Medical diagnostic careers use advanced technologies to produce diagnostic images.
A career in medical diagnostics involves the use of technology to create images that physicians use to diagnose conditions and injury. The technologist works with patients to answer questions and provide information. Technicians and technologists must have knowledge of the advanced equipment used to produce diagnostic images.
MRI Technician
Magnetic resonance imaging uses a magnetic field to create images of soft tissues and organs for physicians to use in the diagnosis of medical conditions and injury. The MRI technician prepares the patient for an MRI scan and uses advanced equipment to prepare the images under a physician’s orders. Qualified applicants for an MRI technician position may have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
Diagnostic Sonographer
Medical sonography uses sound waves to create the image used to diagnose conditions or illnesses. Obstetricians regularly use sonography to view a growing fetus in the womb. Diagnostic sonographers position the patient to provide the best image of the body area. Sonographers may specialize in a particular type of sonography such as obstetrics. Colleges and universities offer two and four year programs in sonography.
Radiologic Technicians
Radiologic technicians use x-ray technology to create images of various parts of the body. Physicians use the x-ray image to diagnose conditions and injury. Radiologic technologists can specialize in other areas of diagnostic imaging such as MRI or CT scanning. Technicians are trained in one specialty, but can advance to a higher level with additional training and education in other imaging methods.
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
The nuclear medicine technologist administers radioactive drugs to patients and monitors the effect on tissues and organs of the body. The technologist uses cameras to map the drug in the body and create images of the organs that are being monitored. Colleges and universities offer associate and bachelor’s degree programs in nuclear medicine technology. Health care professionals that have a bachelor’s degree are often eligible to complete a one-year program to change specialties.
Tags: create images, bachelor’s degree, conditions injury, diagnose conditions, advanced equipment