9 Top Career Options in Radiologic Technology

9 Top Career Options in Radiologic Technology Employment in radiologic technology is expected to grow 9% from 2018 to 2028. If youre searching for a job that has job growth plus an excellent salary, then look no further. In this article, youll discover the top 9 careers in radiologic technology plus details of each position. Read on to discover all about your new rewarding career in radiology. What Do Radiologic Technologists Do Before diving into the many radiology technologist careers, its important to understand what exactly a technologist in this field does. Youll be performing diagnostic imaging examinations and radiation therapy treatments. You can work in a range of different offices including hospitals, clinics, physicians offices, or clinical specialties such as orthopedics. Youll learn anatomy, examination techniques, radiation safety, patient care, and many more subjects in your education and training. You must at least get an associates or above to become a radiologic technologist, plus pass a national certification examination. To remain registered in this position youll be required to earn 24 continuing education credits every 2 years. Learn more about continuing education requirements for radiologic technology and why its beneficial. 1. Angiography Technologist An Angiography Technologist, also known as an interventional radiologist, use an imaging technique known as angiography to see the inside or lumen of the blood vessels, and organs of the body. A radio-opaque contrast agent is injected into the blood vessels, and x-ray imaging is used such as fluoroscopy. Work Environment The work environment for this is usually in outpatient centers, hospitals, clinics, or labs. In order to obtain certification for this, you must already have a certification in radiology. 2. Computed Tomography Technologists As a Computed Tomography Technologist, youll be using a sensor assembly and a rotating x-ray unit to observe slices of anatomy within the body. The computer assembles and stacks the slices, and then creates images physicians can see. Physicians can then view images of organs layer by layer which isnt possible with general radiography. Work Environment Youll work in outpatient centers, hospitals, clinics, or labs. You must complete an educational program related to the radiology field, and register with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists(ARRT). Many start out as radiologic technologists and then take advanced training to become a Computed Tomography Technologist. 3. Radiographer Radiographers use radiation to produce 2-D black and white images of the patients anatomy. Radiographs can be used to find foreign objects in the body, detect bone fractures, and show the relationship between the bone and soft tissue. To become a radiographer youll need an associates degree in radiography or a bachelors in medical radiography. 4. Sonographer The average salary of a Sonographer is $67,332 a year. As a Sonographer, youll use sound waves to receive images of tissues and organs in the body. Youll place a device called a transducer in contact with the patients body. The different types of Sonographers are general, echo, OB/Gyn, and vascular. Work Environment You can work in outpatient clinics, physicians offices, hospitals, or freestanding imaging clinics. Youll need a 2-year degree plus certification. 5. Vascular Sonography Technologist As a Vascular Sonography Technologist, youll work closely with surgeons, cardiologists, and radiologists. Youll also help physicians with diagnosing and treating vascular disorders. They also perform non-invasive exams to determine vascular diseases or disorders. Work Environment They normally work in hospitals. To become a Vascular Sonography Technologist, youll need to earn credentials for a Registered Vascular Technologist. Youll need an associate or bachelors within cardiovascular technology or diagnostic medical sonography. 6. Radiologic Assistant These are trained radiologic technologists who have done advanced study and work under radiologists. They manage patients, conduct tests, and make judgments based on preliminary results. Only a licensed radiologist is able to make official diagnoses from radiologic images though. Work Environment You can work in local, private, and state hospitals. Also, physicians and dental offices as well. 7. Radiologist A Radiologist is a licensed medical doctor who has specialized training in conducting radiological tests and reading digital images. They can diagnose illnesses and abnormalities in the human body. You must complete an undergraduate degree, 4 years of medical school, a year of internship with a medical facility or hospital, and pass a medical licensing exam. Then, they do 4 more years of residency in radiology. 8. Nuclear Medicine Technologist Nuclear Medicine Technologists conduct trace amounts of radiopharmaceuticals to a patient. They also use a scanner to detect gamma rays given off by the radiopharmaceuticals. Then, they create an image of the body part under the examination. Work Environment Most Nuclear Medicine Technologists work in hospital settings, but some work in imaging clinics or physicians offices. Youll normally need an associates in nuclear medicine technology for this field plus become certified. 9. MRI Technologist As a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist, youll use magnetic resonance imaging scanners to take specific pictures requested by the ordering physician. Its required to follow a doctors requests and instructions, prepare and use MRI equipment, place patients properly, and then record the diagnostic images. Work Environment Theyre normally in hospitals and diagnostic imaging centers. Youll need an associates or bachelors degree in the radiology field. Many radiologic technicians gain experience first and then move on to become an MRI Technologist. Radiologic Technology There are various opportunities in radiologic technology that youre bound to find the right fit for you. Whether you want to work under a radiologist or as a sonographer, the salary is great and there are many job opportunities. Would you like to learn more about everything from careers to lifestyle? Check out our other articles.