Mammography technologists perform diagnostic mammograms.
Mammography technologists are radiologic technologists who specialize in scanning breast tissue for tumors, lesions, cysts and other abnormalities, including cancer. Mammography technologists are required to complete extensive education and training. Candidates must be educated and trained in the field of radiologic technology before they can embark on the specialty training needed to work in mammography.
High School Diploma/ GED Equivalent
Mammography technologists are required to earn a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Recommended courses include English, biology, chemistry, health and physics. High school students are also advised to take courses in a foreign language; being bilingual can increase an applicant's employment, advancement and income potential, especially in the field of health care.
Radiologic Technologist Training
Mammography technologists are required to become trained and licensed as radiologic technologists. Radiologic technology training is available through one- to two-year certificate programs, two-year associate degree programs and four-year bachelor's degree programs. Students should attend institutions accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, curriculum includes classroom instruction and clinical practice in anatomy and physiology, radiation physics, patient care procedures, radiation protection, medical terminology, principles of imaging, medical ethics, positioning of patients, pathology and radiobiology.
Licensing and Certification
Licensing requirements for radiologic technoloigsts vary by state. Applicants should check with their state's board of health for details. Voluntary certification is offered through the The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT); several states utilize the certification exam administered by the ARRT for their own licensing purposes. Certification applicants are required to graduate from a training program accredited by the ARRT and pass the certification exam. Certified radiologic technologists must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years to keep their licenses active.
Mammography Technologist Training
Licensed and/or certified radiologic technologists who wish to specialize in mammography are required to complete additional education and training. According to Education-Portal.com, training must include 40 hours of continuing education, 100 hours of clinical experience supervised by a certified mammography technologist and extensive training on the use of mammography equipment.
Mammography Technologist Certification
Most employers and state boards of health require mammography technologists to earn specialty certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Certification requirements include continuing education and experience approved by the Mammogram Quality Standards Act (MQSA), 75 supervised mammography examinations performed on live patients, the performance of several ARRT-specified quality control tests, and the fulfillment of experience requirements for special examinations and radiographic technique. Certification applicants are also required to pass an exam on patient care; instrumentation and quality assurance; anatomy; physiology; pathology; mammographic technique and image evaluation; and breast imaging procedures.
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