A health care worker who operates a CAT scan machine (known as a CAT scan technician) must go through several years of education before being certified to do so. The exact amount of education required varies from state to state, but the general requirements are the same regardless of where you seek certification.
Radiography Program
The first step to becoming certified as a CAT scan technician is to complete a radiography program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Depending on the state, this program can range from a certificate program or a two-year associate's degree, all the way up to a four-year bachelor of science degree. An associate's degree is the most common requirement.
Courses
Radiography programs are science-based, so their courses are based in the sciences. Students are expected to have a proficient knowledge of at least high school-level math, physics, biology and chemistry. Courses in a radiography program include anatomy and physiology, patient care procedures, radiation physics, radiation protection, principles of imaging, medical terminology, positioning of patients, medical ethics, radiobiology and pathology.
Licensing
To protect patients from the potential hazards of exposure to radioactive elements, CAT scan technicians must be licensed with their specific state. Each state's licensing procedure differs (see Resources), but in general, the technician must contact his state's radiology board, provide it with proof of education and pass an examination.
Certification
Some employers and states also require that their radiology technicians become professionally certified after they complete their radiology program and become licensed. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists certifies CAT scan technicians after they pass an examination but requires that they obtain 24 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain their certification. Though certification is not universally required to become a CAT scan technician, it is generally preferred.
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