Radiologic technicians are those professionals in the health care field who are responsible for completing x rays. Careers for radiologic technicians are available through hospitals, diagnostic labs, and out patient treatment centers as well as some physician's offices. Education programs for radiologic technicians can vary depending on the individual's prior experiences and training. Additional licensing may be required in some cases as well.
Function
Radiologic technicians are responsible for taking x-rays of various parts of the body. These radiographs can then be used to aid in patient diagnosis. These technicians will help explain the procedure to the patient. They then position both the patient and the radiographic equipment to get the best image. The technician is responsible for taking care to make sure that there is no unnecessary exposure to radiation to the patient or to himself. In addition to taking x rays of patients, radiologic technicians may also be responsible for filling out charts and caring for the radiographic equipment.
Education
The necessary training for a career as a radiologic technician can be obtained through a variety of programs. A two year associate degree can be obtained from an accredited university. Coursework in this program will include biology, physiology, and medical terminology as well as radiation physics, and radiobiology. Individuals with a more extensive education through a four year bachelor's degree program in this field would likely work as a radiologic technologist instead of a technician. Though the jobs are similar, technologists have the opportunity to work in supervisory roles and have greater possibilities for advancement. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that as of 2007 there were more than 600 radiography programs accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. For individuals with previous experience in the healthcare field, a one year certificate program is sometimes available.
Licensure and Certification
Licensing requirements for radiologic technicians vary by state. As of 2007, 40 states required licensure. Thirty-five of these incorporated exams administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) into their licensing procedures. The ARRT also offers voluntary certification. Radiologic technicians can obtain ARRT certification after graduating from an accredited program and passing an examination. Maintaining ARRT certification requires that the individual complete at least 24 hours of continuing education every two years.
Considerations
By obtaining a bachelor's degree, a radiologic technician can become a radiologic technologist. With experience, a technologist can then work their way up to become an instructor, radiologist assistant, or radiologic supervisor. Positions are also available as a department director or administrator with continued education. In some cases, these top positions may require a master's degree.
Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistic (BLS) estimates that job opportunities for radiologic technicians and technologists will increase but about 15 percent over the 2006 to 2016 decade. The increase in outpatient care facilities is expected to create new jobs for radiologic technicians. In May of 2006, the BLS reported that the median annual salary for radiological technologists and technicians was $48,170 with the lowest paid 10 percent earning less than $32,750 and the highest paid ten percent making over $68,920.
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