Radiology technicians perform medical imaging, including X-rays.
Radiology technicians and technologists take X-rays, or diagnostic medical imaging, under the direction of physicians, particularly radiologists, to diagnose disease or injury. They are sometimes referred to as radiographers, radiologic techs, radiologic assistants or rad techs. They can specialize in other imaging fields such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and mammography. The field is broader than X-ray, as some imaging procedures do not require radiation.
Training, Education and Certification
Radiology techs usually earn at least an Associate of Applied Science degree. Some earn a bachelor's degree, while others gain a certificate. Programs cover classroom and clinical instruction in anatomy, physiology, patient care, radiation physics, radiation safety, imaging, medical terminology, patient positioning, medical ethics, radiobiology and pathology, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) is the accrediting body for radiography programs. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers certification for radiologic technologists. Some states require licensure and certification. Certification takes about one year. An associate's degree takes approximately two years and a bachelor's degree is typically four years.
Safety
Radiology techs prepare patients for medical imaging by explaining procedures, removing jewelry and positioning the patients. They also learn to prevent unnecessary exposure to radiation, which can be harmful to the radiology tech and patient.
Specialized Training
Radiology techs can specialize in a variety of fields, including diagnostic medical sonography (or ultrasound), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cardiac and vascular imaging, bone densitometry, nuclear medicine and radiation therapy.
Work Environment
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiology techs must have physical stamina as they might be on their feet for long periods of time and may need to help position patients, including disabled patients. Radiology techs must learn to minimize radiation hazards using lead aprons, gloves and other shielding apparatus, and also monitor radiation exposure. Radiology techs can work in hospitals, doctors' offices, diagnostic imaging centers and urgent care.
Career Potential
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment of radiology technologists is expected to increase by about 17 percent from 2008 to 2018, which is faster than average, in part because of an aging population.
Radiologist vs. Radiographer
The term "radiologist" is often confused with "radiographer" or "radiologic technologist," according to the University of Utah Department of Radiology. A radiologist is a physician who has spent approximately 13 to 14 years in post-college education. A student can become a radiographer or radiologic technologist with a two- or four-year degree beyond high school.
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