Medical imaging jobs, such as ultrasound, radiology, and nuclear medicine, can vary greatly from one to the next. Medical imaging careers can also have a wide range of specialties in addition to these fields. Departments such as cardiology, gynecology, and other specialized departments employ technologists, technicians, and assistants.
Radiology primarily deals with x-ray procedures; specialties include computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (MRI). Radiologists, radiographers, assistants, and technologists are some of the most common medical imaging jobs. Technologists and technicians may only need an associate’s degree or training from an approved vocational program, whereas radiologists, radiographers, and assistants often need a more advanced degree. Training programs vary in length and type depending on the region and employer. Hospitals and physician offices are common places to work.
Another department that uses medical imaging is ultrasound, which employs frequency wave imaging to aid in the diagnosis of disease or disorder in a patient. Hospitals and clinics are the most common employers of ultrasound technicians, who are referred to as technologists or assistants depending on the facility. Obstetrics, gynecology, and mammography are some of the most common ultrasound specialties. Hospitals, physician’s offices, and specialty offices may all have job openings. Vocational programs, diploma programs, and various degree programs may be used to meet the minimum educational requirements.
Another type of medical imaging job is nuclear medicine, which is similar to x-ray technology. The use of radioactive drugs known as radiopharmaceuticals is a significant difference between these two areas. Prior to imaging tests, these compounds are injected into the body to provide contrast and detect illness. The primary responsibility of the nuclear medical technologist or technician is to administer radiopharmaceuticals to the patient and, on occasion, to perform the actual tests. These positions have slightly different educational requirements; for example, people with ultrasound or radiology tech training can often be certified to work in nuclear medicine.
A medical imaging employee may be responsible for a variety of other tasks in addition to testing. Medical imaging jobs also include clerical responsibilities such as file maintenance and communication with other healthcare professionals. Education, training, employment opportunities, and titles are all regional and facility-specific aspects of job descriptions.