| Medical imaging is an allied health career in which individuals utilize science and technology to produce images of various parts of the body. These images are used to diagnose and sometimes treat diseases and injuries in humans and animals. Medical Imaging Technologists with highly specialized education and clinical training perform this work.
Within the medical imaging field, there are several subspecialties requiring varied levels of education , certifications and licensures. Included are: Diagnostic Radiology (“X-ray”), Mammography, Interventional Radiography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), Sonography (Ultrasound), Nuclear Medicine and Radiation Therapy.
From x-rays in the hospital emergency room to Ultrasound in OB, from CT scans and Nuclear Medicine in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease, cancer and other diseases, imaging technology is everywhere in the health care industry.
Medical imaging is a rapidly growing field. There are currently over 30,000 job vacancies in the United States. The Department of Labor predicts that the need for medical imagers will exceed 100,000 by the year 2008.
Most medical imaging degree programs are completed within two years, and are offered at several Boston-area community colleges. Additionally, there are some four-year advanced degree programs offered in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and throughout the country.
Two-year Associate degree graduates can expect starting salaries in excess of $40,000.00 with excellent benefits in the Boston area. Earning potential is significantly increased with advanced training and tenure.
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