Technology has been transforming the need for efficiency in developing and repairing biomedical equipment over the past decade. With innovative advancements that partner engineering with science and machines such as 3D printers and microprocessors, the need for trained, biomedical equipment technicians will only increase.
A Biomedical Equipment Technician’s Role
Currently, biomedical equipment technicians operate as repairers and servicers. From installing the medical equipment that diagnoses and treats patients to servicing radiological machines and electrocardiographs, biomedical techs can be trained to perform a variety of duties. On a routine basis, these technicians can be required to complete any of the following tasks:
- Perform repairs and calibrations to most Diagnostic and Therapeutic Medical Equipment and maintain associated records
- Diagnose and correct system and equipment malfunctions
- Log new devices into computer inventory database upon receipt and inspection
- Solve organization-level customer service issues and complaints
- Report all patient safety issues to supervisors or managers and assist with correction of the issue
- Participate in pre-purchase evaluation programs
- Operate with a database management system
- Purchase parts
- Assist in identifying and recommending replacement of equipment that is obsolete, has an extensive repair history, or known safety issues
In addition to a widespread job description, biomedical equipment technicians are expected to efficiently work a flexible schedule with minimal supervision.
Future Biomedical Equipment and Technological Developments
The projection of 2020 promises revolutionary advancements in the biomedical equipment tech industry. Utilizing 3D printing, miniaturization of computers and processors, and nanotechnology, engineers are determined to trial and release many new products that will keep biomedical equipment technicians occupied.
3D Printing Human Organs
The optimization of 3D printing now expands far beyond recycled products and designer furniture. With the use of biomaterials to produce printed muscles, cartilages, and bone, engineers have now taken a step closer to bioprinting human organs that can help with the great need for organ donors.
A Patch Against Obesity
Obesity has silently grown into a national epidemic. Nutritional deficiencies, minimal exercise, and genetic health problems affect our bodies if not treated effectively. Over recent years, the cost of medication like insulin has grown beyond affordable measures. Therefore, biomedical engineers are researching to develop innovative, cost-efficient, and effective solutions. With obesity-fighting patches, similar in concept with nicotine or birth-control patches, a single square will release antibodies to eliminate fat cells through miniscule needles distributing the compounds.
Controlling a Prosthesis with One’s Brain
The evolution of prosthetic limbs from decades past has improved in regard to utilization and aesthetics. However, the challenge of creating a prosthesis with fluid motion remains. As a result, current development is testing for predictive prosthetic movement algorithms by monitoring the patterns in brain activity.
Nanorobots that Fight Disease from Within
Finding medication that works without a surplus of side effects is rare. With groundbreaking research to solve the issue of debilitating side effects, engineers are discovering how effective nanorobots can be when fighting disease. With direct applications to treating tumor cells or cancer-ridden organs, nanorobots can be the next step for simple-target treatments.
Job Outlooks for Biomedical Technicians
With the reliable demand for healthcare services as the aging population increases, the job outlook for biomedical equipment technicians remains positive. Biomedical developments that introduce new and more complex medical equipment will require a trained set of technicians to service and repair them when needed.
SVI Medical: Custom-Built Lifting Systems
The biomedical industry will continue to further their research and development to create new products and procedures. At SVI Medical, we provide the safest medical equipment repair lifts, customized to perfectly fit the equipment at your facility. Contact us today at (800) 321-8173 with any questions or to learn how we can create the right product for your equipment.