Radiology Technologists and Technicians In High Demand

Health Care Careers

Radiology Technologists and Technicians

A popular, rewarding and fast growing career in the Health Care field is in Radiology or specifically Radiology Technologists and Technicians.  According to the Department of Labor, employment opportunities in Radiology Technology are highly favorable and projected to be in large demand and grow at a greater than average pace.  Although hospitals remain the primary employers for Radiology Technicians and Technologists, a number of new jobs will be found in emerging diagnostic imaging offices and physicians’ offices.

The primary responsibility of a Radiology technologist is to take x-rays and administer non-radioactive materials into patients’ bloodstreams for diagnostic purposes.  They produce x-ray films or radiographs for physicians to use in diagnosing medical problems.  They fully prepare the patient for their radiology examination by explaining the procedure step-by-step and ensuring all preparations are completed prior to administering the radiology tests.

Technicians must adhere to physicians’ orders precisely and conform to regulations regarding the use of radiation to protect themselves, their patients, and their fellow coworkers from unnecessary exposure to x-rays.  Not only do Radiology technologists perform x-rays, they also are responsible to keep patient records and adjust and maintain the equipment.  They may also prepare work schedules, evaluate equipment purchases or even manage a radiology department.

Some radiographers specialize in (CT) or Computed Tomography, x-rays that produce multiple cross-sectional x-rays of an area of the body.  Radiographers can also specialize in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) which produces a three dimensional image of the x-rayed area in multiple cross-sectional x-rays similar to CT.  Mammography is another popular specialization, which utilizes low dose x-rays systems to produce images of the breast.  Physical stamina is important too as radiology technicians may be on their feet for extended periods and may also be required to move and turn patients who are disabled or incapacitated.

Certification

Formal training programs in radiography are offered in hospitals, colleges and universities, and less frequently at vocational-technical institutes and can range in length from 1 to 4 years.  These programs lead to a certificate, an associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree, depending on the program you choose.

The American Registry of Radiology Technologists (ARRT) offers voluntary certification for Radiology Technologists.  Additionally, thirty-five states currently use ARRT administered exams for State licensing purposes.  To be eligible for certification the technologist must graduate from an accredited program and pass the State examination.  Also, to be re-certified, radiographers must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years.

Advancement

As with any career, experience and additional training will open doors which will allow the technologist to advance and become specialists performing CT, MRI, Angiographies, and other related procedures.  They may also promoted to supervisory positions within their specific department; chief Radiology technologist and ultimately a department director or administrator.  Some technologists specialize in a specific occupation and become instructors or directors in radiology technology programs, or may even work as sales representatives with radiology equipment manufacturers.