A radiology, or X-ray, tech is a medical-industry worker who assists with producing X-ray films. Employment in the field, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, "is expected to increase by about 15 percent from 2006 to 2016, faster than the average for all occupations."
Nature of the Work
Radiology techs prepare patients for X-ray exams, position and operate the X-ray machines themselves and develop the resulting film. They also keep patient records and maintain the X-ray equipment.
Physical Requirements
Radiology techs are sometimes on their feet for long periods and may have to lift or turn disabled patients. Most full-time radiology techs work about 40 hours a week, but these may include evening, weekend or on-call hours.
Dangers
X-rays can be dangerous, but the risk to radiology techs is minimized by protective equipment. Radiation-measuring badges are worn and detailed records are kept on every tech's cumulative lifetime dose.
Certification and Training
There is currently no federal standard for licensing radiology techs. However, 40 states (as of 2007) have their own. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists offers voluntary certification, which requires the tech to graduate from an accredited program and pass an exam. The most common level of formal training is a two-year associate's degree.
Employers
More than half the radiology techs in the United States work in hospitals. Others work in doctors' offices, medical and diagnostic labs and outpatient care centers.
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