Celebrating our medical radiation technologists

With a caring touch, 93 registered medical radiation technologists (MRTs) support patient care and diagnosis across St. Joseph’s Health Care London, performing more than 155,326 medical imaging exams each year. Using ultrasound, radiological (X-ray and CT), nuclear and magnetic resonance imaging, MRTs enable patients to fully benefit from the latest in medical diagnostic and treatment technology.

Every year, MRTs are celebrated during MRT Week, which falls during the week of Nov. 8 to spotlight the anniversary of Wilhelm Röntgen’s discovery of the X-ray, which changed how we look at, and into, medical care. This year, the celebration comes at an unprecedented time in health care.

Throughout the pandemic, MRTs have continued to provide care, drawing inspiration from the vital role they play, the patients who come for care, and the example of their colleagues. Here, two St. Joseph’s imaging technologists share their pride in the care they provide at this historic time.

Jayna Quigley

During the pandemic, staying motivated has not always been easy. On difficult days, I draw my inspiration from my patients and colleagues. While life is much different now, patients still need care, including diagnostic support to assist in their battle with cancer or other illness. Illnesses do not stop, and neither can we.

I try to remember that COVID-19 does not take days off; it is relentless. But so are my colleagues. The added stress and challenges of COVID-19 have been met by our progressive and innovative implementation of best practice when it comes to safety. I believe St. Joseph’s and those who make up the St. Joseph’s family have been strengthened by this experience. We have come to truly understand how we are not individual departments but rather a professional community that has readily accepted the challenges of COVID-19 and embraced a uniform response: daily screening, rigid infection control, masks and personal protective equipment. Not only do we adhere to recommended guidelines, we promote these precautions to our patients before, during and after their hospital visit.

One of my patents was worried about keeping her appointment and the risk of exposure by leaving her home. I explained the precautions we take such as cleaning methods and how often we clean the machines, beds and equipment. The patient felt comfortable at her appointment and, more important, understood our goal was her care and safety.

What I miss most from my pre-COVID days is getting together with family and friends, specifically my grandmother who lives in a care facility. I also miss playing team sports. This is the first time in more than 20 years I have not stepped on a soccer field to play my favourite sport with my teammates and friends. Although these have been personal sacrifices, the inability to enjoy these activities has allowed me to find new interests. I started to read novels again, and started running. 

I thank my fellow colleagues and leaders for their support and guidance throughout this difficult time. It is important to remember we are not alone and, with a little help from our friends, we can get through these challenging times together.

Karen Betteridge

I have worked at St. Joseph’s for nearly 20 years and during my career I have worked in many different modalities in the Medical Imaging Centre as an MRT. This includes CT, bone mineral density, general radiology (x-ray), supporting the operating room and portable units, and now working full-time in breast imaging. 

In April, as the COVID-19 pandemic progressed, I was redeployed to be the site team lead for perimeter screening at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Although this role took me away from my imaging team and patients, I am so glad that I said yes!  This opportunity allowed me to see the organization in a whole new way. It opened my eyes to the amazing team work and decision making that takes place "behind the scenes".  I had a chance to work with the awesome team of screeners, wayfinders, and nurses. I also met many of the amazing department directors and can truly appreciate what it takes to make a change.   

Within Medical imaging, I was also able to see how life was evolving as an MRT. There were policy changes, schedule changes, and new personal protective equipment regulations. In the Breast Care Centre, the technologists were learning new equipment and procedures. Life was steady and sometimes unsure, but one thing never changed – the staff focus on consistent and positive patient-centered care.

As services resumed over the summer months, I was called back to work in the Medical Imaging Centre at the end of August. During my four months as team lead for perimeter screening, I learned a lot about myself and about our organization. It strengthened my confidence, and my ability to listen to others while making positive, effective change. It also reinforced how connected we all are as staff.  We are all here to make a difference for our patients, whether at the front doors or behind the lead-shielding walls in medical imaging.

As a technologist I am proud of what I do. This pandemic has taught me to be open to change and, though we might be anxious or unsure, good things can happen when we work together.