Classroom Technology

The field of radiologic (x-ray) technology offers an excellent career alternative to those interested in the allied health field. An x-ray technician, or radiologic technologist, is the individual responsible for performing diagnostic x-ray procedures in hospitals, physician offices, and outpatient imaging centers.

The training period for an x-ray technologist is typically 2-4 years in an accredited college or hospital based radiologic technology program. Training will be split between classroom instruction and hands on clinical training in a healthcare setting. The x-ray student will obtain a thorough working understanding of radiographic physics and anatomy, radiation safety, correct patient positioning and method, top quality control, and darkroom abilities. In addition, the student will receive instruction in infection control, sterile method, body mechanics, and patient privacy. The productive student will also possess good communication abilities and demonstrate an ability to speedily adapt to distinct situations.

On completion of training, the x-ray technologist will be eligible to take a national registry examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. This is a comprehensive examination which will address numerous of the abilities needed of the x-ray technologist. Successfully passing the registry examination will permit the student to add the designation RT to their name to signify that they are credentialed as a registered radiologic technologist. Several states will also require a state licensure for radiologic technologists. The requirements for state licensure and continuing education will vary from state to state, even so licensure is normally needed for employment in states that require it.

The employment prospects for radiologic technologists will tend to remain strong due to the health care requirements of our aging population. Whilst most x-ray technicians are employed by hospitals, a substantial number are employed by freestanding imaging centers and outpatient clinics. Others could come across employment in private physician offices such as orthopedic or urologic practices, portable x-ray services, or in sales support.

The x-ray technician has a number of opportunities for advancement by acquiring proficiency in specialized diagnostic imaging areas. Among them are MRI, Cat Scan, Mammography, and interventional radiology. These fields need specialized training that might be acquired via on the job training or extra college or trade school based programs. The technician will be eligible to take an extra registry examination for the specialties listed above that will identify them as proficient in that region. Typically speaking the much more specialties an x-ray technologist can demonstrate proficiency in, the greater the employment alternatives are.