What Do They Do?
What Do They Do?
Nuclear medicine technologists (NMTs) use scanners to create images of the body by administering radioactive drugs to patients. These drugs highlight abnormal tissues or organs, aiding in disease detection and treatment. NMTs operate imaging equipment to track the radioactive materials and produce images for physicians to interpret. Unlike other imaging methods, nuclear medicine focuses on metabolic changes rather than structural changes to detect disease.
Where Do They Work?
Where Do They Work?
The majority of NMTs are employed by hospitals, although a smaller number of NMTs are employed in the offices and clinics of physicians or in imaging clinics.
How Much Do They Earn?
How Much Do They Earn?
Annual median salary: $108,016
Entry-level salary: $89,652
For More Information:
New York State Department of Labor Searchable Wage Database: https://dol.ny.gov/occupational-wages-0
Supply and Demand
Supply and Demand
Nuclear medicine technologists are expected to grow statewide by 27% between 2022 and 2032, with 106 average annual openings.
For More Information:
New York State Department of Labor Employment Projections: https://dol.ny.gov/employment-projections
Educational Requirements
Educational Requirements
Nuclear medicine technologists complete education programs ranging from one to four years, leading to a certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree. Some qualify by completing a degree in a related health field, followed by a 1 year certificate in nuclear medicine. Courses cover anatomy, physiology, radiation effects and protection, radiopharmaceuticals, imaging techniques, and computer science. Programs also include clinical experience under certified professionals.
For More Information:
Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology: https://www.jrcnmt.org/programs/
Licensure Requirements
Licensure Requirements
New York does not require NMTs to be licensed though most employers prefer to hire certified NMTs. Individuals wishing to demonstrate proficiency in their occupation may receive certification through national organizations such as the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board, each with different requirements but each needing the passing of a comprehensive exam to become certified. NMTs must meet federal standards for administering radioactive drugs and operating radiation detection equipment. Certified NMTs are required to complete continuing education due to advancements in the field and must register annually with the ARRT and NMTCB.
For More Information:
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists:
https://www.arrt.org/pages/about-the-profession/arrt-certification-and-registration
Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board: https://www.nmtcb.org/exams
Financial Support
Financial Support
Financial support can come from various federal, state, and private sources. Contact your college or university to learn about the financial aid options they offer, as well as other potential sources of funding that may be available.
For More Information:
Society of Nuclear Medicine & Molecular Imaging:
https://snmmi.org/Web/Research-Publications/Grants-Awards-and-Scholarships/Default.aspx