How the Medical Technology Major Prepares You for the Job Market
Medical technology is becoming increasingly important, especially with the advance of medical science and the boom in the population. As more and more people grow older, more physicians and health care facilities will be needed to tend to the escalating population. In addition, with medical technology becoming more sophisticated than ever in terms of medical equipment and diagnostic capabilities, health care providers will actively seek out new employees who are well-versed in medical technology to help health care facilities move into the modern age. Medical technology majors are often passionate about health care, and desire to tackle a rewarding and challenging health care role. Medical technology majors take courses in general, analytical, biological, and organic chemistry, immunology, genetics, and other topics related to understanding the complex immune system and body composition of human beings. This educational background, coupled with the lab work and field work that many students participate in, sets medical technology majors up with the general and technical skills needed to successfully join the work force upon graduation.
Best Career Paths for Medical Technology Majors
Medical technology opens up the door to many rewarding job opportunities. The best career paths for medical technology majors are:
- Medical Assistance. Medical assistants are responsible for performing the routine duties that keep healthcare facilities running smoothly. They typically report to a health care manager, taking care of paperwork, scheduling, and other tasks. Medical assistants also sterilize medical equipment, carry out basic laboratory tests, arrange patient examination appointments, talk with patients about treatment details, and perform many other duties as well. The specific duties of a medical assistant largely depends on the trade in which they work. For example, the specific duties of a medical assistant who works with a general practitioner may vary from the specific duties of a medical assistant working with an ophthalmologist. Medical assistants make an average salary of $28,300 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Clinical Laboratory Technologist. Clinical laboratory technologists have a host of important duties. They use computer technology to analyze fluid and cell samples for microorganisms such as bacteria and parasites, test blood samples for drug levels in order to determine how someone is reacting to a treatment, and carry out many other actions that help physicians reach a conclusive diagnosis. Technologists must use their problem-solving and analytical skills to effectively search for clues to a patientís condition in the samples provided. Clinical laboratory technicians earn an average salary of $53,500 annually, according to the Bureau.
How to Market Your Medical Technology Degree
You worked hard to earn your medical technology degree. To make the most out of your education, you need to prove to potential employers that your education makes you the most qualified candidate for the job. Emphasize what your degree in medical technology says about your character. For example, earning a degree in medical technology shows that you are interested in staying at the forefront of medical developments, especially in the technology sector, as you decided to base your professional education on the technological aspect of medicine. Your medical technology degree also gives you the analytical skills needed in the field, as well as the computer know-how that will make you a productive member of the health care facility. Proving that the knowledge and skills you obtained during your studies can be translated into real-world work is the best way to market your medical technology degree.
