The job title of medical technician refers to a wide range of fields in health care, such as dentistry, pharmacy and general medicine. They are also called allied health professionals. In general terms, medical technicians are in charge of operating specialized tools and equipment and administering tests on patients. They may also be trained to administer simple procedures on patients, as an assistant to doctors and nurses. With so many different options, there are a lot of opportunities to those who choose this rewarding career path.
Here are some steps to help you learn more if you are interested in becoming a medical technician:
- Know if you have what it takes to be a medical technician. First of all, know that a medical technician’s hours may be long and hectic, so you’d need to have lots of stamina and energy in order to be successful on the job. Medical technicians should also be able to think on their feet, especially in settings which require them to work in emergency situations. They should also have a knack for understanding the operations of tools and equipment, as well as for doing troubleshooting and repairs. In most cases, you will serve as an expert in your respective field, with regards to operating and caring for equipment.
- Know the different types of medical technicians. As mentioned before, the term medical technician encompasses different fields in healthcare. These are just a few of the specific job descriptions of medical technicians:
- Surgical technicians help prepare operating room environments and assist surgeons during the actual surgery. They are responsible for ensuring a safe working environment for both the medical staff and the patient. Average wage for this job is about $38,000 a year with a job growth of 25% through the year 2018.
- A medical lab technician generally performs tests on specimens such as body fluids, skin samples and blood, using specialized equipment. They are also trained in collecting these samples, analyzing them and storing them. There are many specializations within this field; for example, a medical laboratory technician may specialize in blood analysis and collection only, while some may focus solely on testing urine samples. The job requirements will differ from one location to another depending on what the scope of practice is within a specific facility. The highest earnings are in hospital settings with an average of $18.50 per hour.
- Radiology and ultrasound technicians operate large equipment and perform tests such as X-rays, CAT scans, ultrasound and MRIs. One can anticipate a yearly salary of $52,000 a year; the highest 10% earning over $74,000.
- An emergency medical technician (EMT) is trained to administer first aid, and is also trained to transport patients to hospitals and do procedures to stabilize a patient’s condition. They work mainly in ambulance companies and fire departments. Earnings are dependent on the location and how “dangerous” the typical job is. For example, those who work in helicopter lift companies can expect to earn more than someone who works in an ambulance. A good starting wage is around $12.00 to $18.00 per hour. Some emergency departments within hospitals are employing more EMTs to be on their staff.
- Acquire your high school diploma. It’s best to start early in acquiring the necessary skills for a profession in healthcare. In some instances, a diploma is required to be employed in an entry level position. Sign up for subjects and electives in the sciences, such as biology, chemistry and physics, as well as math, communications and computer programming. During high school, you might also have the time to volunteer at a local hospital, so you would get a feel of how it is to work in the healthcare industry.
- Get your undergraduate degree. When trying to figure out how to become a medical technician, know that there are many routes to take depending on the type of setting in which you want to work. The most popular route for medical technician training is via an associate’s degree in the sciences. Make sure that the program you enroll in has been accredited by their respective accrediting agency for their discipline. Some related associate’s degrees available include: medical assisting, allied health science and health care administration.
- Get your certification. To be able to work as a medical technician in your chosen field, it’s important that you get certified by a nationally recognized certifying body. These agencies have their own specific requirements to sit for their examination. Going through one of these agencies will show potential employers that you meet the requirements for that particular credential. Some of the organizations that offer certification include the National Certification Agency for Medical Laboratory Personnel and American Medical Technologists. Becoming a Certified Medical Tech is very important for your career. Always contact your State Board of Health to find the appropriate requirements for licensing within that area.
These are some of the steps toward becoming a medical technician or allied health professional. Medical technician colleges—including accredited online schools—can get you the training you’ll need to have a great career in this rewarding field.
Those with a completed certification will have an advantage over those who do not. Medical technician jobs are available in local and national markets for those who take the time to look for these opportunities.