In their own words, Medical Imaging Technologists at the Joint Department of Medical Imaging highlight the pivotal role they play in patients' journey of care. (Video: UHNToronto YouTube)
* For optimal viewing open in modern browser
Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) provide an essential link between advanced technology and patient care. They are committed to delivering compassionate care to patients, and apply critical high-tech skills with confidence and precision while collaborating with physicians and other healthcare professionals.
MRTs provide high-quality imaging, radiation-related treatment services and a personalized touch that allow patients to fully benefit from the latest medical diagnostic and treatment technologies.
Medical Radiation Technologists' Week is an annual celebration across Canada that recognizes the key role of MRTs within the healthcare community. It allows us the chance to highlight a dynamic area of health care and the outstanding contributions of these professionals involved in the clinical applications of medical radiation technology.
About 325 MRTs are part of Toronto's Joint Department of Medical Imaging (JDMI), a multi-site program encompassing Mount Sinai Hospital, University Health Network and Women's College Hospital.
"MRTs are committed to delivering technological expertise, mastering the skillset required to provide accurate state-of-the-art diagnostic images while ensuring exceptional patient care," says Paul Cornacchione, Clinical Director, JDMI. "They must apply careful thought and rigorous attention to detail in their daily work, to ensure that our healthcare teams obtain the best quality images for our patients."
The JDMI is proud to house a diverse group of highly-trained professionals representing specialized disciplines in medical imaging:
- Interventional Radiology Technologists operate imaging equipment during a minimally invasive procedure, and work as part of an integrated team with Registered Nurses and Radiologists to treat and provide care for patients.
- Magnetic Resonance Technologists work with magnetism, radio waves and computers to acquire images of body parts and systems through the use of a radiation-free body-length tunnel.
- Nuclear Medicine and PET (Positron emission tomography) Technologists carry out treatment procedures and diagnostic imaging, utilizing radionuclides to acquire images to pinpoint the nature of a disease and how it affects the body.
- Radiological Technologists are responsible for operating complex medical radiation equipment to produce diagnostic images, including x-rays, mammography, angiography, fluoroscopy, and computerized tomography (CT) scans.
In addition, MRT Week acknowledges approximately 160 Radiation Therapists who that are part of the Radiation Medicine Program at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. Radiation Therapists plan and administer radiation treatment for cancer patients, while offering ongoing care and support to patients and their families during the course of treatment.
"Radiation therapists are vital members of the cancer treatment team who design and apply focused beams of radiation to destroy cancer cells, while minimizing harm to healthy tissues," says Sophie Foxcroft, Director of Operations, Radiation Medicine Program.
"They monitor and counsel patients on how to manage and minimize possible side effects from radiation treatments."
MRT Week proudly celebrates the profession, which makes up an extraordinarily diverse and critical group of allied health professionals. As the human connection between innovative technology and effective patient care, MRTs are committed to providing
exceptional quality and exceptional care to our patients every single day.
