Careers in radiology are among the fastest growing professions in the health care field, and employment prospects look promising over the next decade. Radiology professionals are hired by hospitals, clinics and independent physicians who need assistance with handling radiology equipment and producing X-rays and other types of medical images.
Function
Radiology professionals work with X-ray machines and X-ray films (radiographs) to assist physicians and surgeons in identifying medical problems. Technicians and technologists are often involved with preparing the radiation equipment, positioning patients for the X-ray process and ensuring that all equipment is functioning correctly. Experienced radiographers may be involved with performing fluoroscopies and more involved imaging procedures. Some radiographers are responsible for using specialized equipment to perform mammograms, or using MRI and CT equipment.
Career Options
Radiologic technologists are the most common career path for those who complete radiology training, but individuals may also pursue careers as a cardiovascular technologist or technician; nuclear medicine technologist; diagnostic medical sonographer; respiratory therapist; radiation therapist; clinical laboratory technologist; or a clinical laboratory technician.
Responsibilities
Some of the key tasks and responsibilities of a radiology professional include: preparing patients for a radiologic examination; implementing radiation protection devices; conducting assessments and procedural checks of radiology equipment; using various instruments to control the X-ray machine; examining the details of radiographs and relaying this information to the physician; administering nonradioactive materials into the patient's bloodstream as part of the X-ray and imaging process; following physician's orders; evaluating new purchases of radiology equipment; and using computer software programs to perform imaging and assessment procedures.
Education and Training
Prospective radiology professionals can prepare for their career by completing a formal training program at a vocational college or 4-year university. Certificate programs are also available for individuals who may already hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in the health care field. A degree from an accredited college or university is typically required for radiology professionals who wish to become managers or supervisors, teach at a college or university, or work in the administrative department of a hospital or clinic. Forty states require formal licensure for practicing radiology.
Employment Prospects
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook 2008-2009, employment for radiologic technologists and technicians is expected to grow faster than average; many radiology professionals will find work at diagnostic imaging centers and physicians' offices, but the majority will continue to work in hospitals and clinics. The median annual earnings of radiologic technologists were $48,170 in May 2006. Technologists working in medical or diagnostic laboratories earned an average of $51,280 in that same year.
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