Radiology departments at hospitals provide a variety of tests, including X-rays, mammograms, CT scans, and MRIs, and often see patients who are being treated by several physicians. Keeping a patient's radiology information accurate, up-to-date, and easy to utilize are crucial to the success of a radiology department and are the responsibility of radiology clerks.
Primary Function
A radiology clerk's primary responsibilities are completing information in patient's charts concerning the type of radiology procedures performed and filing patient charts, radiographic films, and test results. They also are required to locate and retrieve patient files as needed.
Secondary Function
In some hospitals, radiology clerks greet patients and sign them in. Sometimes radiology clerks may answer telephones and perform administrative duties such as making photocopies or sending faxes.
Time Frame
Radiology clerks typically work 40 hours per week, but may be able to obtain overtime depending on the staffing needs of the hospital. Because radiology testing occurs around the clock in hospitals, radiology clerks may participate in shift work involving nights, weekends, and holidays.
Skills
Radiology clerks must be familiar with basic radiology and medical terminology to perform well on the job. They must also have good typing and organizational skills and be friendly and patient with people who are feeling ill and possibly afraid.
Training and Certification
Most radiology clerks have an associate's degree from a junior or community college. Voluntary certification as a Registered Health Information Technician can be obtained through the American Health Information Management Association after receipt of the degree by passing a written examination.
Tags: radiology clerks, Health Information, hospitals radiology, hospitals radiology clerks, patient charts
