X-ray technicians and technologists in Utah must pass approved examinations to be licensed.
Radiology careers in Utah include two levels of licensing: radiology practical technicians and radiology technologists. Radiology practical technicians are not required to meet any specific formal education requirements but must pass a state approved examination to become licensed. On the other hand, radiology technologists must complete either a state accredited two-year associate degree program or complete a bachelor's of science degree program in radiology. Radiology technologists must also pass a state approved examination to earn their license to practice in Utah.
Radiology Practical Technicians
Radiology practical technicians have limited responsibilities. They are limited to performing diagnostic procedures under the direction and supervision of a physician radiologist, according to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. Radiology practical technicians can perform diagnostic imaging in such areas as the chest, extremities, skull, spine and feet, but only those in which they have successfully passed area-related examinations administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Utah does not require a radiology practical technician to obtain any specific level of formal education. However, there are a limited number of applied technology programs available in Utah ranging from 36 hours to 90 hours of instruction. These programs are available to provide instruction to students preparing for ARRT examinations.
Radiology practical technicians, whether or not they have completed a formal education program, must prove competency through examination
Radiology Technologists
Radiology technologists are trained to practice more advanced procedures, but still must practice under the supervision and direction or a radiologist physician or practitioner.
Radiology technologists can specialize in mammography, CT scans (computed tomography), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and radiation therapy, as well as nuclear medicine technology and other areas of radiology, according to the University of Utah School of Medicine.
Radiology technologists are licensed in Utah after completing a bachelor of science degree in radiology or a two-year associate degree in a state approved radiologic education program. A radiology technologist must also pass exams administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) prior to licensing.
Radiology technologists work in hospitals, clinics and physicians' offices.
Advanced Occupations
Radiology technologists may want to continue their education and earn an advanced degree, qualifying for a position as an educator or department administrator.
Demand and Earnings
According to the University of Utah School of Medicine, there is a promising future for radiologic technology practitioners. Given advances in technology, the growing number of elderly and the increased demand for health care, radiologists are expected to be in high demand.
In 2007, the latest figures available show the nationwide mean wage for radiographers was $52,336, according to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. Salaries tend to increase with experience and education
Tags: Radiology technologists, formal education, practical technicians, Radiologic Technologists, Radiology practical technicians