Preceptors training need assessment for medical laboratory professional clinical education programs in Ethiopia.

The average cumulative level of competency from level 1 (not capable) to level 3 (advanced beginner), we found: learning in the practical teaching area 45.4%, clinical practicum teaching quality improvement and advocacy 42.9%, student assessment methods 42.7%, communication, collaboration and partnership 40.9%. Overall competence of preceptors (proportion of preceptors reported competent) was 57%. We recommend designing the performance interventions in the form of training by including communication skills for effective preceptor ship, students assessment and feedback, teaching and instruction strategies, planning for clinical practicum learning and principles of learning and teaching in practical areas.