Nuclear Medicine Technician - myFootpath

Nuclear Medicine Technician Basics
Nuclear medicine differs significantly from other medical imaging technologies because of the nature of the imaging procedure. Whereas technologies such as x-ray or ultrasound involve assessing the physical structure of organs, tissues, and other body parts, nuclear medicine actually measures the way specific areas of the body react to the introduction of small radioactive particles. These particles, known as radionuclides, will cause an excess or deficiency of radioactivity in certain areas of the body, helping doctors diagnose certain diseases.

Nuclear medicine technologists, after introducing radionuclides, scan the body for such areas and produce a photograph to aid in diagnoses. Because of the proximity to radioactive materials, workers must be especially careful to protect themselves and patients from radiation. A career in nuclear medicine can be fulfilling and purposeful-these technologists do extremely important and valuable diagnostic work.

How to Get a Degree in Nuclear Medicine Technology
There are a variety of pathways to becoming a nuclear medicine technician. Some universities offer stand-alone, four year Bachelor’s degrees in nuclear medicine. Alternatively, many other colleges and universities, including community colleges offer Associate’s degrees in nuclear medicine. Finally, certificate and diploma programs are offered by some hospitals to prospective technologists with healthcare experience, especially experience in other medical imaging technologies.

There is no one licensure process for nuclear medicine technicians; instead, it varies from state to state. In many states, completion of certain educational programs in nuclear medicine is recognized by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) as part of certification.

In some cases, one or both of these organizations will recognize healthcare experience or Bachelor’s degrees in certain scientific disciplines as an acceptable substitute for specific nuclear medicine coursework. Regardless of educational path, completion of certification will require the passing of an exam through either organization.

Compatible Personality Traits
Careful, meticulous, studious, patient, active, energetic, observant, attentive, caring, understanding, charismatic, perceptive.

Salary Expectations for Nuclear Medicine Technicians
According to the department of labor, the median salary for nuclear medicine technicians is $66,660 a year. Pay rates, however, do vary depending on experience. Nuclear medicine technicians in their first four years on the job have a median annual salary of $57,301, while those with five to nine years’ experience make a median annual salary of $63,831.

Job Outlook for Nuclear Medicine Technicians
As with other medical imaging specialties, there is excellent growth potential in nuclear medicine. The Department of Labor estimates 15% job growth for nuclear medicine technicians. The availability of jobs in the field will also depend on the rate at which new technologies are adopted by healthcare providers.

Slightly Off the Footpath
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Source: bls.gov/oes/current/oes292033.htm