Growth Opportunities for Biomedical Equipment Technicians

Specialized Roles in Different Medical Settings

BMETs can specialize in specific types of medical equipment, focusing on devices like ventilators, imaging machines, or surgical tools. Their specialized knowledge is essential in different healthcare environments, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and medical device manufacturers. 

Let’s explore some of these specialized roles.

Ventilator Technicians

Ventilator technicians focus specifically on the setup, calibration, repair, and maintenance of ventilators. These machines are critical for patients who cannot breathe on their own, especially in intensive care settings. Ventilator technicians work closely with doctors and nurses to ensure these machines function optimally during life-saving procedures. 

Medical Imaging Technicians

Another specialized role for BMETs is in medical imaging. 

Medical imaging technicians are skilled at operating devices like MRI machines, X-ray systems, and ultrasound equipment. These machines are essential diagnostic tools used across various fields of medicine, from emergency care to cancer treatment. BMETs in this role ensure imaging equipment is always operational and producing accurate, high-quality images.

As of February 2023, the Definitive Healthcare platform tracks 18,861 imaging centers across the US. The number illustrates the growing need for medical imaging technicians. With our ever-increasing reliance on diagnostic imaging, these technicians will continue to be in high demand in the foreseeable future. 

That is what makes it a highly promising specialization within the BMET field.

Dental and Ophthalmic Equipment Technicians

Dental equipment technicians work with tools like X-ray machines, autoclaves, and dental chairs, ensuring they are sterilized and functioning correctly. Similarly, ophthalmic equipment technicians manage devices like phoropters and retinal cameras that are crucial for diagnosing and treating eye conditions.

In addition to the essential nature of their work, these technicians earn a solid income. The median annual wage for dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians and medical appliance technicians was $44,640 in May 2023. 

Given their specialized skills and the growing demand for dental and eye care services, these professionals are well-compensated for their expertise.

Other Specialized BMET Roles

BMETs also work in settings such as laboratories, where they maintain and repair equipment used in medical research. In research and development centers, for example, BMETs ensure devices like centrifuges, incubators, and spectrometers operate correctly to facilitate crucial medical research.

Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians carry out essential tests in hospitals and clinics to aid in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. Most of these professionals are employed in healthcare settings, including hospitals, diagnostic labs, and physicians' offices. 

Employment of clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is projected to grow by 5% from 2023 to 2033. 

In manufacturing companies, BMETs are involved in testing new medical devices before they are released to the market. Their role is crucial in ensuring these devices meet regulatory standards and function safely in real-world settings. 

BMETs in these environments often collaborate with engineers and designers to fine-tune equipment and troubleshoot issues before products are distributed to healthcare providers.

Safety and Compliance

An often overlooked but critical aspect of a BMET’s role is ensuring that all medical devices comply with safety standards and regulations. 

Medical devices must meet stringent requirements set by organizations like the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). BMETs are responsible for conducting routine safety checks and ensuring that equipment adheres to these standards.

Job Outlook and Growing Opportunities for BMETs

BMETs play a critical role in healthcare by wearing multiple hats. The demand for these multi-skilled professionals is growing rapidly as technology advances and healthcare systems expand. 

According to the BLS, the employment of medical equipment repairers is projected to grow 18% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS also estimates an average of 7,300 new openings for medical equipment repairers over the next decade.

BMETs are vital to the healthcare industry, but the profession itself is still relatively unknown to many. As San Jacinto College professor Michael Brown puts it, "Biomed tech is not a well-known profession, but it is continually growing". His college is one of a handful that offers a program in this field. 

The growing need for BMETs is not just about filling existing positions but addressing a significant shortage of trained professionals. "In the current market, there is a great shortage of technicians. In the next 10-15 years, more than 3,000 technicians will be needed. Many of my students are hired while in school, and nearly all graduates walk right into jobs", Brown adds. 

A Widening Shortage of Technicians

Unfortunately, the significant talent shortage in the field is expected to worsen as more professionals near retirement age. According to The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), which surveyed healthcare technology management professionals in 2022, 60% of survey respondents were over the age of 45. 

Many job opportunities will open up as these professionals approach retirement. The worry, however, is whether enough professionals are entering the profession to fill up these roles. 

UpNorthLive reports that a shortage of biomed techs could lead to a crisis in patient safety. This is how biomedical engineer Danielle McGeary voiced her concerns: "Over the last five years, I've watched 25 biomed tech programs shut down. There are now roughly 60 programs left in the country." 

McGeary also highlighted a significant geographic issue: "There's 17 states that don't have any schools right now. So people aren't learning about the field. We're not creating a pipeline."

Capitalizing on Opportunities

The numbers discussed above point to vast opportunities for BMETs in the coming years. 

The projected growth in the medical devices market, coupled with a talent shortage, highlights a critical need for more trained professionals in this field. This shortage isn't a challenge but rather an opportunity for those with the right skills to step in and make a significant impact. 

As healthcare technology continues to advance, hospitals and clinics will increasingly depend on BMETs to maintain and repair vital equipment. For individuals already working in this field or those looking to enter it, the talent gap means more job openings, competitive salaries, and a growing demand for their expertise. 

With the US medical devices market projected to soar, BMETs are set to play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of healthcare systems while benefiting from a rewarding and dynamic career with abundant potential.