How To Get A Job As A Radiology Technician
As the field of medicine grows, there is a increasing demand for the services of skilled Radiology Technicians.
Radiology Technicians work as assistants to Radiologists. They work in clean well-lit surroundings in diagnostic imaging centers, physicians offices, and hospitals. The duties of a Radiology Technician vary depending on their education and experience. Among other things Radiology Technicians prepare patients for treatment and explain what is going to occur. They position film, take x-rays, and develop film. They are responsible for protecting patients and themselves from excessive exposure to radiation.
Radiology Technicians with advanced academic qualifications may be responsible for preparing contrast mediums for oral administration. These mediums enable testing to show soft body tissue.
To be a successful Radiology Technician, you must be physically and mentally fit, able to stand and concentrate for many hours at a time, as well as lift and position, often heavy, patients. Technicians must have good communication skills, be detailed oriented, treat patients with confidentiality and respect, and enjoy working as part of a team.
Radiology Technicians usually work a forty hour week, with occasional weekends or holidays, if emergency situations arise.
Education
To become a Radiology Technician, you must first obtain a High School Diploma. High School courses that would be beneficial are mathematics, English, and sciences such as chemistry and physics.
After completing High School, you will need to need to take a Radiology Technician Training course. These take from one to four years, and cover such subjects as anatomy, pathology, radiation technology. A one year course provides a Certificate. A two year course provides an Associate Degree, and a four year course provides a Bachelor’s Degree.
Most employers today require at least an Associate Degree, and prefer a Bachelor’s Degree. Always get the best training you can afford, especially if you wish to advance in your field.
Training courses for Radiology Technicians are offered in Colleges, Universities and some Hospitals.
Certification is available to those who have graduated from an accredited program. To become certified, you must pass a written and practical exam. Certified Radiology Technicians must take periodic retraining. Although certification may not be essential in your area, it is an asset for employment and advancement.
With additional experience and education, Radiology Technicians can advance to specialize in either CT Scanning (Computed Tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), or Mammography.
Radiology Technicians are well-paid members of the medical community.
