Opportunities surrounding the routine roles of individual

Emmanuel Ampofo

Medical imaging technology is a science combining advanced technology and human compassion. Medical imaging technologists use their knowledge of physics, human anatomy, and physiology to create permanent medical images. This profession requires a dependable personality with a mature and caring nature. Medical imaging services are offered in various settings such as hospitals, healthcare facilities, physicians’ offices, mobile imaging companies, industrial plants, research centers, and government agencies. Commercial sales and marketing positions are also available in the field. People in this profession may specialize in a particular area or pursue careers as educators, researchers, consultants, or administrators. The constant growth in this field has created many new and exciting career opportunities. There are several choices to make when considering a career in medical imaging technology.

Radiographer

The term diagnostic radiography is used to ascertain a variety of radiographic or x-ray examinations. Most people are used to chest x-rays and also know that x-rays are the best way to diagnose fractured bones. The radiographer performs these procedures as well as procedures that require the use of contrast agents that make it possible to study organs that otherwise cannot be seen on x-rays. Radiographers are valued members of the healthcare team. Through a blend of classroom and clinical training, students learn radiographic equipment operation, patient positioning techniques, radiation safety, and patient management.

Computed Tomography (CT) Technologist

Computed tomography (CT) technologists are responsible for taking detailed cross sectional images of the internal structures of the human body. They are able to do this with advanced computerized x-ray equipment. These members of the healthcare team work closely with radiologists to provide radiographic studies that assist with patient diagnosis and treatment. They also use contrast agent in examining the GIT (gastrointestinal tract).

Mammographer

Mammographers use ionizing radiation to produce images of the breast for screening, diagnosis, and treatment purposes. A mammographer is responsible for creating a clear image that can be read by a radiologist, oncologist, etc, to make an accurate diagnosis.

Even periodic mammograms can be stressful for patients. Therefore, mammographers must be capable of making the patient as comfortable as possible throughout the examination procedure.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Nuclear medicine technologists are specialized members of the imaging healthcare team. They perform procedures that analyze both the anatomy and physiology of the human body. These procedures involve administering a radioactive drug to the patient and then analyzing the distribution and concentration of that radioactive drug with gamma cameras. Nuclear medicine technologists also administer radioactive drugs to treat certain cancers.

Some nuclear medicine technologists specialize in a clinical area called positron emission tomography (PET). Technologists specializing in PET operate a special imaging device that produces 3-D images of the human body.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist

MRI technologists use radio waves, powerful magnets, and computers to create images of the body. Technologists who work in this field must have good computer skills and a strong knowledge of cross sectional human anatomy.

Special Procedure Technologist

Special procedure technologists work closely with physicians in evaluating and treating certain diseases. They use specialized x-ray equipment to study the blood vessels of the body. These technologists also assist physicians who perform procedures to widen narrowed blood vessels. This fast-paced specialty requires quick and sometimes

independent thinking and an advanced knowledge of human anatomy. The technologist must also be able to handle sophisticated x-ray, computer, image processing, and patient -monitoring equipment.

Radiation Therapist

The radiation therapist is responsible for treating patients with a radiation beam or source. This healthcare professional will also assist the radiation oncologist with the set up and dosage that the patient will receive during the treatment. Radiation therapy patients are treated for cancer, and the therapist who works with the patients usually develops a special, supportive relationship with the patient and family members. Radiation therapists must possess a high degree of sensitivity and caring in addition to excellent technical skills.

Radiology Information Systems (RIS) Specialist

Radiology information systems (RIS) specialists are responsible for implementing, maintaining, and updating radiology information computer systems. Working with radiology staff, they oversee the computer systems that provide information about patient exams, results, and histories.

Opportunities in medical imaging.

In today’s competitive world, a bachelor’s degree is the basic level for many positions within and outside health care. More important, there are many opportunities outside the traditional ones for medical imaging technologists. The more traditional opportunities that for years have been publicized for medical imaging technologists still hold true, as many several that may not be as immediately apparent, such as health-care management, education, or even sales or clinical applications in imaging. However, there are also other major areas of growth, with multiple jobs, that we should consider on—all of which build on the knowledge and skills acquired in a medical imaging programs. The first area of growth is research, or more specifically, the clinical research associate. Many organizations, pharmaceutical companies, universities, and academic medical centers have positions for clinical research associates. These individuals ensure the compliance of research studies, act as cooperation between groups, implement policies and procedures, and maintain the federal, state, and local files required for research projects. Clinical research associates must be knowledgeable about medical and clinical terminology, be able to complete drug reconciliations and verify protocols, and have the communication and interpersonal skills needed for teamwork and skilled patient care. The one key requirement for these positions is a bachelor’s degree in a clinical or science field. There is also typically a certification process, but usually that can be obtained by the hiring organization. The next area of growth is health informatics. Because each health-care facility will be required to move to electronic medical records, this field is growing by leaps and bounds. Even without this mandate, technology is advancing the field of informatics for health care. Yes, the individual would need to understand and appreciate the computer technology side of health care, but as medical imaging technologists we do possess these skills. The job once thought of for this area is the PACS administrator. Although such positions are still available, there are far greater opportunities in the larger arena of health informatics. These positions require an understanding of clinical workflow and healthcare operations, skill in working with physicians and other health professionals, the ability to provide detailed documentation and reporting, and a focus on quality management. Many of these skills are already required in order for medical imaging technologists to perform their duties or to complete an accredited nuclear medicine technology program. Once again, most of these positions require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. There are also opportunities to gain a certificate in health informatics at many colleges and universities in the world. Although I understand that there may not be a huge number of positions available to the medical technologist outside the very traditional one, I do believe that our profession has grown. The education, knowledge, and skills of our profession have allowed us to be competitive in a variety of professions. Here, I have described some areas linked to medical imaging, and I have seen my own students obtain some of these positions or move on to other programs; however, I am sure there are many other fields requiring the education we have as nuclear medicine technologists. The key is to be optimistic and willing to grow outside the traditional role to a new role that may or may not yet exist. The idea of lifelong learning has never been more critical than it is now as the landscape of medical imaging continues to change.

Emmanuel Ampofo Student radiographer of University of Cape-Coast

Telephone: +233(0)246575581

Email: [email protected]

References

https://www.ahra.org/AHRA/Careers/A_World_of_Career_Opportunities.aspx