Benefits of an X-ray Technician
X-ray technicians, also known as radiologic technicians or radiographers, operate sophisticated technology to capture images of the human body beneath the skin. Those images include X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans. Doctors advise X-ray technicians on which imaging procedure to perform on patients. There are many benefits of becoming an X-ray technician, including demand, upward mobility, limited education and competitive salary.
Job Growth
The demand for X-ray technicians is expected to grow, according to a December 2009 "U.S. News & World Report" article on careers with a positive outlook. With the baby boomer generation getting older and requiring more health care services, X-ray technicians are in higher demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employers have been hard-pressed to fill spots for X-ray techs, therefore job placement in the field is high.
Technical Knowledge
The more technical knowledge an X-ray technician has, the more beneficial she is to her employer, and the better her opportunities for promotions. X-ray techs need to know use X-ray imaging technology, as well as prepare patients for the X-ray, calibrate the machine and capture an image of the exact area specified by a physician. Other technologies that some X-ray techs choose to master include MRI, CT scans, sonogram machines and mammogram imaging technology. Choosing a specialty can make the X-ray technician more valuable to an employer, which could result in a higher salary.
Education Requirements
X-ray technicians work in professional environments with doctors, nurses and other medical professionals, but the education required to become an X-ray tech is much less than that of their professional peers. The most common education path is a two-year associate degree from a university or career college. A one-year accelerated program is available for medical professionals and registered nurses. A bachelor's or master's degree is beneficial for those who want to move into a supervisor position, specialty field or teaching. X-ray technicians must be certified and licensed to be eligible to work in most states.
Salary
According to "U.S. News & World Report," the median salary for an X-ray technician is $52,210. For higher-ranking X-ray techs, salaries can be upward of $75,000. The pay is comparable to many careers that require a four-year degree, while basic X-ray techs only need a two-year degree. For the highest salary ranges, additional education is required.
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