Mammogram technologists work with women and help find breast abnormalities.
Mammograms are low dose x-ray exams done on the breasts that look for abnormalities such as cancer, according to The National Women's Health Information Center. Mammograms are performed by mammographers and the results are given to a radiologist for interpretation. Getting a mammogram helps detect breast cancer early. This is because mammograms can detect lumps deep inside breast tissue that can't be felt during a physical breast exam.
Salary
The median salary for mammographers in the United States is $60,555, according to Salary.com. The middle 50 percent of mammographers earned between $55,556 and $65,810 annually. The top earning 10 percent earned more than $70,594 and the bottom earning 10 percent earned less than $51,004.
Education Requirements
The minimum education requirement for becoming a mammographer is to hold an associate degree in radiologic technology, according to Education Portal. Associate degrees typically take two years to complete and are offered at community and junior colleges. Before enrolling in an associate degree program, individuals must hold a high school diploma or a GED. Some employers prefer hiring candidates that complete a mammography certificate program after graduating with an associate degree in radiologic technology. Mammography certificate programs usually last one semester after graduation. Individuals with a mammography certificate will have more employment opportunities.
Licensure
The majority of states require mammographers and radiologic technologists to hold a license, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, licensing requirements for mammographers vary from state to state. Aspiring mammographers should check with their state's medical board to find out what the requirements are in the state they want to work in. States that do require licensure usually require candidates to pass a written and practical examination.
Work Environment
Approximately 61 percent of all radiologic technologists work in hospitals, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. All other radiologic technologists work in settings such as doctor's offices, diagnostic imaging centers, outpatient care centers and diagnostic laboratories.
Outlook
Job growth for radiologic technologists such as mammographers is expected to grow by 17 percent from 2008 to 2018, which is faster than the average occupation, according to BLS. This is because the aging population in the United States will need more diagnostic imaging. In addition, demand for mammographers will increase because of the need for replacing retiring mammographers. The cost of performing mammograms is also decreasing, which makes it possible for more doctors' offices to offer mammograms.
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