Are you interested in using state of the art technology to help doctors determine the root cause of a patent’s illness or physical problem? If so, becoming a MRI Technician may be a good career path for you.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a technology commonly used to help see inside the human body by projecting radio and magnetic waves to help create an image of soft and hard tissues within the body to create a 3 dimensional image. Accurate use of these machines requires intensive training in order to know how to properly work the machines, interpret doctors orders and obtain the clarity needed for Radiologists to be able to use the images for diagnostic purposes. http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos105.htm

MRIs are often used to look for tumors, soft tissue damage and other internal issues that cannot be diagnosed through a standard X-Ray. In addition to the technical aspects of the job, technicians should be skilled at working with patients who may have physical limitations and be nervous about the examination. MRI scans can be intimidating, so being able to calm a patient is a valuable skill.

Most MRI Technicians work in hospitals or outpatient diagnostic centers where the expensive MRI systems reside, but some may work in doctor’s offices. Technicians should have a high physical stamina because they are often required to be on their feet for long periods of time and may need to physically assist patients getting into the MRI machine.

According the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field for MRI Technicians is expected to grow along with the aging U.S. population, with the best opportunities going to individuals who are trained in multiple diagnostic imaging systems. The average earnings of an MRI Technician are over $50,000 and ranged from $35,000 to about $75,000. Actual earnings vary based on experience, education and advancement. http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos105.htm

An MRI career begins with a high school education. Focus on courses in the sciences such as Biology, Physics and Chemistry as well as Math to help provide an excellent foundation for the required training programs and classes you will need to take in the future. Graduate with good grades in order to have more selection in the training program you wish to attend.

The most common educational path to becoming an MRI Technician is through an associate’s degree in radiological technologies concentrating on MRI imaging. The certification programs often last about 2 years. In order to have your degree recognized, it is important to attend one of the 213 programs accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiological Technology.

During the training, students will learn basic procedures and theory through a combination of classroom training and hands-on training. Training will also include interpersonal skills and training with a variety of patient ages and issues. You will also be trained on HIPAA requirements and legal aspects in the health care industry. Common courses during MRI training include Oral Communications, Pathology, Patient Care, Intro to Radiology, medical billing, fluoroscopic equipment, contrast imagery and radiographic procedures.

To work as an MRI Technician in most states, you will be required to log around 1,000 hours of clinical training hours under the direct supervision of a certificated practitioner.http://www.medacademy.com Many training programs offer an internship program that helps place students in training opportunities that help meet the clinical training requirements. If the training program you select does not include a strong internship program, seek out your own opportunities in order to kick-start your career after you complete your training program.

While conducting your clinical training, be sure to observe seasoned MRI technicians in action and note how they handle patients, the equipment and unusual situations. Be sure to ask relevant questions that can help expand your knowledge. Also note how the MRI technician interprets doctor’s orders and how those orders translate into the actual images produced. Whenever possible, try to spot the areas of concern on the MRI and note how to enhance the images to make it easier for the Radiologist to use the images effectively.

While focused on learning, your clinical training also provides a fantastic opportunity to interact with other MRI Technicians and start building a network of connections in the medical field. Even if there are no opportunities at the facility where you conduct your internship, you can make valuable connections to help you land your first job. Act professionally and show how you can put your training to use quickly for maximum impact.

Most states offer a board examination for MRI technology. While the state may not require the examination to work in the field, most employers specify passing at least one of the exams prior to being granted employment. The most widely recognized certification is given by the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists. http://www.armrit.org/index.shtml

The MRI Technologist Examination consists of 3 sections taken over a period of 4 hours. Sections include MR Physics, Clinical Applications and Bioeffects, Safety and Patient Care. The exam is comprised of True/False questions, Multiple Choice, and an anatomical matching section based on actual MRI images. Candidates must pass each section with at least 70% correct to pass the exam. To sit for the exam, you must have received your degree from an ARMRIT accredited training program, have a minimum 1,000 MRI clinical hours, have several letters of recommendation and pay an application fee of $300. If you are claiming experience instead of training by an accredited program you must have four years experience and over 6,240 full-time hours as evidenced through a notarized letter from your Reading Physician or Medical Director. http://www.armrit.org/pdf/app010110.pdf

After passing the certification exam, you will be required to adhere to the ARMRIT code of ethics, stay active in the profession and obtain at least 6 continuing education credits per year and pay the renewal fee.http://www.armrit.org/pdf/app010110.pdf Prospective employers can check your credentials by calling or emailing ARMRIT.