What Does a Radiology Technician Do?
Radiology technicians, often referred to as radiologic technologists or X-ray techs, are essential healthcare professionals who play a critical role in diagnosing and treating patients. They work with advanced medical imaging technology, such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, to produce images that help doctors assess medical conditions. This rewarding career offers job stability, competitive salaries, and a chance to make a significant impact in healthcare. But how to become a radiology tech or how to become a radiology technician? Let’s explore the steps, skills, and certifications required to excel in this field.
Before diving into how to become a radiologist technician, it’s important to understand what the job entails. Radiology technicians are responsible for:
Operating Imaging Equipment: This includes X-ray, CT (Computed Tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and mammography machines.
Patient Preparation: Ensuring patients are positioned correctly and explaining procedures to help alleviate anxiety.
Image Analysis: While radiology technicians don’t interpret the images (that’s the radiologist’s job), they must ensure the quality of the images taken is optimal for diagnosis.
Safety Protocols: Radiologic technologists must adhere to strict safety guidelines to minimize patients’ exposure to radiation.
Record Keeping: Technicians maintain accurate records of the procedures performed, patient histories, and the images produced.
Steps to Becoming a Radiology Technician
If you are wondering how to become a radiology technician, the process generally involves formal education, certification, and licensure. Below are the key steps to get started in this fulfilling career.
1. Complete a High School Diploma or GED
Before enrolling in any post-secondary radiology programs, you’ll need a high school diploma or its equivalent (GED). Having a solid foundation in subjects such as math, physics, biology, and chemistry will prepare you for the more technical and scientific aspects of radiology technology.
2. Enroll in an Accredited Radiology Technician Program
The next step in how to become a radiology tech is to enroll in a radiologic technologist program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Accreditation ensures that the program meets industry standards and prepares you adequately for the field.
There are several educational pathways you can pursue:
Certificate Program: Typically takes about 12-18 months and is designed for those seeking a faster entry into the field.
Associate Degree: Most aspiring radiology techs pursue an Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology. This two-year program provides comprehensive education, combining classroom learning with clinical experience.
Bachelor’s Degree: A four-year bachelor’s program offers more in-depth study and may lead to advanced career opportunities.
In these programs, you’ll study topics such as anatomy, radiologic physics, image evaluation, and patient care. You’ll also get hands-on experience during clinical rotations.
3. Complete Clinical Training
Clinical experience is a critical part of how to be a radiology tech. During clinical rotations, you’ll work under the supervision of licensed technologists in hospitals, imaging centers, or other healthcare facilities. This hands-on experience not only hones your technical skills but also helps build your confidence in patient care and safety practices.
4. Obtain Certification
After completing your educational program, the next essential step in how to become a radiology technician is earning certification. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is the most widely recognized certification body in the United States.
To become certified by ARRT, you must:
- Graduate from an ARRT-approved program.
- Pass the ARRT certification exam, which tests your knowledge of radiographic procedures, patient care, image production, and radiation protection.
- Certification isn’t mandatory in all states, but most employers require or prefer it. Additionally, some states have their own licensure requirements, so be sure to check your state’s guidelines.
5. Get State Licensure (If Required)
Most states require radiologic technologists to be licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state but generally involve passing an exam similar to the ARRT certification exam. Some states may accept ARRT certification as a prerequisite for state licensure.
Check with your state’s health department or the ARRT to determine the licensure requirements for your location.
6. Pursue Specialization (Optional)
While becoming a general radiology tech is a great start, many professionals choose to specialize in a particular area of medical imaging. Some popular specialties include:
MRI Technologist: Specializes in using magnetic resonance imaging machines.
CT Technologist: Specializes in using computed tomography scanners.
Mammography Technologist: Focuses on imaging the breast tissue.
Sonographer: Specializes in using ultrasound machines to create images of internal organs.
Specializing can increase job opportunities, earning potential, and job satisfaction.
7. Stay Certified and Pursue Continuing Education
To maintain ARRT certification, radiology technicians must complete 24 continuing education credits every two years and meet ongoing ethical standards. Many states with licensure requirements also mandate periodic renewal, often with continuing education components.
Key Skills for a Successful Radiology Technician
How to become a radiology technician is not just about formal education and certification. It’s also about developing the right skills and attributes. Some of the key skills include:
1. Technical Proficiency
Radiology technicians must be adept at operating complex imaging equipment, adjusting settings, and ensuring high-quality images. Understanding how to troubleshoot equipment and following protocols for radiation safety are essential technical skills.
2. Attention to Detail
Technicians must ensure precise positioning and correct patient preparation to obtain clear images. Even slight mistakes can result in poor-quality images that hinder diagnosis.
3. Communication Skills
Good communication is crucial for interacting with patients, particularly since many patients are anxious or uncomfortable during imaging procedures. Technicians need to explain the process clearly and provide reassurance.
4. Physical Stamina
Radiology technicians often spend long hours on their feet and may need to assist patients in moving or positioning for scans. Physical stamina and strength are important in this role.
5. Empathy and Compassion
Patients undergoing imaging procedures may be dealing with serious illnesses or injuries. A caring and empathetic attitude can make the experience less stressful for them.
Job Outlook and Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for radiologic technologists is expected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, which is on par with the average growth for all occupations. This demand is driven by an aging population and advances in medical imaging technology.
The median annual salary for radiologic technologists in the U.S. was approximately $63,710 in 2022, though earnings can vary based on factors like location, experience, and specialization.
Conclusion
In summary, how to become a radiologist technician involves completing a structured educational program, earning certification, and, in many cases, obtaining licensure. It’s a field that requires a strong foundation in science and technical skills, but also compassion, patience, and attention to detail.
Whether you’re aiming to become an X-ray tech or specializing in MRI, radiology offers a fulfilling career path with strong job prospects. By following the steps outlined above, you can set yourself up for success in this exciting healthcare profession.
