Medical imaging careers are one of the hottest options currently in the health care field. These jobs, which find professionals working with imaging technology (like x-rays and ultrasound) to help diagnose and treat various conditions, provide high rates of pay and great job stability—making them appealing to individuals of all backgrounds.

If this is a field you’re considering, you may want to look at the different kids of positions and training programs available in the medical imaging field.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

Diagnostic medical sonographers use sound waves to create images of patients. This is done primarily through the use of ultrasound (which most people associate with obstetrics). However, although pregnant women make up a large portion of the clientele, ultrasound is used to diagnose and treat conditions in the abdomen and vascular system, as well.

Diagnostic medical sonography typically requires training in an accredited program (which ranges in length from two to four years), and earn an average of $45,000 per year. Most employers require that you complete the test and requirements to become registered in the field.

Magnetic Resonance Technology

Magnetic resonance technology is more commonly known as MRI, which uses magnets to create images of the human body. The job requires a solid base of medical training as well as a good working knowledge of computer technology. MR technologist training typically builds on a degree and license in radiography, nuclear medicine technology, or radiation therapy, all of which are four-year degrees. This educational investment pays off, however, in an average salary of $54,000 per year.

Almost all professionals will need to be registered through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and attend a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

Medical Dosimetrist

Medical dosimetrists are part of the larger radiation oncology team. They are the ones responsible for administering the treatment to the body and, in many cases, designing the treatment method in accordance with the doctor prescription. This is a highly specialized and technical job, and comes with weighty responsibilities. For example, many treatment plans use MRI or CT scans or other forms of 3D technology.

The training program to become a medical dosimetrist is around 18 months, which may or may not be built upon an existing four-year degree as a radiation therapy technologist. Most professionals must become a certified medical dosimetrist or medical physicist in order to work in the field.

Other career options in the medical imaging field include nuclear medicine, various forms of radiology, and the supplemental support workers who help make all these jobs possible. For good pay, great opportunities, and challenging work, medical imaging is one of the best career fields to consider.

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