This is a fairly new field, so the technology required for this kind of cutting-edge research is in its infancy. The questions are a bit more theoretical and research is connected to how we perceive reality. The medical side of neurology is concerned with diagnosing and treating illness, but neuroscience attempts to address how the brain observes and analyzes information. Though neuroscientists and EEG techs may end up working with much of the same equipment, neuroscientists will often use MRI machines, too. But there are plenty of other career opportunities related to the brain. Understandably, the average neurologist salary can be more than four times more than the average EEG tech.Ĭomparing EEG technicians and neurologists is like comparing apples and oranges. While an EEG Tech certification can be obtained in a relatively short period of time, becoming a neurologist can take around 12 years between undergraduate studies, medical school, residency, and specialist training. They generally work to diagnose medical conditions related to the brain, spine, and nervous system (like stroke, multiple sclerosis, migraines, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, or epilepsy). What Does a Neurologist Do?Ī neurologist is a medical doctor who typically works in a clinical setting. Other Neurology CareersĪs we mentioned above, EEG is only one career in the neuroscience field. Whether you’d like to work in a laboratory, a hospital, clinic, specialty clinic, or research center, you can look for potential job openings suited to your interests. Suffice it to say, incomes range from $29,000 to $80,000. What Is the Average EEG Tech Salary?įor example, the national mean annual wage in this category is greater than $52,000, though that number can vary from around $40,000 to over $58,000 (depending on the location and sector that technologists work in). While the Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn’t have specific employment data for EEG technologists, the data for health technologists and technicians shows strong salaries and job growth. However, prior coursework in Anatomy & Physiology or Medical Terminology can certainly be beneficial. Note: In order to apply to an EEG program, you’ll need a high school diploma. Once you’ve completed your training, graduates of ABRET-approved programs are eligible to receive their certification. It’s important to find an EEG training program that includes a clinical internship. Studies in this field usually require 12-18 months, and a great program will include a balance of theory and practicum. So once you’ve completed a training program, you may have the option of obtaining certification as an EEG technologist or possibly another specialty. Remember: An EEG technologist falls under the neurodiagnostic technology (NDT) umbrella. Nowadays, many EEG techs receive their education via NDT training programs that introduce students to a broad range of neurodiagnostic procedures.
You’ll also be responsible for obtaining patient medical records, positioning patients, analyzing test results, and maintaining the EEG equipment.īeyond just EEGs, neurodiagnostic technologists may also perform EPs (Evoked Potential tests), NCSs (Nerve Conduction Studies), and IONMs (Intraoperative Neurophysiologic Monitoring).
These small discs are used to detect electrical activity in the brain (when your neurons communicate with each other).Īs an EEG technologist, your primary role involves running diagnostic tests to assist doctors with their diagnoses (that range from epilepsy to sleep disorders). So what does an EEG technologist do, how does this role compare to other similar fields, and how do you become one? What Is an EEG Technologist?ĮEG – which stands for electroencephalogram – is a mouthful, but you’ve probably seen this procedure before when someone has small metal discs attached to their head. To help you select an allied health career path, we’ve broken down various careers in neurology, starting with EEG technology. Neuroscience has a multitude of branches, and for those who want to work in a brain-related field, it can feel overwhelming to choose one to pursue.
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