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Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging exams on patients to help
diagnose medical problems. Diagnostic imaging exams use sophisticated tools and/or
machines to produce images of the internal body structures such as the bones,
organs, tissues, etc. The most common diagnostic imaging tool is the x-ray
(also known as a radiograph). An x-ray machine emits low grad radiation that
passes through the patient?s body. As it passes through the body, it generates
black and white images of the internal anatomy on a special film that is located
on the other side of the patient?s body. (Future technology in radiology includes
generating mainly digital images on computers and eliminating the use of actual
films.) The radiologic technologist (also referred to as a radiographer) uses
this x-ray technology to help diagnose disease and/or injury such as broken bones.
The radiographer will prepare the patient and x-ray equipment for the exam, position
the patient properly under the x-ray equipment, operate the x-ray machine during
the exam, and develop the x-ray. A physician and/or radiologist will then look at
the x-ray to determine if there are any medical problems. In order for the
radiologist to diagnose and uncover the proper medical conditions, the radiographer
must perform the imaging exam properly.
Experienced radiographers may specialize in complex imaging techniques that use
tools other than the general x-ray machine to diagnose medical problems. These
individuals could be called:
Radiographers may also specialize
in the use of high dose radiation to treat cancer patients, and these individuals
are called radiation therapists.
In terms of education, the general radiographer must complete a formal educational
program in the field of radiologic technology. There are three options to choose
from including a certificate program (approximately one year in length), an
associate?s degree program (approximately two years in length) and a bachelor?s
degree program (approximately four years in length). Certificate programs are only
offered to individuals who already have professional occupations such as registered
nurses who would like to also become radiographers. Most radiographers have
associate?s degrees. Individuals who want to eventually work in administrative or
management roles often seek bachelor degrees. It is recommended that an individual
attend an educational program that is accredited by an appropriate agency such as
the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.
After the education process is complete, individuals may become registered
radiographers by passing a national examination given by a nationally recognized
organization such as The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
Employers often require this registration in order to become employed. In the
state of Ohio, radiographers must also be licensed by the Ohio Department of Health.
For additional information on radiography as a career, please visit the
American Society of Radiologic Technologists.
Please use the links provided below to learn more about specific educational programs
pertaining to this field.
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