Are you interested in how the human body works? Do you have an appreciation for medical technology? Are you ready to take your career to the next level? The Limited Medical Radiologic Technologist (LMRT) with MA Skills Certificate Program might be just what you need to jump start or advance your career in healthcare! Here is what you need to know about the field and how to get into it.
What Does an LMRT Do?
What, exactly, is LMRT? What do they do? Like Radiologic Technologists, Limited Medical Radiologic Technologists take X-rays. The difference is that LMRTs perform a limited scope of exams; their scope of work is typically limited to X-rays only of the head, limbs, and chest.
What Are the Responsibilities of an LMRT?
Responsibilities for LMRTs include:
• Collecting medical information from the patient
• Obtaining vital signs
• Helping patients move into exam rooms
• Providing an explanation of the procedure the provider ordered
• Positioning patients accurately to obtain a diagnostic image
• Strictly adhering to radiation safety guidelines
• Performing medical assisting duties as needed
• Providing support for other areas of the interdisciplinary team
What Settings Do LMRTs Work In?
LMRTs can work in medical clinics, private physician practices, diagnostic imaging centers, orthopedic offices, outpatient clinics, urgent care facilities, and chiropractic offices.
How Much Education Is Required to Become an LMRT?
At The College of Health Care Professions, you can be trained to become an LMRT in as few as 58 weeks—just over a year—with day and evening classes. If you need added flexibility, blended delivery is also an option.
Can You Go to School Online to Become an LMRT?
Because LMRTs must be proficient in X-ray examinations—a hands-on skill—the program must be completed on campus with clinicals completed in a healthcare setting. However, CHCP offers a blended program that provides a mix of hands-on training and online classes for added flexibility.
What Personality Traits are Required in the LMRT with MA Skills Program?
If you are a strong communicator and have good mechanical aptitude and critical thinking skills, the LMRT program may be a good choice for you. It is also important to be safety-minded, ensuring the safety and well-being of both yourself and the patient during the examinations you perform.
Additionally, LMRTs spend a lot of time on their feet and may have to work evenings, weekends, or holidays in some settings, such as urgent care. Keep in mind the demands of the LMRT career as you determine whether this career field will work for your family or personal life.
Which Campuses Offer an LMRT Program in Texas?
The College of Health Care Professions offers a Limited Medical Radiologic Technologist with MA Skills certificate program at a number of its Texas-based campuses including Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston Northwest, Houston Southwest, McAllen and San Antonio.
What Training Is Included in LMRT with MA Skills Program?
Students in this program will have the opportunity to learn how to:
• Thoroughly understand the bony anatomy of the human body
• Demonstrate proficiency in the proper positioning of the patient for each exam
• Know the history, theory, and application of X-rays in practice
• Understand the effect of radiation on the human body
• Express proficiency in medical terminology
• Appreciate the concept of quality care and know how to drive quality in your work
• Completely understand every examination technique you will be expected to perform
• Perform X-rays safely, protecting the patient and yourself
• Process X-rays properly
• Reduce radiation exposure
• Show proficiency in quality control and the operation of X-ray equipment
• Engage professionally with radiologists and other members of the interdisciplinary team
• Handle other MA duties, such as recording vital signs, performing routine examinations, and completing other administrative duties
What Kind of Degree Will I Earn?
The LMRT with MA Skills program at CHCP is a certificate program, which means you will earn a certificate instead of a degree. Graduates also have the option to return to CHCP later for our Accelerate Program to earn a degree and become a Radiologic Technologist or Sonographer. Our curriculum helps students prepare to take the state exam to become an LMRT.
Why Become an LMRT?
There are several reasons to become an LMRT. This could be the field for you if you want to:
• Pursue challenging work that makes a difference
• Begin a great medical imaging career or one that allows you to pursue additional education to become a Radiologic Technologist
• Start a healthcare job that offers a strong career outlook
How Do I Get Started?
You can begin the application process by contacting The College of Health Care Professions. In a little over a year from now, you could become an LMRT and embark on a professional career helping others with their health and wellness.
Ready to get started? Simply visit us at CHCP and request more information.
