MRI Technician Training

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a highly advanced noninvasive technological medical testing equipment. MRI uses a combination of radio frequency pulses, powerful magnetic field and a computer to produce pictures of almost all body parts. Its images are sharper and more detailed than images produced by X-ray, ultrasound or CAT scan. A MRI is used to detect tumors, blockages or enlargements of blood vessels, any cancerous growth or abnormalities. With constant growth in the health care sector, a MRI technician is needed, in almost every hospital and specialty diagnostic center. What qualifications or degrees are required for MRI technician training? The points discussed below will give you an idea on how to specialize for this medical job.

Choosing a MRI technician training program
If one aspires to be a MRI technician, good formal education is the way. Subjects like chemistry, anatomy, physiology, physics, math and microbiology should be studied in high school, and make sure you get good grades. After high school, one will have to enroll in a MRI technician school to get a valid certification. While choosing a school, check for its accredited validation and recognition by the government or the medical body. To verify, if the chosen training school is accredited, consult the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). JRCERT is the only agency recognized by the United States Department of Education for the accreditation of traditional and distance delivery educational programs in magnetic resonance, radiography, etc.

The course duration is generally one year; however if one wishes to pursue further specialization, more short term programs are also available. Your degree will hold no value, if the college has no recognition. Qualified instructors with real-time experience will be an added bonus, as they will combine practicality with theory. Most good MRI technician schools have programs like internship towards the end of the course. This internship period provides the students with hands-on experience essential to the successful completion of the training.

Training course and skills required to become a MRI technician
In a MRI technician training program, one will learn the basics of using imaging equipment, computers and conducting a MRI test. A lot of emphasis is put on learning imaging procedures, radiographic positioning, radiology technology, medical terminology, human anatomy and physiology, patient safety and all other aspects of clinical training.

As most MRIs are recommended to diagnose diseases, the technicians who conduct and give diagnostic reports based on them need to be sensitive to their patients. Most training schools also include a short capsule on soft and people skills too. The correct way of documenting and recording diagnosis are also taught. A complete study of safety procedures to protect self and others from dangers of radiation are also part of the syllabus.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in MRI technician field is set to increase between 18 to 26 percent. The annual MRI technician salary ranges from $45,950 to $62,000, and varies depending upon the location and experience. There are many employment opportunities for MRI technicians in medical facilities and hospitals all over the country. The above MRI technician training details is generic information, and every state may have its own specific requirements for certification.