Radiologic technologists interpret X-ray films.
X-ray technologists, also known as radiographic technologists, receive training in the procedures necessary to perform diagnostic imaging exams and process radiographic film. Although most radiographic technologists work in hospitals, some work in physicians' offices and private clinics. Some hospitals also have large vans that go to rural areas to ensure patients with difficulty getting to a hospital have access to X-rays and mammography facilities. Radiographic technologists also provide radiation therapy.
Education Requirements
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most radiological technologists and technicians obtain an associate's degree, but there are also training programs available that lead to a certification and bachelor's degree. Certification programs take about 21 to 24 months to complete. In 2009, the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology accredited 213 certification programs; 397 associate's degree programs; and 35 bachelor's degree programs. All of these programs provide clinical instruction and classroom training in a variety of medical and patient care procedures including such courses as radiation physics, principles of imaging, radiobiology and pathology. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists offers a number of specialty certification and credentialing programs for radiologic technologists and radiologist assistants. According to the BLS, some recommended courses of study on the high level include, biology, physics, chemistry and mathematics.
Job Duties
Radiological technologists may specialize in a number of imaging procedures including computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and mammography.Those who specialize in these procedures receive the designation as CT technologists or MR technologists or MRI technologists. Technologists need good physical stamina because they may be required to help move or turn disabled patients to position them in order to perform the necessary imaging procedures. X-ray and imaging procedures help in diagnosing medical conditions and diseases. Technologists explain the prescribed procedure and any possible hazards to their patients and, when necessary, secure the patient. Technologists are responsible for protecting themselves, patients and co-workers from unnecessary radiation. Technologists process films and explain the results to staff and physicians as well as maintain patient records, file and categorize film. According to the BLS, some technologists and technicians work for several facilities and employers.
Advancement
Opportunities for advancement in this field require additional training and experience or specialization in one or more types of imaging procedures. Radiologic technologists can advance to positions such as radiologist assistant, chief radiologic technologist or supervisor. Those who go on to earn a master's degree in areas such as business or health administration may advance to the position of department administrator or director.
Employment Outlook
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field should increase by approximately 17 percent over the decade of 2008 to 2018. The Agency attributes this projected increase to the success of imagining procedures in monitoring the treatment of disease and the need for most diagnostic imaging as the population grows and ages.
Earnings
According to the BLS, the average median wage for radiologic technologists during the reporting period of May 2008 was $52,210. The agency reports the earnings for 50 percent of radiologic technologists ranged from $42,710 to $63,010. The highest 10 percent earned in excess of $74,970, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $35,100.
Tags: imaging procedures, According some, associate degree, bachelor degree, Bureau Labor
