Radiologic Technologists and Technicians: A Look Into the Healthcare Field that Saves Lives
Radiologic technologists and technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare industry. These professionals operate imaging equipment that assists physicians in diagnosing and treating medical conditions. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. In this article, we’ll explore what radiologic technologists and technicians do, provide examples of the job, and explain what kind of education and training is required to enter the field.
What does a Radiologic Technologist and Technician do?
Radiologic technologists and technicians use various imaging technologies to capture images of the inside of the body. They operate X-ray machines, CT scanners, MRI machines, and other imaging equipment. They prepare patients for imaging procedures, explaining the process and positioning the patient correctly. Radiologic technologists and technicians aim to produce high-quality images that physicians can use to make accurate diagnoses.
Examples of Radiologic Technologist and Technician Jobs
Radiologic technologists and technicians work in various healthcare settings, such as:
1. Hospitals- These professionals can work in different departments within the hospital, such as emergency rooms, surgery centers, and intensive care units.
2. Imaging Centers- Radiologic technologists and technicians can work in standalone imaging centers that focus solely on imaging diagnostic procedures like CT, MRI, and ultrasound scans.
3. Private Practices- Some physicians have private practices that have imaging equipment on-site, and they employ a radiologic technologist or technician to handle imaging procedures.
4. Mobile Imaging Units- These are mobile units that move around and offer imaging services for patients who cannot travel to healthcare facilities.
To become a radiologic technologist or technician, one must have a minimum of an associate’s degree. The degree programs focus on anatomy, positioning techniques, radiation safety, and how to operate imaging equipment. In addition, students must also complete clinical rotations in various healthcare settings to gain hands-on experience.
Some states require radiologic technologists and technicians to have a license or certification. The certification requirements vary from state to state, but in general, individuals must pass an exam to become certified. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers certification to those who have completed the required education and training.
Once someone starts as a radiologic technologist or technician, there is room for career advancement. Some professionals may choose to specialize in a specific type of imaging, such as CAT scans or MRI machines. Others may choose to become instructors or work in management positions.
Getting Started in the Field
If you’re interested in becoming a radiologic technologist or technician, you’ll need to pursue an associate’s degree in radiologic technology, complete clinical rotations, and get licensed or certified in your state. Some individuals may also choose to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree to advance their careers further.
In conclusion, radiologic technologists and technicians are essential parts of the medical field. They operate imaging equipment that assists physicians in diagnosing and treating medical conditions. These professionals are an excellent choice for those interested in healthcare and technology. With the right education, training, and certification, individuals can enter this exciting field and work to save lives.
Radiologic Technologists and Technicians Salary Data
| Occupation | Job Level | Salary (US National Average) | Salary (Best Paid Geography) | Salary (Least Paid Geography) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | Level 05 | $60,632.00 | $61,505.60 (Full-time, Level 05) | N/A |
| Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | Level 06 | $70,844.80 | $71,718.40 (Full-time, Level 06) | N/A |
| Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | Level 07 | $73,964.80 | $72,550.40 (Full-time, Level 07) | N/A |
| Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | Not able to be leveled | $75,920.00 | $76,627.20 (Full-time, Not able to be leveled) | N/A |
| Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | Entry | $65,894.40 | $66,851.20 (Full-time, Entry) | N/A |
| Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | Experienced | $74,505.60 | $72,633.60 (Full-time, Experienced) | N/A |
| Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | Union | $92,934.40 | $137,176.00 (San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA) | $66,372.80 (Nonunion, All levels) |
| Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | Nonunion | $66,372.80 | $92,934.40 (Union, All levels) | $45,656.00 (Southeast Mississippi nonmetropolitan area, Part-time, All levels) |
| Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | Full-time | $69,721.60 | N/A | N/A |
| Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | Part-time | $70,865.60 | $85,134.40 (Part-time, Level 07) | $45,656.00 (Southeast Mississippi nonmetropolitan area, Part-time, All levels) |
| Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | Time-based pay | $70,012.80 | N/A | N/A |
The salary data above shows the US National Average salary for Radiologic Technologists and Technicians at different job levels, such as Level 05, Level 06, Level 07, and more. It also includes data for union and nonunion workers, full-time and part-time employees, and time-based pay. The best-paid geography for this occupation is the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA area with a union salary of $137,176.00, while the least-paid geography for this occupation is the Southeast Mississippi nonmetropolitan area with a part-time salary of $45,656.00.
It is important to note that being part of a union can significantly affect the salary of Radiologic Technologists and Technicians, with union workers earning $92,934.40 on average, while nonunion workers earn $66,372.80 on average. The job level and type of employment also play a role in determining salary. Full-time workers tend to earn more than part-time workers, and skilled and experienced workers tend to earn more than entry-level workers.
