From broken bones, to investigating limb pain to potential blood pressure concerns, patients often see different types of Medical Radiation Technologist (MRTs) when referred for diagnostic imaging by their primary care provider.

The training and technological expertise of an MRT allows them to obtain different types of images of a patient’s bones, vital organs and circulatory systems. This is crucial to informing diagnoses of patients and treatment plans. 

MRTs are experts in radiation therapy and medical imaging, including X-ray, Fluoroscopy, CT scanning, Interventional Radiography, Mammography, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, Bone Densitometry and operating room studies.

Medical Radiation Technologist Week is a time to recognize MRTs for their expertise in their field and compassionate care they deliver to Manitobans. The role of an MRT spans diverse areas of the health system and is a critical part of supporting patient treatment and care.

Dr. Marco Essig, Provincial Specialty Lead, Diagnostic Imaging, Shared Health – like many within the Shared Health Diagnostics Leadership team – acknowledges MRTs as a key connection between patients and the department. 

“As radiologists, we work behind the scenes while our MRTs are the face of radiology, working directly with patients. They are the main people moving a patient through the diagnostic imaging system from beginning to end,” said Dr. Essig. “They not only perform exams but manage meticulous documentation of the entire patient journey with diagnostic imaging. In my role as a radiologist, I see each day the commitment that my MRT colleagues bring to the services they provide.” 

Thank you to all the MRTs working across Manitoba to support patient care delivery.

Being a Radiology Technologist is a great career. We do a lot more than just take pictures. Every day is different. We have the opportunity to see and do so many different things. It’s never boring and it’s always rewarding. I love helping people and for me that’s what it’s all about. There’s no better feeling than hearing how thankful or appreciative a patient is for your help.

To be a great X-ray technologist you need to be personable and someone who likes to keep learning. Technology is constantly changing and we need to keep up with it to provide the best patient care.

Interested in being an MRT? Visit https://healthcareersmanitoba.ca/professions/ahp/med-radiation-tech/ to learn more.

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