JOB SATISFACTION OF MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST FRONTLINERS IN A MANILA TERTIARY HOSPITAL: IMPACTS ON CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE AMID COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented challenges for healthcare systems worldwide, profoundly affecting frontline healthcare workers. Among them, medical technologists played a critical role in clinical laboratory operations, ensuring timely diagnosis and monitoring of COVID-19 cases. This study aimed to assess the job satisfaction of medical technologist frontliners in a public tertiary hospital in Manila and examine its implications for the clinical laboratory science profession during the pandemic. Using a descriptive-correlational research design, data were collected through structured questionnaires distributed to medical technologist staff. The study evaluated key factors influencing job satisfaction, including work environment, workload, recognition, professional growth opportunities, and organizational support. Findings revealed that while medical technologists demonstrated high commitment and resilience, their job satisfaction was significantly affected by increased workloads, insufficient resources, and the psychological toll of pandemic-related stress. The results also highlighted positive correlations between organizational support and overall job satisfaction, emphasizing the need for adequate recognition, mental health resources, and career development initiatives. These findings underscore the critical role of institutional policies in supporting medical technologists, ensuring both their well-being and the continued efficiency of laboratory services. The study contributes valuable insights into workforce management and professional sustainability in clinical laboratory science amid global health crises