Radiology technicians
play an important role in modern medicine.
Radiology technicians are medical workers who perform X-rays and other imaging tests, such as MRI or flouroscopes, on patients under the guidance of a physician or radiologist. Sometimes called radiology technologists, X-ray technicians or radiographers, they must be aware of the special precautions taken when working with X-rays and other imaging systems, both for the technician and the patient, know set up the equipment, administer any needed medications, position the patient properly to get the proper angle and image for the physician to use in diagnosis, and know calibrate and care for the machinery in their use.
Education
Educational programs in radiology are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) and may be completed at three different levels: certificate courses, which take one to two years; associate degrees, which take two years; and bachelor's degrees, which take four years. The coursework associated with these programs focuses on medical terminology and practice, biology, radiation protocols and patient care. Most radiology technicians have associate degrees.
Licensure
License requirements vary by state. Some states require licenses for an individual to practice as a radiology technician; some only require documentation of proper educational attainment.
Certification
There is a voluntary certification available from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). To attain this certification, the radiology tech must have graduated from an accredited program, pass an exam and pay a one-time fee. The AART also provides annual registration of the certification that requires meeting continuing education requirements and paying an annual fee.
Environment
Radiology technicians must be physically capable of assisting patients into the proper position for imaging tests and/or lift patients that may have a mobility problem. Technicians are on their feet for hours at a time and may be required to move equipment from room to room, so physical strength is a requirement for the profession. Typically, radiology technicians work 40 hours, although some may be part-time, work weekends or have on-call hours.
Employment Outlook
Due to the increased need for medical services in general, the career of radiology technician is expected to grow faster than average for the decade of 2008 to 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average annual salary as of 2008 was between $42,710 and $63,010, with the top 10 percent earning $74,970.
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