Health Care Careers

Radiology Technologists and Technicians

A popular, rewarding and fast growing career in the Health Care field is in Radiology or specifically Radiologic Technologists and Technicians.  According to the Department of Labor, employment opportunities in Radiologic Technology are highly favorable and projected to be in large demand and grow at a greater than average pace.  Although hospitals remain the primary employers for Radiologic Technicians and Technologists, a number of new jobs will be found in emerging diagnostic imaging offices and physicians’ offices.

The primary responsibility of a Radiologic technologist is to take x-rays and administer non-radioactive materials into patients’ bloodstreams for diagnostic purposes.  They produce x-ray films or radiographs for physicians to use in diagnosing medical problems.  They fully prepare the patient for their radiologic examination by explaining the procedure step-by-step and ensuring all preparations are completed prior to administering the radiologic tests.

Technicians must adhere to physicians’ orders precisely and conform to regulations regarding the use of radiation to protect themselves, their patients, and their fellow coworkers from unnecessary exposure to x-rays.  Not only do Radiologic technologists perform x-rays, they also are responsible to keep patient records and adjust and maintain the equipment.  They may also prepare work schedules, evaluate equipment purchases or even manage a radiology department.

Some radiographers specialize in (CT) or Computed Tomography, x-rays that produce multiple cross-sectional x-rays of an area of the body.  Radiographers can also specialize in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) which produces a three dimensional image of the x-rayed area in multiple cross-sectional x-rays similar to CT.  Mammography is another popular specialization, which utilizes low dose x-rays systems to produce images of the breast.  Physical stamina is important too as radiology technicians may be on their feet for extended periods and may also be required to move and turn patients who are disabled or incapacitated.

Certification

Formal training programs in radiography are offered in hospitals, colleges and universities, and less frequently at vocational-technical institutes and can range in length from 1 to 4 years.  These programs lead to a certificate, an associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree, depending on the program you choose.

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers voluntary certification for Radiologic Technologists.  Additionally, thirty-five states currently use ARRT administered exams for State licensing purposes.  To be eligible for certification the technologist must graduate from an accredited program and pass the State examination.  Also, to be re-certified, radiographers must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years.

Advancement

As with any career, experience and additional training will open doors which will allow the technologist to advance and become specialists performing CT, MRI, Angiographies, and other related procedures.  They may also promoted to supervisory positions within their specific department; chief Radiologic technologist and ultimately a department director or administrator.  Some technologists specialize in a specific occupation and become instructors or directors in radiologic technology programs, or may even work as sales representatives with radiologic equipment manufacturers.

• Read More »

In any area of health care careers the support staff for a given health care profession plays a significant role. More and more everyday, doctors, radiologists, pharmacists and health care professionals continue to add support staff and this creates opportunities for persons wanting to enter the health care profession. An area that continues to explode in opportunity is pharmacy technicians.

Pharmacy technicians help licensed Pharmacists provide medication and other health care products to patients. Pharmacy technicians who work in retail pharmacies typically have a wide range of responsibilities, depending on individual state laws and regulations. Pharmacy technicians may receive written prescriptions from patients or from a doctor’s office fax. They are charged with the responsibility of making sure information is accurate in every detail.

Depending on the individual pharmacists may request that technicians, count pour , fill or mix a medication. Once the prescription is filled the pharmacist then verifies and checks before it is given to the patient. Pharmacy technicians may also serve in the role of a administrative assistant, cashier or just about anything else. In hospital or nursing home setting, the role of the pharmacy technician may be expanded to include delivery of medications after being checked by the pharmacist .Work schedules can be very flexible , but often mirror that of the pharmacist

Training

A number of pharmacy technicians receive on the job training, however as is the case with most health care careers and professions, prospective employers will favor those applicants with formal training and certification. A background in interpersonal skilles and customer service will strengthen the candidate’s position for hiring.

Formal training for pharmacy technicians includes classroom and laboratory work in a diverse number of areas, including medical and pharmaceutical terminology, pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy record keeping, pharmaceutical techniques, and pharmacy law and ethics. Technicians also are required to learn medication names, actions, uses, and doses.

Presently certification may not be necessary in most states, however as stated most pharmacists prefer candidates to be certified. Often pharmacists will hire and train with the condition that the certification be obtained over a prescribed amount of time. Pharmacy technicians are have the opportunity to advance and some become pharmacists themselves.

Job Opportunities

Excellent opportunities are expected for full-time and part-time work as a Pharmacy Technician, especially for technicians with formal training or previous experience. Job openings for pharmacy technicians will result from the aforementioned need for support staff and the expanding pharmaceutical industry . Salary ranges are dependent on location, certification and experience.

• Read More »

Careers in medical fields are full of responsibilities and opportunities . Medical careers are perfect for people who enjoy helping others.  Health care careers are not affected by economic downturns that affect any other industry.  Health care and medical careers are very popular right now. Medical careers are some of the most personally rewarding, and stable, in the job market today. One of those careers in a MRI Technician.

The demand for MRI Technicians is at an all-time high. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technicians are trained to administer MRI procedures to patients. MRI technicians use imaging equipment with patients to acquire images of hard and soft body tissue. The MRI images are examined by doctors to assess, diagnose and determine a course of action for their patients Technicians need to be trained first in a Magnetic resonance imaging school before working in hospitals and clinics as MRI specialist.

Depending on what life stage you are presently the baseline for becoming an MRI technician is first obtaining an Associate Degree in radiology. High school students should prepare by taking courses in anatomy, biology and physiology. This will provide the foundation necessary for completing the training required for becoming an MRI technician. However, if you are past your high school days, most associate programs will provide this course work in your first year.

Upon completion and graduation from a radiology technology degree program you then must also complete certification programs that provide one to two years of specific training in MRI technology. Most states require licensing and at the end of your training you will earn your license by successfully passing an exam, similar to what the nurses do and your career as a MRI Technician will be underway. Those presently working  the health care field may find employers eager to help with continuing education for becoming a MRI Technician

Not only will you be enjoying your work, but also financially MRI Techs and X-ray Techs can expect to earn a very respectable wage. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists completed a salary survey. The salary varies, depending on your experience, training and geographical location. For example, ‘the annual income of a RT in Arkansas is $46.000. With additional training, and licensing in MRI scanning, the salary is $57.424. In New York the average RT salary is $58,063. With MRI licensing, it is $64.136.As a bonus you will do what you love and love what you are doing.

• Read More »

So you want to be a nurse? You are to be commended for your decision. It probably wasn’t an easy decision but nursing can be one of the most rewarding career choices in the medical profession. I am sure you have asked all the questions that were relevant to your individual decision to become a nurse. The sacrifices are many when entering the nursing profession. There will be long hours and hard work. Now that your decision has been made choosing a nursing school program is your next step.

There are many factors to consider when choosing a nursing school. Different factors are important to different prospective students, so you want to make sure you choose a school that matches your career goals

Finding a school that will help set your career up for success is the first important choice for your nursing school programs education. Research nursing school programs and create a list of pros and cons for each of your top choices.

Choosing a nursing school program may seem like a easy decision but you must weigh many factors in your decision. Location of the school, cost of your education, class size, clinical rotations are just a few of the factors when deciding which nursing school program is right for you and your family.

Financial aid for nursing school programs is available at most schools. Depending on the type of degree you are going to pursue, these costs can range from affordable to expensive.
It is likely that once you are enrolled in a nursing school program the commitment necessary to complete your education will require you to limit your hours of a regular job. So costs considerations are not to be taken lightly.
Do not let the cost of nursing school programs discourage you from fulfilling your dream. Read more on our pages about how you can enroll in a nursing school program today

• Read More »

Health Care has been one of the fastest growing industries for years and is a trend that is expected to continue according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Another great career choice within the health care profession is a Dental Hygienist.

Dental Hygienists are in high demand and are licensed health care professionals who promote and support oral health and wellness.  They treat patients on oral hygiene and educate their patients on preventive oral care. The dental hygienist is the dentist’s’ first line of defense against gum disease and other oral diseases and assist in the treatment and care of the patients’ teeth and gums.

Hygienists examine a patient’s oral cavity and adjacent areas removing hard and soft deposits from teeth and provide other preventive dental care. The dental hygienist removes plaque, calculus, and stains from teeth, expose and develop dental X-rays, apply cavity-prevention agents such as fluorides and sealants, and in some states they are licensed to administer local anesthetics and nitrous oxide and perform other functions generally associated with being a dentist.  Dental hygienists also prepare clinical and laboratory tests for the dentist to interpret and work chair-side with the dentist during treatment.

Dental Hygienists earn exceptional incomes based on the highly flexible hours they work.  Often Hygienists work only two or three days a week and have the flexibility to earn more by working in other offices or can spend more time with their families as their jobs don’t require them to work typical full time hours.

If you would like more information on careers that are in high demand, check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics for more information on the health care careers and other in-demand professions.  It is a great resource and has tons of information available to research and explore.

• Read More »

The Nursing shortage has existed for some time. The nursing shortage will always exist. Some of the reasons are an exploding ,consequently , more and more need for health care professionals. Many RN”S begin their careers as Nurses Aides and LPNS. Many hospitals provide continuing education resources as an impetus for eventually becoming a Registered Nurse.
Eventually you will have to choose a nursing school program in which to enroll and you experience as a nurses aide will aide you as you narrow down your choices. Becoming a LPN , Licensed Practical Nurse usually requires a one year course of study from a vocational school or junior college. The Licensed Practical Nurse usually works under the supervision of a physician or RN and usually has more advanced skills than the nursing assistant can

The next step is becoming a Registered Nurse and requires a higher level of education requiring a AND or BSN degree,. There is much debate on which program Nursing should require , but as of now either is available. However, if your desire to continue on your health career the BSN nursing school programs are recommended. Hospitals pay according to education so financially the benefits are obvious.

• Read More »

The Health care industry provides opportunity for anyone and everyone to experience a career where you can have an impact. You can do what you love and love what you are doing. Want to be a Nurse? We will provide information on how you can get started. It does not matter what field you choose we will point you on a path for success. How about an MRI Technician ? The options are virtually endless. Being a health care professional is a meaningful occupation. This resource pages listed here are a road map to those careers, providing important information on the educational requirements and skills needed for positions in nearly every health care profession, from patient care to technology to business. No matter your level of education you can choose a new career today and start your journey, towards that real health care career you have always wanted.

• Read More »