Specialists are trained to review medical images.
Medical imaging refers to a variety of tests, including X-rays, sonograms, CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI. Medical images are diagnostic tools that show what's going on inside the human body. Medical imaging jobs include jobs in ultrasound technology, radiography and nuclear medicine. Individuals who work in the field of medical imaging play an important role in the detection and diagnosis of disease.
Sonographers
Sonography is the use of sound waves to generate an image used for diagnostic purposes. When people think of an ultrasound, they usually associate it with pregnancy, but this type of imaging can be used anywhere in the body to assist in medical diagnosis. An example of a different type of specialist is an echocardiographer, a specialist who uses ultrasound to examine the heart. Diagnostic medical sonographers are trained to use special equipment to collect reflected echoes to form an image that can be photographed, videotaped or transmitted to a physician for interpretation and diagnosis. Formal training to become a sonographer usually takes two to four years and is offered in vocational schools, colleges and universities.
Radiologic Technicians and Technologists
Common diagnostic tests such as X-rays, mammograms, CT scans and MRIs are typically performed by radiologic technicians and technologists. Radiologic technicians may specialize in a particular type of medical imaging. Training programs lead to a certificate, associate degree or bachelor's degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BLS, candidates to become radiologic technicians or technologists usually pursue an associate degree.
Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Nuclear medicine technologists are trained to operate specialized cameras that follow a radioactive drug in a patient's body. Images of the radiopharmaceuticals are created and produced on a computer screen or film for evaluation by a doctor. This type of diagnostic imaging is helpful in diagnosing disease much earlier than may be apparent with other types of tests. Training to become a nuclear medicine technologist usually lasts two to four years.
Other Medical Imaging Opportunities
The field of medical imaging is continually growing and evolving, and there are plenty of opportunities within this field. Equipment used for diagnostic imaging often requires specialists to maintain or repair it and to perform routine maintenance. Medical imaging staff may specialize in a particular type of test or may perform a variety of imaging tests. Workers may initially focus on one type of test and gradually learn additional techniques through advanced on-the-job training or additional education.
Tags: associate degree, diagnostic imaging, field medical, field medical imaging, four years, nuclear medicine, particular type
