Radiology technicians
operate X-ray equipment, along with other technologies.
Radiology technicians, also known as X-ray technicians, take images of the human body using controlled radiation. The technician gives the images to a radiologist, who reads them and presents the findings to physicians and other staff members. Radiology technicians free up the time of radiologists and physicians, so they can concentrate on diagnosing patients. Radiology technicians are not limited to working with X-rays; they also work with mammography equipment, computed tomography (CT) scans and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) equipment.
Function
Radiology technicians are the primary point of contact between the public and the radiology department of any facility. They help patients through the testing, comforting them, answering questions and making sure patients are comfortable and remain relaxed. Technicians utilize safe procedures for giving radiological tests to minimize patients' exposure to dangerous levels of radiation. They are also responsible for operating and maintaining the radiologic equipment. Technicians often provide summaries and written reports of the test results.
Compensation
Radiology technicians' salary varies according to geographic location, level of experience and the job setting. The average annual salary range for radiologists is between $36,918 and $63,028. According to Salary.com, the annual median salary for radiology technicians in December 2010 is $48,080. The website Technician Salaries quotes the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) claiming that the average annual starting salary for new technicians is $36,918, while those with certification from the American Registry of Radiological Technologists earn an average of $56,378 a year with only a high school diploma. Certified technicians with a bachelor's degree earn an average of $63,028 a year.
Work Environment
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 61 percent of all radiologist technicians work in hospitals. The rest work in diagnostic imaging centers, outpatient care facilities, medical and diagnostic laboratories and physician's offices. The majority works a traditional 40-hour workweek, but those in hospitals may work on weekends, evenings or on an on-call basis. They are on their feet for extended period, physically lift and assist patients, and are regularly exposed to significant amounts of radiation, so the job can be physically demanding. Technicians do wear equipment to shield them from the bulk of radiation and their bodily radiation levels are routinely checked.
Qualifications/Education
Radiology technologists must have a high school diploma at a minimum, in addition to a certificate, associate degree or bachelor's degree as a radiology technician from a Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology-approved program. Certificate programs take around 24 months to complete, as does an associate degree program. Technicians must apply for state licensing in 38 states; individual state requirements vary. In states that do not require formal licensing, additional certification will demonstrate a candidate's ability to perform his job. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is a widely known and respected source for voluntary certification.
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