Radiologic technicians are a valued asset to any medical facility that offers MRIs. Without them, there would be nobody to provide the service of MRI imaging, the operation of the technology, or to understand the results displayed after a screening. Solid MRI programs can prepare an aspiring technician to fulfill this service and step into the role of caring for the general population. And more people than ever before are stepping up to do exactly that.
With hoards of students rushing to become MRI technicians online, one must think that it’s a pretty great job. Some think that it’s a job that absolutely anybody could do. But, like any other career path, it takes a specific kind of person with a certain degree of drive to successfully cultivate a career in Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
Yes, the benefits of joining this career are numerous. Job security, health/life/disability insurance provided by one’s employer, a prerequisite education of only two years, and working to help the public are just a few that we can think of off the tops of our heads. When you consider all of these by themselves, joining an MRI program sounds like the common-sense step toward your future.
But is it, really?
Not everybody is cut out for this line of work; for some, the disadvantages outweigh the benefits. We strongly urge you to consider what is commonly perceived as downsides to the job before you enroll in an online MRI program.
MRI Programs are Competitive
As we mentioned above, thousands of students each year enter into MRI programs to advance their careers. Many of these students expect to be able to land their dream radiologic technologist job right away but often end up working in undesirable positions and hours for some time before that big opportunity arises. If you worry that you can’t tough it out until you score that big break or desire instant gratification, an MRI technologist may not be your career path.
Radiation Exposure is a Real Danger
Radiologic technologists must be incredibly careful in protecting themselves and their patients from the harmful effects of radiation. Over the span of one’s career as an MRI tech, one could be exposed to a great deal of it, particularly if they skip corners on their personal safety. No job is without its risks, but this is a pretty hefty one. If you frequently forget important things or believe that even unavoidable radiation exposure is too risky, it may be worth reconsidering signing up for that MRI program.
The Work is Very Physical
You’ll have to spend long stretches of time on your feet, especially early in your career when many people often work very long shifts. This could be a tremendous struggle for people with mobility or chronic pain problems and those who become fatigued from being on their feet for most of the day. You will also likely encounter situations where you have to lift patients that cannot lift themselves for one reason or another. If the strength or endurance aspects of the job sound overwhelming to you, MRI tech might not be your dream job after all.
If you’re reading this, you might think these perceived disadvantages are nothing to worry about, which is great! You’re likely a splendid candidate for this career path. At Pulse Radiology, we encourage you to examine the details of our online MRI programs and evaluate the role your newfound career would play in your life before you even start.
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