Posts Tagged ‘radiolog’

How To Get A Job As A Radiology Technician

As the medical field expands, so does the demand for qualified Radiology Technicians.

Radiology Technicians work in physicians’ offices, hospitals, and diagnostic imaging centers.  They work a forty hour week, although weekends and holidays may be necessary in the event of emergencies.  Radiology Technicians work in clean, well-lit surroundings, as assistants to a Radiologist.

The duties of Radiology Technicians vary depending on education and experience.  They may prepare and position patients for procedures, and explain what will occur.  They place film, adjust x-ray machines, take x-rays, and develop film.  At all times they must follow all regulations required to protect patients, and themselves, from excessive exposure to radiation.  Radiology Technicians are responsible for recording data, keeping patient records, and maintaining their equipment.

Radiology Technicians with additional experience and education may prepare contrast mediums which, when taken orally, allow the visualization of soft body tissue.  They may also administer CT Scans, MRIs, and Mammograms.

To be a successful Radiology Technician, you must be detail oriented, able to work as part of a team, able to take direction, and able to deal with patients with respect and discretion.  You must be physically and mentally fit, able to stand for long hours and lift, often heavy, patients.

Education

To become a Radiology Technician, you will first need to get a High School Diploma.  Useful subject to study in High School are English, mathematics, and sciences such as chemistry and physics.

You will then need to take a Radiology Training Program.  These are available at Colleges, Universities, and some Hospitals. Courses cover such topics as pathology, radiation technology, and anatomy.

Radiology Technician training programs run from one to four years.  The one year course offers a Certificate.  The two year course offers an Associate Degree, and the four year course offers a Bachelor’s Degree.  Most employers today require an Associate Degree.  A Bachelor’s degree is preferable for obtaining the best employment opportunities as well as for advancement.

Certification is possible for those who have graduated from an accredited training program.  Candidates must then pass both a written and practical exam.  To maintain Certification, Radiology Technicians must take periodic ongoing training.

Radiology Technicians are, well-paid, respected members of the medical community.