Radiological Technologist Career Guide

Overview and Job Duties

Over the ages, there has been a tremendous amount of growth in the health care sector. Since the dawn of technology many issues of health seem to have settled down and easily cured. On the other hand, there has been an outburst of issues that never existed before. Today gigantic machinery is part of more or less every health care setting. This seems to have made life easy and in this sector it has been doing wonders to cure patients. Radiological technologists are one of those professionals who have been playing pivotal role in assisting doctors and patients for a better and permanent cure.

Radiological technologists maintain and adjust the imaging equipment according to the requirements. They need to be in coordination with physicians and follow their instructions regarding what body areas to image. They also check medical history of patients and answer queries related to the process of radiology. They also need to provide patient with protective shield so they may not be exposed to hazards of radiation. In order to get a correct image, the need to reposition patients accordingly. For taking images, they make use of computerized equipment and consult with radiologists if more images are required. Patients are given a mixture to drink by them which helps in viewing soft tissues clearly when reviewed by a radiologist.

Radiological technologists need to ensure safety measures with the help of safety gears such as shielding devices, gloves, aprons and protective lead. They are required to perform their duties for long hours on the feet and help disabled patients to turn and support them to stand and walk.

Career Outlook

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, since 2011, more or less 220,540 people were employed in this area at the rate of 0.9 %. The job outlook may vary according to the Education and experience of an individual, while they are mostly seen working in radiology centers and hospitals.

Salary

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics since 2011, annual median salary of Radiological Technologists is more or less $55,120. The level of education and experience matters the most for advancing into the field and attaining benefits and competitive salary.

Educational Requirements

To start off with this career, students must attain required education and develop skills throughout their academic life. Candidates need to have an associate or a bachelor’s degree besides formal training. In order to be an authenticated technologist, they need to attain accreditation from American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT).

Educational criterion also depends upon regulations of the state you have selected to earn a degree. In case you may not be able to pursue conventional campus based education, you could opt for an online degree in radilogic technology. This way you will be able to save money as well as time. It may also help to continue education without any hassle.

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