MRI Technicians are professionals who are responsible for interpreting physicians’ instructions, explaining MRI procedures to patients, selecting imaging parameters and software options to help adjust an MRI machine, viewing images obtained during an imaging session and keeping records of the results. They also perform the tasks like manoeuvring examination equipment, preparing patients for medical procedures, moving disabled patients onto examination tables from wheelchairs and positioning them for imaging.
MRI Technicians’ profession is on the fore in today’s time as there are many institutes providing courses for becoming Technician in this field. They also need many skills and up to date with changing technologies with the passage of time.
MRI Technician Eligibility
The minimum educational qualification for becoming eligible to MRI Technician is 12th class in science stream with Radiology as one of the subjects.
MRI Technician Required Skills
- MRI technicians need exceptional communication skills both written and verbal and must be sensitive to patients’ psychological and physical needs.
- They should be able to pay attention to detail, possess the capacity to understand and comply with physicians’ instructions and must be team players.
- They must have sufficient stamina to be able to stay on their feet during the entire workday, and sufficient physical strength needed in manoeuvring patients and manual dexterity in operating the controls of an MRI machine and manipulating table straps.
- They should also b able to instruct patients regarding where to lie on MRI stretcher; communicate procedure to patients and provide instructions for them.
How to become an MRI Technician?
One has to follow below-given steps for becoming an MRI Technician-
Step 1
Candidates who are looking into a possible career in the medical field and looking for ways on how to become an MRI Technician need to look into continuing their education. Candidates need at least two years of continued education with a focus on Radiology. Some of the courses both undergraduate and postgraduate are given below.
Diploma courses:
- Diploma in Medical Radiology
- Diploma in Radiology and Imaging Technology
- Diploma in Radiology Therapy (D.M.R.T.)
Educational qualification-
For Diploma courses, students should be 10th or 12th class pass in science stream.
Masters’ Degree courses:
- M.D. (Radiology)
- M.Sc. (Veterinary Surgery & Radiology)
Educational qualification-
For postgraduate courses, they should be graduation pass in science stream with Radiology as one of the subjects. There are many reputed institutes which conducts entrance tests for admission in their courses. It means admission criteria varies from institutes to institutes and place to place.
Institutes offering Courses for MRI Technician
- Sanjeevni Institute of Paramedical Sciences, Panchkula.
- Era's Lucknow Medical College, Lucknow.
- Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences University, Ahmednagar.
MRI Technician Job Description
MRI Technicians use sophisticated equipment in order to scan 3D images of a patient's body and internal organs. They are not only trained in operating MRI equipment and documenting the results but also they provide coaching for patients who are claustrophobic or anxious about going through the procedure. They use their communication skills in order to inform the patient about the procedure and give specific instructions on where to lie down on the equipment.
MRI Technician Career Prospects
The MRI Technician profession is a very attractive career because of its substantial starting salary, projected growth, stable career qualities and opportunities for continuing education. They are needed in every health care setting such as working in a large hospital, a suburban outpatient clinic or a rural physician's office. The boundaries of your career in MRI Technician career are determined only by your own abilities and interests.
MRI Technician Salary
The salary of MRI Technician depends on his skills and experiences. It may vary from place to place but normally they are paid Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 25,000 per month. They can earn much more this if they have their own hospital or clinic.
