In the medical field, x-ray pictures (radiographs) are taken by radiologic technologists who operate x-ray equipment. They usually work under the supervision of a radiologist-a physician who specializes in the use and interpretation of x-rays.
There are three specialties within the field of radiologic technology; a radiologic technologist works in all three areas.
The most familiar specialty is the use of x-ray pictures to study and diagnose injury or disease to the human body. In this specialty, the technologist positions the patient and exposes and develops the film. During fluoroscopic examinations (watching the internal movements of the body organs on a screen or monitor), the technologist prepares solutions and assists the physician.
The second specialty area is nuclear medicine technology—the application of radioactive material to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of illness or injury. Working under the direct supervision of a radiologist, the technologist prepares solutions containing radioactive materials that will be absorbed by the patient's internal organs and show up on special cameras or scanners. These materials trace the course of a disease by showing the difference between healthy and diseased tissue.
Radiation therapy—the use of radiation-producing machines to provide therapeutic treatments—is the third specialty. Here, the technologist works under the direct supervision of a radiologist, applying the prescribed amount of radiation for a specified length of time.
During all these procedures, the technologist is responsible for the safety and comfort of the patient and must keep accurate and complete records of all treatments. Technologists also schedule appointments and file x-rays and the radiologist's evaluations.
About three-fifths of all radiological technologists work in hospitals. The remainder works in medical laboratories, physicians' and dentists' offices, federal and state health agencies, and public school systems.
Places of Employment and Working Conditions
Radiologic technologists are found in all parts of the country in towns and cities of all sizes. The largest concentrations are in cities with large medical centers and hospitals.
Full-time technologists usually work a 40-hour week. Those employed in hospitals that provide 24-hour emergency coverage have some shift work or may be on call. There are potential radiation hazards in this field, but careful attention to safety procedures and the use of protective clothing and shielding devices provide protection.
Qualifications, Education, and Training
Anyone considering this career should be in good health, emotionally stable, and able to work with people who are injured or ill. The job also requires patience and attention to detail.
A high school diploma or its equivalent is required for acceptance into an x-ray technology program. Programs approved by the Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation are offered by many hospitals, medical schools affiliated with hospitals, colleges and universities, vocational and technical schools, and the armed forces. The programs vary in length from one to four years; a bachelor's degree in radiologic technology is awarded after completion of the four-year course.
These training programs include courses in anatomy, physiology, patient care procedures, physics, radiation protection, film processing, medical terminology and ethics, radiographic positioning and exposure, and department administration.
Although registration with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists is not required for work in this field, it is an asset in obtaining highly skilled and specialized positions. Twenty-five states require radiologic technologists to be licensed.
Potential and Advancement
Employment in this field, as in all medical fields, is expected to expand rapidly because of the importance of this technology to diagnosing and treating disease. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the field will grow by 9 percent between 2014 and 2024, indicating solid growth.
In large x-ray departments, technologists can advance to supervisory positions or qualify as instructors in x-ray techniques. There is more opportunity for promotion for those having a bachelor's degree.
Income
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for radiologic technologists was $58,120 in 2015. Sick leave, vacation, insurance, and other benefits are usually the same as other employees in the same institution receive.
