I am a
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Medical illustrator

Medical illustrators produce photographs, videos and graphical images for use in healthcare.

Average annual salary

£28,000 to £43,000

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Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • working towards this role

University

To get into any of the branches of medical illustration you'll need a degree in a relevant subject like:

  • photography
  • graphic design
  • illustration
  • art and design
  • film or video production

You can apply for a trainee position as a medical illustrator in a healthcare setting once you finish your degree.

As a trainee you could gain a postgraduate qualification in specialisms like:

  • clinical photography
  • graphic design for healthcare
  • medical art

Entry requirements:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Work

You can apply to do a postgraduate qualification if you're already working in healthcare and you have a relevant degree.

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Required Skills:

Digital skills : to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Skills:
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • knowledge of the fine arts
  • thinking and reasoning skills
  • design skills and knowledge
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • knowledge of English language
  • knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
  • the ability to work well with your hands
  • the ability to learn through your work
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
  • active listening skills
  • the ability to read English
  • the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
  • concentration skills
  • physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
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What you'll do:

Medical illustrators produce photographs, videos and graphical images for use in healthcare.

Your tasks will depend on your specialism. As part of your day-to-day tasks, you may:

  • record a patient's condition using a digital camera or video
  • take photographs to monitor the effectiveness of operations and treatments
  • use specialist equipment and techniques to capture 3D images of structures like the eye, and to record specific procedures
  • work closely with doctors, nurses and patients in hospitals and university medical departments.
  • photograph non-accidental injuries, in forensic photography
  • provide bereavement photography for grieving parents
  • copy evidence from slides and x-rays
  • use software to produce presentations
  • create visual materials for teaching and research purposes
  • produce photography and artwork for publicity materials, annual reports, staff newspapers and websites

Location : You could work in a photographic studio or in an NHS or private hospital.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

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Salary:

Starter : £28,000
Experienced : £43,000

These figures are a guide

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Working hours:

39 - 41 hours a week

Working Pattern is on call on a rota

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Career Path:

With experience, you could progress to a management role. With further study, you could also move into research or teaching.

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