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When patients require a medical device to help them see, speak or walk, their health care providers send requests to medical, dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians.
Medical appliance technicians construct, fit, maintain and repair:
- braces
- artificial limbs
- joints
- arch supports
- other surgical and medical appliances
After fabrication, medical appliance technicians test devices for proper alignment, movement and biomechanical stability. They also may fit the appliance on the patient and adjust them as necessary. In some laboratories, technicians perform all stages of the work; in other labs, each technician does only a few.
How long will it take?
Most medical, dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians learn their craft on the job; however, many employers prefer to hire those with formal training. High school students interested in becoming medical appliance technicians should take mathematics, metal and wood shop and drafting, then attend a local community college.
How much will you earn?
Average salaries range from $8.00 to $27.00 an hour.
Where can you work?
Most medical appliance technicians work in dental laboratories, followed by ophthalmic laboratories. Health and personal care stores also hire medical appliance technicians, as do hospitals.
AC can help you get there!
