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Radiologic technologists also called radiographers, use x-ray machines and other equipment to create images of the internal structures of the body. This allows physicians to study the organs and bones for injury and disease. They give patients contrast agents so those body organs will be visualized. Radiologic technologists process and evaluate film, and educate patients on procedures. Radiologic technologists usually work under the direction of radiologists or other physicians.
Radiologic technologists usually work in hospitals, clinics, physician offices, and public health departments. Most full-time radiologic technologists work about 40 hours a week; they may have evening, weekend, or on-call hours.
$66,600
Overall employment of radiologic and MRI technologists is projected to grow 13 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. As the population grows older, there will be an increase in medical conditions that require imaging as a tool for making diagnoses.
Radiologic technologists receive their education at community colleges, universities, or in hospital-sponsored programs. The program is usually two years in length. Students earning their bachelor’s degree may go through a 2 + 2 program, meaning two years of preparatory college courses and two years of professional courses in radiologic technology.
Education in radiologic technology is available in 2-year hospital sponsored certificate programs, 2-year associate degree programs, and 4-year bachelor’s degree programs. With additional training, a technologist can specialize and work in advanced and specialized modalities, such as CT scanning, MRI, and angiography. Registered radiologic technologists may take advanced level examinations in mammography, cardiovascular-intervention technology, computer tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and quality management.
Licensure is required in the state of Connecticut. Prerequisite: Connecticut requires successful completion of an approved radiologic technology program and passing the ARRT’s examination in Radiography or Radiation Therapy technology.
American Society of Radiologic Technologists
15000 Central Avenue, SE
Albuquerque, NM 87123
800-444-2778
www.asrt.org