Who is a medical tech? a medical technologist aids other healthcare professionals by completing routine procedures. To become a medical technician, you typically need at least an associate degree in medical technology, while many medical technology occupations demand a bachelor’s or master’s degree. If you wish to become a medical technician, you should understand more about the different professions and what they do.
What Is Medical Technology?
Medical technology refers to the study of clinical laboratory techniques. Medical technicians undertake standard medical procedures to examine, diagnose, and treat a variety of illnesses. Each medical technician performs a distinct technique depending on their profession.
Top 10 Medical Tech Jobs
If you are thinking of venturing into the field of medical technology, you are on the right part.
Below are top 10 medical tech jobs you should definitely consider:
1. Medical Software Developer
Average annual salary: $109,020
Medical software developers design, develop, and test software applications for healthcare providers, medical devices, and health IT systems. Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field is typically required to land a job as a Medical Software Developer. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree.
The job outlook for the medical software developer role is positive, with a growth rate of 22% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 1,469,200 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
2. Sonographers
Average annual salary: $77,790
Sonographers’ primary responsibilities include performing imaging tests in hospitals and other healthcare settings. They use a variety of devices, including X-rays and ultrasounds, to capture images for diagnostic reasons. Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in sonography or a related program from an accredited institution is required for this job path. Professional certification is also required in most cases
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 14% increase in job growth for sonographers. It will provide 73,300 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
3. Clinical Informatics Specialist
Average annual salary: $ 74,090
Clinical informatics specialists manage and analyze healthcare data, develop information systems, and ensure data security and compliance. Bachelor’s degree in health information management, computer science, or a related field is required for this job. Many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in health informatics, clinical informatics, or a related field.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 7% increase in job growth for clinical informatics specialists. It will provide 344,000 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
4. Medical Device Sales Representative
Average annual salary: $ 70,640
Medical device sales representatives promote and sell medical equipment and devices to healthcare providers, hospitals, and clinics. Bachelor’s degree in a scientific or business-related field is usually required for this job role. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree or relevant sales experience.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 2% increase in job growth for medical device sales representatives. It will provide 1,697,500 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
5. EEG Technologists
Average annual salary: $63,530
EEG technologists use medical equipment to monitor brain activity. They collect data on a patient’s brain function in order to diagnose and treat illnesses such as sleep disorders and epilepsy. Associate’s degree or certificate program in EEG technology or neurodiagnostic technology is required for this career path.
The job outlook for the EEG technologists role is positive, with a growth rate of 8% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 16,300 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
6. Biomedical Equipment Technician
Average annual salary: $51,530
Biomedical equipment technicians install, maintain, and repair medical equipment like defibrillators, ventilators, and imaging machines. Associate’s degree in biomedical equipment technology or a related field is generally required to be hired as biomedical equipment technician. Some employers may accept training programs or military experience as well.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 5% increase in job growth for biomedical equipment technicians. It will provide 48,500 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
7. Surgical Technologist
Average annual salary: $50,170
Surgical technologists prepare operating rooms, arrange equipment, and assist surgeons during surgical procedures. postsecondary non-degree program in surgical technology or an associate’s degree in surgical technology is typically required to land a job as a surgical technologist.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 7% increase in job growth for surgical technologist. It will provide 109,600 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
8. Rehabilitation Technologist
Average annual salary: $47,820
Rehabilitation technologists assist physical therapists and occupational therapists in providing rehabilitation services to patients. You need an associate’s degree in occupational therapy assisting to land a job as a rehabilitation technologist.
The job outlook for the rehabilitation technologist role is positive, with a growth rate of 7% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 147,800 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
9. Health Information Technician:
Average annual salary: $46,590
Health information technicians organize, manage, and protect electronic health records and patient information. An entry-level job in Health information technician requires an associate’s degree in health information technology or a related program.
The job outlook for the health information technician role is positive, with a growth rate of 8% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 147,800 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
10. Pharmacy technicians
Average annual salary: $45,000
Pharmacy technicians’ primary responsibilities include stocking and distributing medications at pharmacies, as well as assisting pharmacists. They also locate and label medications. High school diploma or equivalent and completion of a pharmacy technician program or on-the-job training is required for this job. Some states require certification or licensing.
The job outlook for the Pharmacy technicians role is positive, with a growth rate of 4% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 420,100 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Educational Requirements for Medical Tech Jobs
Medical technology is a rapidly evolving field, and professionals in this domain need to have a solid educational foundation to succeed. Most jobs in medical tech requires at least an assiociate’s degree in related field.
Many medical tech jobs require specific certifications or licenses to practice. For instance, biomedical equipment technicians may need to obtain certifications from organizations like the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI).
Clinical informatics specialists and health information technicians may need to obtain certifications from professional bodies like the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
Skills for Medical Tech Jobs
Successful medical tech professionals possess a diverse set of skills and competencies, including:
1. Technical Proficiency
Strong technical skills are essential, as medical tech jobs often involve working with complex medical equipment, software, and systems. Professionals must be able to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot various technologies used in healthcare settings.
2. Problem-solving Abilities
Medical tech professionals must have excellent problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues related to medical devices, software, or data systems. They need to be able to analyze problems, gather relevant information, and develop effective solutions.
3. Attention to Detail
Medical technology requires a high level of accuracy and precision, as even minor errors or oversights can have significant consequences. Professionals must be detail-oriented and able to follow protocols and procedures meticulously.
4. Strong Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial in medical tech roles, as professionals often need to interact with healthcare providers, patients, and other stakeholders.They must be able to convey complex technical information clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
Conclusion: Top 10 Medical Tech Jobs
There you have it. Some of the top lucrative medical tech jobs. Remember, some of these jobs require certain qualifications. More so, you need to enhance certain skills to land more juicy positions. Hope this article was of help!
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