Before you begin specialized training or education, you must know what’s waiting for you upon completion of the course. As you may already know, it takes time to become an MRI technician. You’ll have to take MRI programs, undergo clinical training, and take a certification exam before you start practicing in the field.

Enrolling in MRI programs requires an investment in time and money. For this reason, it isn’t very wise to start a new career path without a clear vision or plan because you might realize in the end that it isn’t for you. Take your time and research more about the career.

MRI Tech Job Opportunities

There are more than 40,000 MRI technicians in the US alone, and they’re considered essential healthcare workers. While their main role is to scan the internal organs of patients, they have other responsibilities to do. For starters, must learn about their patient’s medical history, talk to them about the procedure, and assure them of their safety and comfort throughout the process.

It follows that an accredited MRI tech should be proficient in operating an MRI scanner as well as maintaining it. After capturing the images, they would forward the results to the doctor and possibly discuss with him or her the findings. Their role in the accurate diagnosis of a patient’s disease is crucial.

Most MRI techs work in a hospital setting because many patients in hospitals require MRI scans. But they may also work in diagnostic centers and laboratories. There are centers that only perform CT scans and MRIs but don’t necessarily treat patients.

It’s also possible for MRI techs to be employed at a physician’s office. Some clinics of private practitioners do have MRI machines because most of their patients require the procedure. About 10% of MRIs in the United States work in this setting. If you want to join the league of these professionals, check out the MRI programs that are currently available to you.

Modules included in MRI Programs

Radiology professionals have the same health risks as other healthcare workers because they are exposed to the infectious diseases of their patients. However, many radiology professionals fear the ill effects of radiation more than anything.

As such, they are required to wear badges while at work to keep track of the amount of radiation that they have been exposed to. They should also wear lead aprons and similar personal protective gear to further shield them from radiation. But then, MRI techs are not as exposed to radiation as x-ray technicians. MRIs don’t use radiation as much as x-rays and CT scans.

The current healthcare system needs more MRI techs. That’s why there are a plethora of job opportunities for MRI Techs. If you’re a healthcare professional who wants to do a career move, consider enrolling in ARRT accredited MRI programs like the one that we at Pulse Radiology offer.