Radiologists examine X-rays.
Radiologists (also referred to as radiographers) are divided into two categories--radiologic technologists and radiologic technicians. Radiologic technicians perform diagnostic imaging examinations through X-rays. Radiologic technologists employ other imaging modalities such as mammography, tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Both types must follow orders from physicians to perform certain tests to help diagnose medical problems. They must take necessary measures to protect themselves and patients from harmful radiation that can come with these tests.
Education
One of the main differences between radiologic technologists and radiologic technicians is education. Radiologic technicians have two-year associate degrees. Furthermore, almost all states require that radiologic technicians are licensed, though requirements vary from state to state. A state's health care board will have information on become licensed. Radiologic technologists typically have four-year bachelor's degrees. To stay up to date on information in the field, the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) offers certification that requires 24 hours of education every two years for these technologists. Many employers prefer to hire certified radiologists. Those interested in this career should pursue classes in chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics.
Skills
Radiologists must be very personable and sympathetic to a patient's psychological and physical needs. They must be able to work as part of a team, follow instructions and focus on details. Also, in order to operate the complex machinery, they must stay up to date on knowledge of the field as well as posses manual dexterity and mechanical ability.
Duties
Radiologists must diagnose patients using radioactive substances or X-rays. They examine internal organ systems. They treat both benign and malignant external and internal growths using radiation, radioisotopes implanted in or directed toward the specific area of the body and high energy sources. Many specialize in either radiation oncology or diagnostic oncology.
Employers
About 61 percent of individuals employed in this field were employed by hospitals, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor. Of the others, many were employed in physician offices, outpatient care centers and diagnostic and medical laboratories.
Salary
Salary varies greatly based on the specific job in this field. Radiologic technicians earn $40,703 a year, according to payscale.com, while radiology managers average $77,160 and radiologic technologists average $99,582 a year. Physician's assistants in this industry earn an annual median income of $79,857. Radiologists who specialize in diagnostics average $254,341 per year. These figures, from a 2010 survey from payscale.com, can also vary based on geographic location, years of experience and gender.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, employment in this industry is expected to grow at a rate faster than average (17 percent between 2008 and 2018). It's expected that radiologists who possess knowledge of more than one diagnostic imaging procedure (X-ray, MRI, CT, mammography) have the best potential to be promoted. To advance in the field, experience and additional training can allow these individuals to become specialized.
Tags: average year, Bureau Labor, diagnostic imaging, Radiologic technicians, radiologic technicians, radiologic technologists, Radiologic technologists