How to Become a Radiologic Technologist
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Radiologic Technologist
What does a Radiologic Technologist do?
A Radiologic Technologist performs radiological imaging examinations of patients using both stationary and mobile radiographic equipment. Positions patient as needed to obtain optimal images and prevent patient from being exposed to unnecessary radiation. Being a Radiologic Technologist develops exposed X-ray film, ensures proper film identification on all images, and creates x-ray CD copies. Files films, maintains medical records, and performs other related administrative duties. Additionally, Radiologic Technologist typically requires an associate degree in a related area. Requires American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification. Typically reports to a chief technologist or manager. The Radiologic Technologist works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. To be a Radiologic Technologist typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
One job posting you recently stumbled across was for a radiologic technologist.
If you’ve ever broken a bone or had an ultrasound, chances are you were helped by a radiologic technologist.
Most radiologic technologists are experts in x-ray and computed tomography (CT) imaging.
You can safely ignore these common assumptions about radiologic technologists.
Radiologic technologists have a wide range of specialties to choose from, including sonography, mammography and bone density, according to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT).
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Radiologic Technologist
Best tips for those who want to become a Radiologic Technologist
Here are some tips to become a Radiologic Technologist.
Develop Good Relationships With Those Around You.
Keep your patient’s ailment to yourself.
Keep all comments professional – even your personal posts.
Do not “friend” your patients on Facebook (or other social media venues).
Employment opportunities are only growing.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Radiologic Technologist
Best colleges and universities for Radiologic Technologist
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- Cooper Union
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Radiologic Technologist
Is being a Radiologic Technologist Worth it?
Read ahead to check out the enticing benefits of being a radiologic technologist—and see whether they sound like something you might appreciate.
It’s clear that patients benefit from the work of these medical professionals, but they’re also reaping the rewards that come with being a radiologic technologist.
Learn more about these seven advantages radiologic technologists enjoy on the job.
While radiologic technologists do have specific duties they perform on the job each day, the nature of the healthcare setting offers plenty of variety and excitement from one shift to the next.
Radiologic technologists can also gain cross-training experience within the medical setting and go on to pursue specializations in other types of imaging technology, such as MRIs or tomography.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Radiologic Technologist
What skills do you need to be a Radiologic Technologist?
In order to succeed at this level, when working with both management positions and positions more junior, a variety of skills are required. A strong grasp of the following skills is needed to perform this role: Diagnostic Imaging, Medical Equipment Management (MEM), Radiation Safety, Radiologic Care, Radiology Operation Management, Physician Support, Patient Safety, Medical Specialty: Radiology, Picture Archiving and Communication (PACS) Systems, Appointment Scheduling. You would need to be proficient in the following: Medical Practice Management Software. Although there may be many skills for success in this role, some companies may be willing to provide on the job training if you excel in other areas.
Radiologic technologists can steadily increase their income over time by developing specialties, and by acquiring more experience over time.
Along with learning about the technology and equipment required to be successful, a radiologic technologist will also learn a good deal about examination methods, human anatomy, safety around radiation protection, and more about the basics of caring for patients.
A successful radiologic technologist will be comfortable interacting physically with patients, will be comfortable with the human body, and will be confident in their ability to position patients accurately on the table in order to use radiation as safely as possible.
Employers are likely to seek out technologists who are socially competent, compassionate, and emotionally responsible enough to communicate effectively with patients.
Radiologic technology requires you study and maintain an understanding of human anatomy.
Step 6: View average salary for Radiologic Technologist
How much does a Radiologic Technologist make?
The average salary range for a Radiologic Technologist is from $66,542 to $80,811. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
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Average salary for Radiologic Technologist jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Radiologic Technologist jobs, and apply.
Looking for Radiologic Technologist jobs?
Here are some Radiologic Technologist jobs in the United States.