Medical Radiation & Imaging Professionals (MRIPs) are highly trained specialists who perform diagnostic imaging examinations and administer radiation therapy treatments. MRIPs are found in emergency departments, operating rooms, mobile breast screening vans, diagnostic imaging departments and clinics.
In the Canadian healthcare system, MRIPs play key roles in diagnosis and treatment and offer advice to radiologists, radiation oncologists and other healthcare providers. Technologists also work in interventional radiology, assisting with procedures that use imaging to guide catheters, balloons, stents and other tools through the body to diagnose and treat disease without open surgery.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers produce images through high frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to develop images which are used to assess organs, tissue and blood flow inside the body. These exams provide important information to the physician about a patient's condition and assist in the patient's treatment and care plan. (For more information visit www.sonographycanada.ca).
Magnetic Resonance Technologists use magnetic resonance imaging technology to produce extremely clear, detailed images of a patient’s tissues and organs to detect and identify soft tissue (e.g., nerve, muscle) issues, abnormalities and disease processes.
Medical Radiation Therapists specialize in all aspects of radiation therapy during cancer care by operating sophisticated linear accelerators and software to accurately develop and deliver safe treatments using ionizing radiation. CT (acquired), MRI, and PET images are used in the development of patients' plans while working closely with Radiation Oncologists and Medical Physicists to treat patients using precision while supporting the patient and managing side effects.
Medical Radiological Technologists produce images of the patient using ionizing radiation (x-rays). Appropriate and safe use of specialized technology and care for the needs of the patient are two important aspects of their role. General x-rays, fluoroscopy in the operating room, contrast enhanced images such as barium studies and pain management procedures are some of the x-ray examinations performed on patients. Specialist MRTs also perform Mammography, Computed Tomography (CT) and Interventional Radiology.
Nuclear Medicine Technologists have technical expertise in the use of radiopharmaceuticals and radiation physics, allowing them to perform diagnostic imaging procedures with sophisticated technology. Nuclear Medicine Technologists may specialize in Positron Emission Tomography - Computed Tomography (PET/CT) as well.
If you have ever had an x-ray, scan, MRI, nuclear medicine procedure or radiation therapy, you have been in contact with an MRT (For more information visit imageofcare.ca).