Medical imaging careers like MRI Technologist, Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, and Radiologic Technologist, are all in high demand in Alaska. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the healthcare industry across the country has experienced worker shortages, but And imaging professionals are in especially high demand due to a shortage of skilled workers, an aging population, and the challenges of the vast Alaskan geography. If you’re looking for a rewarding medical career with competitive pay in the Last Frontier, consider a medical imaging path.

MRI Techs are in Demand in Alaska

is double the national average. By 2034, than at any other time in its history. And because seniors require more MRIs due to age-related diseases and conditions, there will be significant demand for professionals who know how to administer the tests. Post pandemic, many MRI Techs in the state left the industry, and still others are reaching retirement age. Demand is high in cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks, but also in rural areas where MRI Techs often serve as mobile imaging professionals.

As an MRI technician in Alaska, you will probably work in a hospital setting such as or . But you may also find work in outpatient centers and diagnostic laboratories.

Among the responsibilities you may have include:

• Prepare patients for MRIs
• Position patients correctly to capture accurate images
• Operate MRI equipment and adjust imaging settings
• Monitor patients during scans for safety and comfort
• Review images for quality and clarity
• Maintain patient records and scan documentation
• Follow safety protocols, especially around magnetic fields
• Collaborate with radiologists and other healthcare staff

There are many benefits to being an MRI Technician in Alaska, including its competitive salary. , with an annual mean wage of more than $100,000.

Is There Demand for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers in Alaska?

There is strong demand for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers throughout the state, but especially in cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks and in rural areas such as Bethel, Kotzebue, and Barrow. There’s also significant demand for travel Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Because of the state’s vast geographic makeup, patients often cannot get to healthcare facilities in large cities, but sonographers can come to them—particularly with portable equipment. Your responsibilities as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer would be similar to those of an MRI Technician but using much different equipment. MRIs use powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images, while sonography machines use high frequency sound waves. The patients you’re likely to serve include as a sonographer include:

• Pregnant patients
• Adults with abdominal or organ concerns
• Cardiac patients
• Patients with vascular conditions
• Breast imaging patients
• Pediatric patients
• Emergency or trauma patients
• Outpatient and routine screening patients

Sonographers in Alaska are among the highest paid in the country, with an average annual salary of more than $100,000.

DMS Specialty: Mammography

Demand for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers who specialize in mammography is also on the rise. Because , it’s critical for patients to get early diagnoses. That’s why facilities like the in Fairbanks (BCDC) often look for qualified mammographers. However, those in rural areas may not have the ability to make trips to these centers. Many care centers like the BCDC hire travel mammography techs as well to help those who live in more rural areas.

Radiologic Technologist Demand in Alaska

, with . You could find work as a Radiologic Technician in Alaskan hospitals, outpatient centers, mobile imaging units, physician offices, and specialty clinics or in travel or contract positions.

Alaska also pays its Rad Techs more than the national average, with an .

Are you ready to consider a career in medical imaging in Alaska? Â鶹¹ÙÍø offers a variety of medical imaging training programs that can prepare you for careers in radiography, sonography, and more. Our faculty have years of experience in the field and are dedicated to your success. Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form to learn more.