Challenges and Rewards of Being a Medical Technologist

 

Since many years ago, technology and medicine have coexisted. Many improvements and millions of lives have been saved because of ongoing medical and pharmaceutical advancements. It's impossible to predict what medical advancements may occur next as time goes on and new healthcare technology improves.

Let’s explore the challenges and rewards of being a medical technologist and how to best prepare for a career in this field!

What is Medical Technology?

Medical technology is a field of science and technology that focuses on the development of medical instruments and equipment used in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. It involves an array of technologies, including.

• Imaging 
• Diagnostics 
• Laboratory testing
• Medical devices

It has enabled doctors to diagnose and treat diseases more accurately, quickly, and cost-effectively. It has also allowed for the development of new treatments and therapies that have improved the quality of life for many patients. 

Who is a Medical Technologist?

Medical technologists are highly educated, highly skilled scientists who conduct tests to assist doctors in diagnosing and treating diseases.

Medical technologists, also called 

• Medical laboratory scientists
• Clinical laboratory technologists 
• Technicians 

From 2019 to 2029, the employment of medical technologists will increase by 5%, which is faster than the average for most other professions.

Qualification to Become a Medical Technologist

• Science Background - To become a medical technologist, candidates must complete their 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Biology or Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
• Earn a degree - Getting a degree is the next step in becoming a medical technologist. The most crucial step is picking an undergraduate degree program that satisfies the educational and laboratory requirements for the desired professional path.
• Additional Certifications - Medical technologists can complete online certification courses to gain additional value to their resume. You can get a certification by enrolling in the PG program in medical technology offered by Skill-Lync.
• Gain licensure - Aspiring medical technologists might have to pass a licence test according to the state where they want to work. 12 states demand MTs to hold valid licences, according to the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

Medical Technologist as a Rewarding Career

Being a medical technologist is a challenging but rewarding profession. The rewards of being a medical technologist are many. 

1. Growing Field

• The medical technologist field is expected to encounter a total of 14% job growth between the year 2012 and the year 2022.
• Medical technologists also have the opportunity to work in various settings, from hospitals to research laboratories. 

2. Higher Salary

• Medical technologists typically have higher salaries than many other healthcare professionals, and the job offers great job security.
• Medical technologists also have the potential to earn bonuses and other financial incentives, making the job even more attractive.  
• A medical technologist's salary range in the United States is between $66,000 and $78,000.

3. Diversified Work 

• They also can work with cutting-edge technologies and help make a difference in patients' lives. 
• Medical technologists might also work in research labs, industrial labs, and clinics.
• For example, a medical technologist must complete an easy pregnancy test. They might also be required to track how patients react to an antibiotic drug therapy regimen.

4. Opportunity to Help Others

• Medical technologists must also be able to handle a large workload. 
• It includes the satisfaction of helping others. Medical technologists can take pride in their work and their positive impact on people’s lives. 
• Medical technologists enjoy a great deal of job satisfaction.

5. Supervise and Train Others

• They might get the opportunity to supervise or train other staff.
• This has the ability to be rewarding while also increasing the effectiveness of the medical facility.

It requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to learning. Medical technologists can enjoy a successful and rewarding career with the right attitude and dedication. The job requires much knowledge and skill, but the rewards are worth the effort.

Challenges of Being a Medical Technologist

Being a medical technologist can be a rewarding career, but it also comes with challenges. Here are some of the challenges that medical technologists may face: 

1. Keeping Up with Technology

• Medical technology constantly evolves, and medical technologists must stay current with the latest advancements. 
• This can be challenging, as medical technologists must balance their time between learning new technology and performing their regular duties. The best solution to overcome this is to take an online course so that medical technologists can learn at their own pace.

2. Stressful Working Conditions

• Medical technologists often work in high-stress environments, such as hospitals and emergency rooms.
• They may be required to work long hours and be on call for emergencies or stand for a long period of time.

3. Dealing with Difficult Patients

• Medical technologists may be required to work with difficult patients, such as those who are uncooperative or have mental health issues. 
• This can be a challenge, as medical technologists must be able to remain professional and provide the best possible care. 

4. Working with Limited Resources

• Medical technologists may be required to work with limited resources, such as outdated equipment or a lack of supplies.
• This can be a challenge, as medical technologists must be able to make the most of what they have. 

5. Strict Regulations

• Medical technologists must adhere to strict regulations and guidelines the government and other organisations set.
• This can be a challenge, as medical technologists must be able to stay current on the latest regulations and guidelines. 

Conclusion

With the right attitude and dedication, medical technologists can find a rewarding career that provides them with both personal and professional satisfaction.

To get a deeper understanding of medical technology and medical technologists' job, check out the courses such as PG Program in Medical Technology and Bioengineering & Medical Device Technology by Skill-Lync. Talk with our career experts to book your free demo sessions and know more!