maturity financial instruments and are
stated at the purchase amount plus accrued interest.
Property and equipment:
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Amortization is provided at the following
annual rates:
Computer hardware 30%
Computer software 50%
Office equipment and furniture 20%
25

ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 2010
2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued):
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and cash equivalents consist of balances with banks and short-term investments with
maturities not exceeding 90 days.
Use of estimates:
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Canadian generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the
reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the
date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
3. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:
The major categories of property and equipment and related accumulated amortization are as
follows:
Accumulated Net Book Value
Cost Amortization 2010 2009
Computer hardware $ 18,986 $ 12,011 $ 6,975 $ 9,242
Computer software 140,018 112,838 27,180 23,159
Office equipment and furniture 62,623 28,598 34,025 17,722
Leasehold improvements 14,755 14,755 - 1,475
$236,382 $168,202 $68,180 $51,598
26

ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 2010
4. NET ASSETS - INTERNALLY RESTRICTED:
By resolution of Council, funds have been internally restricted as follows:
2010 2009
Operating reserve $490,209 $290,209
Conduct contingency reserve 300,000 -
Bursary fund 9,859 9,859
Total $800,068 $300,068
The funds can only be expended upon approval by Council.
5. LEASE COMMITMENTS:
The college has committed to the rental of business premises under a lease agreement expiring
July 31, 2020. The minimum monthly rent payable is $6,233 to July 31, 2015 and $6,800 from July
31, 2015 to July 31, 2020.
The College is also responsible for its proportionate share of common area costs.
The College has also committed to a lease for office equipment requiring quarterly payments of
$2,130 to July, 2013.
6. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS:
The College’s financial instruments consist of cash, guaranteed investment certificates and
accounts payable and accrued liabilities. It is management’s opinion that the College is not
exposed to significant interest, currency or credit risks arising from these financial instruments.
The carrying values of the financial instruments approximate their fair values.
7. INCOME TAX STATUS:
The College is a non-profit organization within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and
is exempt from income taxes.
27

“Continuity gives us roots; change
gives us branches, letting us stretch
and grow and reach new heights.”
P. R. Kezer
28