About the Duties of a Radiologic Technologist
If you want to find a recession-proof career, consider working in the healthcare industry. One of the jobs that are in-demand is a radiologic technologist. This profession is always challenging and satisfying: The challenge comes from the different responsibilities that come with the job; the satisfaction comes with the compensation in forms of wages and benefits, as well as a great feeling knowing the job provides help to the patients.
Function
The radiologic technologist's role is very important in aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and injuries. They are also responsible for getting a patient ready for any radiological tests and treatment at the request of physicians. X-ray machines, ultrasound machines, magnetic resonance scanners and position emission scanners are some of the machines that the radiologic technologists use.
Types
There are different types of radiologic technologists. An entry-level job as a radiologic technician assists the more senior radiologic technologist. The senior positions perform procedures that are more complex. After years of experience, advanced training and passing of different levels of licensure, a radiologic technologist moves up to a more specialized unit. For example, a CT (Computer Tomography) technologist is responsible for performing CT scans on patients. An MR (Magnetic Resonance) technologist is responsible for taking MRI (Magnetic Resonance Image) which is a three-dimensional image. There are other radiologic technologists who conduct diagnostic imaging procedures, including cardiovascular technologists and technicians, diagnostic medical sonographers and nuclear medicine technologists.
Considerations
The minimum requirement for admission to a radiography program is a high school diploma or its equivalent. One could expect to complete a certificate program in 1 to 4 years. Those coming from a different medical field may avail of a 1-year certificate program if they want to change fields. For supervisory, administrative or teaching positions, it is beneficial to complete a Bachelor's or Master's degree.
Radiologic technologists may take a voluntary certification administered by the AART (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists). Some states also use ARRT-administered exams for state licensing purposes. Licensing is important even if it is not mandatory, as most employers give preference to licensed radiologic technologists.
Potential
Radiologic technologists can pursue specialized field or supervisory positions. They may also want to pursue teaching jobs. Some radiologists also take further medical studies to become doctors or physicians.
Benefits
Many benefits come with a radiologic technologist job. One can expect a starting salary that is much higher than the minimum wage. A job in radiology is also recession-proof, like all other healthcare jobs--it is always in demand. One can find a job either in a hospital, clinic, medical laboratory, nursing home and other healthcare facilities.
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