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MRI technicians are in high demand. Here’s a guide on how to become an mri tech and the education and training you’ll need to get started.
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Introduction
If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding career in the medical field, you may want to consider becoming an mri tech mri techs are specially trained to operate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, which are used to create images of the inside of the human body.
MRI techs must be able to complete a rigorous education and training program before they can become certified and licensed to practice. But if you’re up for the challenge, becoming an mri tech can be a great way to start a career in the medical field.
What is an MRI Tech?
An MRI technologist is a medical professional who operates magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to create images of the human body. These images are used by physicians to diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries.
MRI technologists must be able to operate complex equipment, so they must have both technical skills and medical knowledge. They must also be able to communicate effectively with patients, as many patients may feel anxious about having an MRI scan.
Becoming an MRI technologist typically requires completing a formal educational program and passing a certification exam. Some states also require licensure.
Job Description
MRI techs, or magnetic resonance imaging technologists, operate MRI scanners to create images of patients’ internal body structures. These images are used by doctors to diagnose and treat medical conditions.
MRI techs must complete a training program and obtain certification before they can practice. Once they are certified, they must stay up-to-date on new technology and developments in the field.
Job Description
MRI techs typically work in hospitals, but may also work in outpatient care centers, diagnostic imaging centers, or doctor’s offices. They may work full time or part time, and their hours will vary depending on the needs of their employer.
MRI techs typically work with patients who are lying on a table that slides into the MRI scanner. They may have to position patients in order to get the best possible image. They may also administer contrast agents, which help to improve the quality of the images.
During an MRI scan, the technologist will be in a separate room where they can operate the machine and monitor the patient’s condition. They will be able to communicate with the patient through a intercom system.
After the scan is complete, the MRI tech will review the images to make sure that they are of high quality. They will then send them to a radiologist for interpretation.
Education and Training
MRI technicians typically need an associate’s degree from an accredited mri program although some jobs may only require a certificate or postsecondary non-degree award. Certificate programs typically take one year to complete, while Associate’s Degree programs generally take two years.
In order to be eligible for an Associate’s Degree in Radiologic Technology, students must first complete a minimum of 75 college credit hours, including general education courses. Once these prerequisite courses have been completed, students can apply to a Radiologic Technology program.
Radiologic Technology programs are generally two-year programs that lead to an Associate’s Degree in Radiologic Technology. These programs are offered at many community colleges and technical schools across the country. During the program, students take classes and complete laboratory work and clinical internships. Students in these programs must also pass a licensure exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT) before they can begin working as an MRI technician.
Certification
MRI techs are not required to be licensed or certified, but many employers prefer or require certification. The American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT) offers a certification in MRI technology, which requires passing an exam. Candidates must have completed an accredited MRI program and have at least one year of clinical experience to be eligible to take the exam. Alternatively, candidates can earn ARRT certification in another modality, such as radiography, nuclear medicine technology, or radiation therapy, and then complete ARRT’s post-primary certificate program in MRI.
Salary and Job Outlook
MRI techs are in high demand, and the salary and job outlook are favorable. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that diagnostic medical sonographers, which includes MRI techs, earned a median salary of $64,280 in May 2016. The BLS also reports that employment of diagnostic medical sonographers is expected to grow by 28 percent from 2016 to 2026—much faster than the average for all occupations.
