Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists

Operate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners. Monitor patient safety and comfort, and view images of area being scanned to ensure quality of pictures. May administer gadolinium contrast dosage intravenously. May interview patient, explain MRI procedures, and position patient on examining table. May enter into the computer data such as patient history, anatomical area to be scanned, orientation specified, and position of entry.

The occupation of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (MRI technologists) has an automation risk of 39.1%, which is in line with its base risk score of 39.6%. This moderate risk comes from the fact that while certain tasks can be standardized or automated by software and robotic systems, the role still relies heavily on specialized knowledge and patient interaction. The advancement of artificial intelligence in interpreting routine orders, running safety checks, and preparing basic scan settings has increased the potential for automation. However, the complexity of each patient’s situation and the need for careful protocol adjustment keep full automation at bay for now. The tasks most susceptible to automation are those that tend to be highly procedural and rules-based. These include reviewing physicians’ orders to confirm prescribed exams, which often follows specific protocols that can be managed by advanced electronic health record (EHR) systems; conducting screening interviews of patients for contraindications, something that can be streamlined by digital checklists or apps; and selecting appropriate imaging techniques or coils, which is increasingly supported by software that can suggest protocols based on input data. These functions are repeatable and structured, making them good candidates for automation as technology advances. On the other hand, the most automation-resistant responsibilities involve scheduling appointments for research or clinical use—work that still benefits from human judgment and flexibility—developing or producing film records of MRI images where quality control and context are essential, and positioning or securing portable MRI scanners on a patient’s body, which requires fine motor skills and a sensitivity to patient comfort. These tasks rely on human originality and manual dexterity, both of which have been identified as bottleneck skills, albeit at a relatively low level (Originality at 2.6% and 2.8%). The modest percentage indicates some vulnerability, but also highlights areas where human judgment and adaptability are still required, limiting the overall automation risk for MRI technologists.