Potential Careers In Radiologic Technology

The field of medical x-ray imaging offers many benefits for those seeking employment in the healthcare field. The radiologic technologist (or x-ray technician) graduate will find a number of employment options as well as a number opportunities for career advancement. . According to reports published by the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the current employment prospects for radiologic technologists are very good and are expected to remain so for some time.

The time and effort spent acquiring the proper training in radiologic technology is usually found to be well worth it. Once in the job market the radiologic technologist will find themselves with an in demand skill, the potential for steady employment at a good salary, and the opportunity to be a valued member of the healthcare team. Below I will outline a few specifics that may offer a better idea of what is required and what can be expected of the radiologic technologist.

Education and Training Requirements

In use since the early 1900’s, radiologic technology is the oldest of the medical imaging professions and the cornerstone on which other imaging specialties are based. A radiologic technologist (also known as x-ray technician) is an individual qualified to administer diagnostic medical x-rays. In simpler terms, this is the person who may have x-rayed your broken leg, taken your chest x-ray, or performed your mother’s mammogram.

The educational requirements for a radiologic technologist generally range from two to four years in either a college or hospital based program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. While there are a large number of two year associate degree programs available, some employers may have a preference for technicians with a four year bachelors degree. One year certificates may also be available in some areas of the country for health care workers in other fields seeking a career change.

In the course of training the radiologic technologist will acquire a working knowledge of radiographic anatomy and physiology, patient positioning and preparation, radiographic physics, fluoroscopy, digital image processing, radiation safety, quality control, medical terminology, ethics, and infection control techniques. Both classroom training and hands on clinical training in a health care environment (usually a hospital) will be required. The x-ray technologist will be working closely with physicians and other allied healthcare professionals as well as with patients. Good communication and organizational skills are a must.

Licensure and Accreditation

On satisfactory completion of training the radiologic technologist may then sit for a formal accreditation examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Successful completion of the examination will allow the technologist to use the abbreviation “RT” behind their name. Many states will also require state licensure and evidence of continuing education for radiologic technologists. The specific requirements for licensure are dependent on the state of residence.

Employment Options

Hospitals are the major employer of radiologic technologists and often offer the best opportunities for new technologists entering the field. Other potential employers include private diagnostic imaging centers, outpatient clinics, private medical practices (such as orthopedics or urology), ambulatory surgery clinics, and the federal government.

The x-ray technologist will find many areas beyond basic radiography in which to further their career. Cat Scan is one such area which combines the skills of the radiologic technologist with a working knowledge of three dimensional anatomy. MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is another such area. While MRI does not involve radiation, a considerable number x-ray technologists will go on to further their skills by training to become MRI technicians. Other areas of radiographic specialty include mammography and interventional radiology. Ultrasound and nuclear medicine disciplines, while requiring additional training, are also attractive options for some radiology professionals.

In the area of management, the technologist may be promoted to supervisor or chief technologist. In general, a promotion beyond chief technologist to department administrator or director will require an advanced degree.