Medical Radiation Technologists Demand – Job Opportunities in Canada

MRT plays an indispensable role in delivering health care services in Canada by using advanced radiation technology to assist in disease diagnosis, therapy, and prevention. They are trained professionals who perform diagnostic imaging procedures such as X-rays, CT scans (Computed Tomography Scan), MRIs (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and radiation therapy. In this unit group, Medical radiation technologists who are clinical instructors or supervisors are also included. They are employed in various settings such as hospitals, radiological laboratories, cancer treatment centres, clinics, colleges, and universities. MRTs are essential in providing accurate imaging data that help doctors make informed decisions regarding patient care.

Requirements

To become a Medical Radiation Technologist in Canada, you typically need to complete the following requirements:

• Complete a recognized educational program that involves a 2-3 year diploma or degree program in
  • Diagnostic Radiography or Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Radiological Technologists and Magnetic Resonance Technologists,
  • Nuclear Medicine Technology for Nuclear Medicine Technologists, or
  • Radiation therapy for Radiation Therapists, or
  • Bachelor of Health Sciences in Radiography,
  • Bachelor of Health Sciences in Nuclear Medicine, or
  • Bachelor of Health Sciences in Radiation Therapy.
• Undergo a period of supervised practical training.
• Obtain certification after completing the educational program. MRTs must pass the certification exam administered by the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT).
• Some provinces and territories may require additional licensing or registration with their respective regulatory bodies.

Job Titles

• Mammography Technician
• Nuclear Medicine Technologist
• Nuclear Medicine Technologist Supervisor
• Nuclear Medicine Clinical Instructor
• Radiation Oncology Technologist
• Radiation Therapist
• Radiation Therapy Technologist (RTT)
• Radiation Therapy Clinical Instructor
• Radiological Technologist
• Radiotherapy Technician
• X-ray Technician

Main Duties

• Operate imaging equipment such as X-ray machines, CT scanners, MRIs, and mammography units to obtain images of the body for diagnostic purposes.
• Prepare patients for imaging procedures, explaining the process, positioning them correctly, and ensuring their comfort and safety.
• Follow strict protocols to ensure the safety of patients, themselves, and other staff members by using appropriate radiation protection measures.
• Record and process the patient’s data as well as the results of procedures. They document imaging procedures and provide information to the healthcare team regarding patient imaging history.
• May supervise student MRTs or other Medical radiation technologists including radiological technologists, nuclear medicine technologists, radiation therapists, or magnetic resonance technologists.
• In the field of radiation therapy, MRTs work with oncologists to administer radiation treatment to cancer patients, ensuring the correct dosage and precision.