The field of radiology offers a number of medical career paths for those who enjoy working as part of a team and with patients. Two possibilities are X-ray technician and radiographer. There is some confusion in terminology, with X-ray technicians sometimes called radiographers and radiographers called radiology technicians.
Background
Radiology uses electromagnetic radiation, sound waves or radioactive substances to yield images of the body and its organs to assist physicians with diagnosis and treatment. An X-ray technician meets and positions the patient appropriately so that images can be taken, explains the process of capturing radiographic images, ensures that safety measures are in place and operates the imaging equipment. A radiographer performs more complex tasks such as operating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mammography or computed tomography (CT) equipment and frequently managing the office.
Education
Each state and institution has its own admission requirements. An accredited one-year X-ray technician training program usually requires a high school diploma or GED equivalent, prior courses in science, algebra and experience working with people. Future radiographers may elect associate or bachelor's degree programs. Admission requirements may be a high school diploma, additional science courses, and in some cases written tests in algebra and written and spoken English. Again, requirements vary. The important factor is that a program is certified.
Coursework
Courses for X-ray technicians are offered by hospitals, community colleges, vocational schools and colleges. Coursework will probably include anatomy and physiology, patient care and safety procedures, medical terminology, radiobiology and radiation protection. For a degree in radiography, a student will spend either two or fours years of study depending on the program. Coursework will include anatomy and physiology, ethics, algebra, critical reading and writing, patient care and a number of radiography courses. There will also be a clinical practicum and time in a lab.
On the Job
The X-ray technician greets the patient, discusses and explains the upcoming procedures and assures that radiation shields and other safety measures are in place before starting the imaging. After the procedures, the X-ray tech will assist the patient as needed. The radiographer removes the film and develops it, checks the quality of the images, enters information in a patient's record and adjusts equipment as necessary. Depending on experience level, a radiogapher may also prepare solutions of media for a patient to drink, prepare work schedules, and teach and supervise others. Radiographers with additional training perform more complicated tasks.
Potential
As an experienced X-ray technician, you can further your career by entering a radiography program. For radiographers with an associate's degree, a bachelor's degree may be the next step. There are also specialized areas in which radiographers can train, such as cardiovascular or interventional radiology, sonography or nuclear medicine. There is a healthy demand for experienced personnel in radiology as technology advances; job opportunities are expected to grow.
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