Radiologic Technologist Careers

Radiologic Technologist Career Overview

Radiologic technologists (also known as radiology technologists, radiology techs, radiologic techs, etc.) perform X-rays and place nonradioactive matter into patients' veins in order to diagnose problems. These technologists must be able to obey a doctor's instructions carefully and comply with regulations that deal with the protection from unnecessary radiation. Other responsibilities of a radiologic technologist are:

• Prepping patients (removing jewelry, etc.)
• Maintain patient records
• Maintain equipment
• Create work schedules
• Manage imaging departments
• Purchase equipment

Becoming a radiologic technologist will allow you to pursue several options in this career field.

Radiologic Technologist Training and Education

Formal training programs in radiology can last anywhere from one to four years. Radiologic technology programs require the minimum of a high school diploma or GED to enroll. However, there are certain high school courses you should consider taking to prepare for this career. These classes include:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Mathematics

The formal training programs you will receive include courses in:

• Pathology
• Radiobiology
• Medical ethics
• Positioning of patients
• Medical terminology
• Principles of imaging
• Radiation protection
• Radiation physics
• Patient care procedures
• Physiology
• Anatomy

You will also receive hands-on experience to round out your training. Once completed, an associate's degree is the most common certification.

Radiologic Technologist Career and Salary Outlook

Careers for radiologic technologists are projected to be ample considering a handful of employers have indicated that they have not been able to hire enough. Hospitals will continue to be the biggest employer of radiologists. Doctor's offices and diagnostic imaging centers will also be on the lookout to employ radiologic technologists because of the shifting focus to outpatient care. By receiving additional training and experience, you can specialize in:

• CT scans
• MRIs
• Angiography

Radiologic technologists earn, on average, about $38,000 per year. More experienced technologists can expect to bring in between $46,000 and $55,000 per year. As radiologic personnel leave the profession, they can expect to be replaced rapidly by a new era of experienced technicians.

Career Fields/Specializations

Radiologic Technologist Career

Radiologic technologists have the opportunity to branch out into one of these exciting job opportunities:

• Radiation therapist
• Ultrasound technician
• Nuclear medicine
• Teleradiology
• MRI technician
• Mammography technician
• Ethocardiographer
• Bone densitometrist

MRI Technologist Career

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a procedure that creates images of the body using powerful magnets and radio waves. As an MRI tech, you will use your training and knowledge of anatomy, physiology, patient care and MRI safety to assist in the diagnosis of disease and injury. Employment options for trained MRI techs include:

• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Private sector education
• Sales and research

Radiologic technologists with experience performing MRIs will have an edge over other technicians in the field. Employers consistently are looking to employ multi-skilled employees. Median annual earnings for this position are approximately $43,000 with the highest 10% earning more than $60,000 per year.

CT Technologist Career

As a CT technologist, you will be operating and utilizing computerized tomography (CT) scanners to produce images of patients' internal organs and tissues. This, in turn, will be used in the diagnosis of a medical issue. A CT tech must possess the basic skills and abilities to:

• Accurately interpret a physicians' scanning instructions
• Administer contrast materials
• Prepare and operate CT scan equipment
• Position patients to capture appropriate images

A CT technologist should also be in fairly good health since maneuvering equipment and disabled patients may pose a physical challenge.

In order for a CT technologist to be qualified for a position, they must have completed an accredited educational program related to radiology and be registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Most CT techs begin their careers as radiology technicians and then pursue advanced training to become CT techs. In today's job market, CT techs earn, on average, $48,000 to $52,000 a year. With more advanced training, they can expect to earn upwards of $55,000 per year.

Radiographer Career

As a radiographer, you will be trained to use ionizing radiation (X-rays) to create images of body parts and organs for medical diagnosis. Radiographers will prepare patients for X-rays, explain the process of examination, and properly position patients for the exam. Exams can vary in degree from simple hand X-rays to more complex examinations of the kidneys after a complex media has been injected. Radiographers can work in several settings such as:

• Outpatient clinics
• Performing complex procedures in surgery
• Working in hospitals performing exams on patients of all ages

Career opportunities in radiography are in high demand throughout the U.S. With further experience you will find opportunities in advanced education, management, and imaging modalities. Starting salaries for radiographers can start at $30,000 to $35,000 per year and extend to above $55,000 per year for those who specialize in CT, MRIs, and special procedures.

Overall, a career in radiology will offer students a diverse field of specialties that they can pursue. It's not only an interesting career, but a rewarding one as well.