Training and other prerequisites are required to become an X-ray tech.
Careers in radiology are becoming more appealing in the United States. Working as an X-ray technician is one of the most popular choices amongst radiology professionals. X-ray technicians use imaging technology to take pictures of the inside of a patient's body for the purposes of diagnosing diseases, finding irregularities, or monitoring treatment results. Salaries for radiology technicians can range from $36,000 to $75,000 a year, but to obtain these salaries, certain prerequisites must be met.
High School
A high school student who wishes to enter into the radiology and X-ray technician field of study and work should strive to achieve academic excellence in all subjects. Courses to enroll and excel in are physics, biology, and chemistry as well as mathematics. Since X-ray technicians will be working with a team of doctors as well as hundreds of patients, involvement in extra-curricular activities and school clubs and organizations may be advantageous.
Formal Post Secondary Training
An aspiring X-ray technician has the choice of receiving formal training through a certification program, an associate degree, or a bachelor's degree. The most common path of training is through an associate degree typically lasting around two years. The radiology program chosen must be accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. During school, students will focus on physiology, anatomy, radiation protection and physics, imaging, medical terminology, patient care, and medical ethics. Instruction will be given not only in the classroom, but also in clinical environments where the student will receive hands on experience with radiologic equipment.
Certification
Every X-ray technician is required by federal regulation to obtain certification. This is done to protect radiologists, doctors, and patients for medical malpractice and excessive exposure to radiation. Each state has its own specific requirements regarding certification, but most recognize exams developed and administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). To retain this certification, 24 hours of continuing education must be obtained every two years. Those who wish to work in specialized areas of imaging, such as dental or neurological scanning, will have to obtain specialized certification as well.
Personal Qualities and Ethics
X-ray technicians spend most of their time working with sick people. Like all health care providers, they should be patient, compassionate, and have a strong desire to help people. Physical fitness is also relevant as radiologists and technicians must spend many hours on their feet, lift or physically adjust patients, and work on large or heavy machinery throughout the day.
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