In the medical specialty of nuclear medicine, radioactive materials are used to diagnose and treat a variety of diseases. The nuclear medicine technologist’s role is to administer radiopharmaceuticals to patients who are undergoing scans and then create images from the scans. The radiopharmaceuticals, or radioactive drugs, differentiate trouble spots in the body from normal areas on the scan.
Medical teams depend on skilled nuclear medicine technologists, often known as nuclear med techs, to safely administer these drugs and optimize the diagnostic procedure.
Projected demand is strong for nuclear medicine technologists, who primarily work in hospitals but also can be found in physicians’ offices, outpatient facilities and diagnostic laboratories.
Nuclear Medicine Technologist Job Outlook
Nationally, employment opportunities for nuclear medicine technologists are forecast to rise by 19% from 2010 to 2020, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported. The profession will be affected by the same demographic changes that are fueling job growth across the healthcare industry. In other words, with more Americans living longer, there will be a heightened need for medical treatment relating to conditions that require diagnostic imaging, such as cardiovascular disease.
In addition, the BLS notes that more nuclear med techs will be needed to staff the growing number of physicians’ offices and diagnostic labs expected to open in the coming years.
Typical Duties for Nuclear Medicine Technologists
A nuclear medicine technologist’s main responsibility is to perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. These healthcare professionals are relied upon to use good judgment in following radiation protection protocols and caring for patients. Typical job duties include preparing and administering radiopharmaceuticals, operating scanning equipment and monitoring the patient throughout the procedure. Additional duties vary according to the employer’s needs, but usually include:
- Explaining the procedure to patients and answering their questions
- Checking and calibrating equipment for proper function
- Documenting procedures
- Updating patient records
Salary Range for Nuclear Medicine Technologists
According to the BLS, the approximately 20,500 nuclear medicine technologists employed nationwide in May 2012 earned a median annual salary of $70,180. The top 10% of nuclear med techs had a yearly salary of at least $93,320.
Regional market conditions and a job candidate’s employment history and level of educational attainment generally are variables in determining potential salary ranges and job opportunities.
Nuclear Medicine Technologist Education and Training
Although some hospital-based education programs offer certificates in nuclear medicine technology, most employers require techs to have at least an associate’s degree, the BLS reports. Employers may show preference to candidates with a bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine technology. Some individuals become qualified by earning an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a related healthcare field and then completing a shorter program in nuclear medicine technology.
When preparing for a nuclear medicine technologist career, a strong background in biology, math, computer science or physics may be helpful. Coursework typically includes human anatomy and physiology, chemistry, radioactive drugs and physics.
In some states, nuclear med techs must be licensed. Also, some healthcare facilities and providers may require candidates to obtain certification through professional organizations such as the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board.
