Apprenticeship as a medical technologist for functional diagnostics
»I combine technology, medicine and humanity», says Vivian, trainee as medical technologist specialising in functional diagnostics (MTF) at the UKJ
Vivian, what made you decide to train as an MTF?
When I went to the careers advice centre, I found out more about the apprenticeship. I thought nursing might not be the right field for me, so I looked at a few other interesting options in medicine. I found the training programme for medical technologists in functional diagnostics particularly appealing. I was immediately drawn to it because this profession involves working in many different specialisms and also carries a lot of personal responsibility. Another advantage is that you spend a lot of time interacting with patients. I wanted this social contact during my training.
How long did it take you to find your apprenticeship?
After graduating from high school, I completed six months of federal voluntary service and regularly contacted the careers advice centre during this time. I found the apprenticeship position quickly because there were lots of offers, and I applied for many of them. The UKJ responded quickly, and I was accepted onto the apprenticeship programme in September.
What requirements do you need to fulfil to train as a medical technologist for functional diagnostics?
It’s certainly an advantage if you’re good with people. It’s important to build good relationships with patients and encourage them when necessary. On the other hand, it’s also important to have a good relationship with your colleagues, as you get to know lots of people from different specialisms in this profession.
This training could be of interest to anyone who enjoyed biology at school or is interested in the human body in general. An interest in physics can also be helpful. But, to be honest? Physics was never my favourite subject at school, yet I still enjoy learning about it during my training. It’s not any harder, even though I wasn’t that good at it before.
How does the training programme work? What stages will you go through?
The apprenticeship lasts three years. During the first year, you will alternate between six weeks of school and several weeks of practical training. Initially, the school element predominates, as you first need the basic knowledge to be able to work in practice. Having some prior knowledge of anatomy is advantageous.
During the practical training, you will cover five key areas: ENT, cardiology, pneumology, neurology and angiology. I am currently studying neurology. I also have a nursing internship and an interdisciplinary internship. These give us an insight into completely different areas. Initially, you spend one or two weeks in each department, but as your training progresses, you spend longer periods in the individual specialities. Fortunately, as we are training at a university hospital, we have access to all specialisms.
What tasks do MTFs carry out during their training?
My tasks include carrying out medical examinations. Experienced MTFs carry out functional diagnostic examinations independently, but under a doctor’s orders, to recognise disorders of the nervous system, sensory organs (e.g. hearing and balance), the cardiovascular system, blood vessels, and the lungs. These examinations include ECGs, EEGs, spirometry, audiometry, ergometry and more complex procedures such as evoked potentials or echocardiography.
We prepare the technical equipment, check its functionality and carry out regular maintenance. We also look after patients during examinations, guiding them and paying attention to their individual needs.
Finally, we document and analyse the results and procedures of the examinations, preparing them for medical diagnosis.
Which station has been your favourite so far?
It depends on where I am at the time. I’m currently on the neurology ward, which I really like. ENT was interesting, too. Overall though, I really liked paediatric neurology because I enjoy working with children. I was able to apply a lot there because it was the first specialty we studied at school. Working with children presents a particular challenge — they react and participate very differently to adults.
What are the biggest challenges in your training in general?
Definitely finding the courage to touch patients. I found that quite difficult at first. We stimulate them with electricity, for example. What is the best way to approach them? How should I talk to them? I was very shy at first. But I gradually learnt how to do that by observing role models.
What development opportunities are available for MTFs in Jena, and more specifically, at the UKJ? What are the chances of being taken on?
Demand for this profession is high as there are few skilled workers and it is not widely known. The chances of being taken on are very good. There are many opportunities to specialise, for example in the sleep laboratory or the cardiac catheter laboratory. MTFs can later develop into practice supervisors or change direction, for example into quality management or working in an operating theatre.
What advice would you give to someone considering training here in Jena?
I haven’t personally done this, but I would recommend doing an internship beforehand. This would give you an idea of what the work in the hospital is like.
Is there anything you would like to correct about preconceptions of training as an MTF or of medical professions in general?
Not really, because hardly anyone knows about them. In hospitals, people recognise doctors and nurses, but the rest of us sometimes seem invisible. I’ve even been addressed as a nurse before, even though it’s actually a completely different profession.
Have you learnt any special skills or tricks through the training that you can apply to your everyday life?
Dealing with difficult patients who may become angry or loud has improved my resilience and ability to handle conflict. I’ve realised that I simply stay calmer.
What were the best moments during your training?
There are many! When patients thank me for helping them. Seeing an interesting case of a serious illness that has improved is another highlight. And, of course, when little children hug me and say thank you. I also feel really well integrated into the team and I’m learning so much.
What do you particularly like about working and living in Jena?
Jena is a beautiful city, with an ideal city centre and parks for meeting up with friends. There are also some beautiful hiking trails. I really like it here!
Training as a medical technologist specialising in functional diagnostics offers a combination of state-of-the-art medical technology, fascinating insights into the world of diagnostics, and direct contact with people — ensuring that no two days are the same! If you are passionate about science, enjoy taking on responsibility, and enjoy supporting patients, you will find this to be a varied and future-proof training programme offering a wide range of development opportunities.
Facts and figures about the apprenticeship:
Duration of apprenticeship: 3 years
Start: Every year on 1 September
Remuneration:
1st year: €1,280.74 (gross/month)
2nd year: €1,340.80 (gross/month)
3rd year: €1,437.53 (gross/month)
Requirements
- A good secondary school leaving certificate or another qualification recognised as equivalent OR
Secondary school leaving certificate or another qualification recognised as equivalent, together with successful completion of vocational training (at least two years) - For school-leaving qualifications obtained abroad: certificate recognition, an overview of grades in German and a language certificate of level B2 or DSH
- Proof of sufficient or complete immunity or vaccination against measles.
- Dexterity, communication skills, ability to work in a team
Similar training occupations:
- Medical Assistant
Dental Assistant
Study options: Postgraduate studies, e.g. in the field of medical technology, are possible
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