A medical radiation technologist is a specialized professional who uses radiation therapy to treat cancer and other diseases. Medical radiation technologists may work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities. Many medical radiation technologists also receive continuing education to keep up with the latest advances in radiation therapy.
What is a Medical Radiation Technologist?
A medical radiation technologist (MRT) is a healthcare professional who helps to administer and interpret radiation therapy treatments. They work in oncology, cardiology, gynecology, and pediatrics. A typical day for an MRT would involve the following:
- Checking patients’ dosages.
- Preparing them for treatment.
- Following up with patients after their treatment.
- Ensuring that the treatments are safe.
To become an MRT, you will need a degree in medical radiation technology or another related field and experience working with radiation therapy. You will also be required to pass an American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam.
Job duties of a Medical Radiation Technologist
Medical radiation technologists (MRT) manage and deliver radiation therapy to patients. They typically work in hospitals, clinics, or other medical facilities.
A medical radiation technologist may be responsible for tasks such as scanning patients for diseases that may require radiation treatment, calculating the precise dose of radiation necessary to fight the disease, loading and handling radioactive materials, monitoring the patient’s health during treatment, or assembling and operating various types of equipment used in radiotherapy.
Medical radiation technologists typically possess a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. They must also have certification from one of the international organizations that certify MRTs.
Medical radiation technologists typically work full-time but may also work part-time or freelance. They usually receive a salary and benefits, although salaries vary depending on experience and location.
Education and prerequisites for becoming a MRT
Education and prerequisites for becoming a medical radiation technologist (MRT) include a bachelor’s degree in sciences, preferably physics or radiation technology, and several years of experience in radiation therapy. The MRT certification requires completing an accredited program and passing the National Committee on Radiation Safety Certification (NCRSC) examination.
Some required prerequisites for certification in MRT according to the National Committee on Radiation Safety Certification:
How much does a MRT earn?
An MRT is a professional in the health care industry who performs medical radiation therapy. Medical radiation therapy is a type of treatment that uses powerful radiation to destroy cancerous cells.
MRTs work within the medical field and typically have biology, chemistry, and physics degrees. They must also have completed training in medical radiation therapy techniques. To become an MRT, you must pass a state licensing exam and receive certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
MRTs typically earn around $92,000 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on location and experience.
MRTs are in high demand due to the increasing popularity of medical radiation therapy. If you have a degree in a medical-related field and are interested in becoming an MRT, check out all of your options and meet with potential employers.
Likely future career paths for aMedical Radiation Technologist
Medical radiation technologists (MRT) are professionals who work in the healthcare field and use radiation to treat patients. They often work with other professionals, such as nurses, respiratory therapists, and surgeons, to provide the best possible care for patients.
Medical radiation technologists may have a variety of career paths available to them. They may work in hospitals or clinics as part of a team providing treatment to patients. They may also work in other industries, such as research labs or diagnostic centers. Whatever the path, a medical radiation technologist will need good knowledge and skills in radiation therapy and patient care.
Several training programs are available to help aspiring MRTs gain the skills they need. These programs usually take four years to complete, and upon completion, graduates may find work as radiation technologists in hospitals or clinics.
