Doctors may use MRI scans to help diagnose neurological problems.
MRI technicians are part of the broad category of radiologic technologists, who use signal-emitting machines to take diagnostic pictures of the human body. As the American Society of Radiologic Technologists explains, MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, works by knocking atoms out of alignment and recording signals released as they return to their original positions. Because the work requires patient interaction, successful MRI technicians employ both technical and interpersonal skills.
Skills and Interests
To enjoy your work as an MRI technician, liking both people and science is important. Patients coming to you for scans may be facing life-threatening or life-changing illnesses, so compassionate care is crucial. During training, you will learn biology, anatomy, physics and safety precautions for using MRI machines. Interest in the human body and medical technology will help you stay on track during your studies. Attention to detail also is necessary for operating machinery safely and helping other professionals interpret medical images. Technicians need to approach their work with a scientific mindset while keeping patient feelings and concerns in mind.
Educational Requirements
An MRI technician needs a certificate, an associate degree or a bachelor's degree in the discipline. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, associate degrees are the most common credential held by these professionals. Two-year programs are offered at community colleges and trade schools; four-year colleges offer bachelor's degrees. To make sure that you're getting a high-quality education, check that your program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. When deciding what kind of post-secondary education to pursue, note that the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists will require at least an associate degree to take its certification exam if you graduate after December 31, 2014.
Certification
The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists' certification exam is optional. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that you will have better job prospects if you take it, since many employers look for MRI technicians with this national certification. MRI technicians are also state-regulated, and each state has a different set of licensing requirements. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists offers state-specific information through its website. You can also check with your state's health board for more information.
Considerations
Like many health care professionals, MRI technicians need stamina to deal with busy workdays spent mostly on their feet. Although MRI technicians usually have 40-hour work weeks, the hours of work can fall outside of the typical 9-to-5 job. Some technicians work weekends and evenings and have on-call hours. Some jobs involve traveling to patients in trucks carrying equipment. Other technicians may work multiple part-time positions and have to commute between hospitals.
Tags: Radiologic Technologists, American Registry, American Registry Radiologic, American Society, American Society Radiologic, associate degree, Bureau Labor
