Enrolling in online MRI programs with clinical training makes you eligible to sit for the ARRT MRI Certification exam. These technologists are then considered experts in Magnetic Resonance Imaging and are tasked to scan patients according to specific radiologist-guided protocols. These images can diagnose many types of pathology, so understanding and recognizing pathology is instrumental during day-to-day practice.
But while that’s the main responsibility of MRI technologists, they are given several other tasks as well. MRI screening is a major pre-exam evaluation of what devices or hardware patients have internally and externally. The technologist’s job is to ensure patients are safe before entering the MR room.
What to Expect from MRI Tech Programs
MRI tech programs train and prepare radiologic technologists for the position of MRI technologist. Aside from taking diagnostic images, these technologists must also make sure that the MRI hardware and software are well-maintained and calibrated through quality assurance. This should be taught to them in the MRI tech programs that they’ll join.
These technologists should also understand that the images they produce will aid physicians in making accurate diagnostic decisions. Therefore, they must learn a great deal about anatomy and precisely follow the orders of the referring physician’s script. MRI technologists should also prepare the patients before the scan through safety screening and ensure they are positioned properly inside the bore. All safety protocols should be followed accordingly.
What to Expect as an MRI Technologist
The high demand for MRI technologists today is what makes the career outlook for these professionals very favorable. With the demand for MRIs increasing fast, MR exam requests are expected to rise to 18% in the next 5 years. This is mainly due to the various advantages MRI offers and the increase of MR magnets installations internationally.
As for the salary, the annual pay for an MRI technologist is expected to increase as the demand for more exams and installations increases. Most MRI technologists today are employed by hospitals, clinics, diagnostic imaging centers, and private practice physicians. The estimated average annual salary is currently at $70,000, with a high of $110,000 in major cities.
How to Become an MRI Technician
To join MRI tech programs, aspiring technologists should hold a degree in radiologic technology from a JCERT-accredited program. There are different areas in this field, and it’s possible to pursue a 14-week online program to become eligible for the certification exam. The MRI tech programs you should join must include courses in sectional anatomy, pathology, and physics. It should also include clinical training to satisfy ARRT Clinical Requirements.
Many states require these technologists to obtain a license or certificate to practice. Certification can be obtained from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists or ARRT. Certification is required for licensure, which is an examination also administered by the same governing body. To be eligible for the certification and licensure exam, one must complete comprehensive MRI tech programs either online or in a traditional classroom setup.
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