Important Update – New licensing requirements for Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs) and financial support for associated fees – Submission deadline: April 28, 2025

April 14, 2025

Dear Colleagues,

While many of you are probably aware, we are reaching out to provide details about the new licensing requirements for Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs) that take effect on May 3, 2025.

This mandate, introduced under provincial legislation (March 4, 2025), will require all MLAs to obtain formal licensure with the Nova Scotia College of Medical Laboratory Technologists (NSCMLT). The goal of this change is to enhance patient care, strengthen professional standards, and support healthcare teams.

Nova Scotia Health is committed to helping Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs) navigate the new licensing requirements by providing information, clear guidance and access to leaders for support and answers to questions

We recognize the financial and administrative impacts of licensing and have been actively exploring ways to ease this transition including financial supports and providing FAQs to guide your next steps.

 Important licensing details:

• The college has set a deadline of April 28, 2025, for registration submissions, to ensure processing before the mandate comes into effect. Note: Employment with Nova Scotia Health will not be disrupted if submissions are received by May 3, 2025.
• To obtain licensure, MLAs must meet specific requirements, including proof of certification, professional liability insurance, and payment of licensing fees.
• Those without certification will qualify (legacy arrangement) but must still apply.
• MLAs in training who have not enrolled or completed an MLA program or Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), must also apply and will receive a provisional license with conditions and restrictions
• Both Nova Scotia Health and the provincial government understand the financial hardship the increased licensing fee under the Nova Scotia College of Medical Laboratory Technologists (NSCMLT) may create for MLAs. The Department of Health and Wellness will provide one-time coverage of $308.50 to offset the application fee ($175) and half of the pro-rated licensing fee ($133.50) for 2025. Those who have already registered and paid the associated fees will receive information on reimbursement.
• MLAs should continue to apply to the NSCMLT prior to the deadline; however, there may be a few days delay before their registration portal is updated to reflect the change in fees for first-time applications.

Further details can be found here by accessing the Medical Laboratory Assistant Licensing FAQs. If you have any questions, please reach out to your leader.

More information will be provided as planning continues.