Radiology Careers
About Radiology Careers
Radiology careers involve the use of special equipment to create images of internal organs, tissues, and bones. These images provide information that is used to diagnose medical problems. Radiology careers include radiologists, radiology technologists, and radiology technicians.
After evaluating patient symptoms, radiologists tell radiology technicians which procedure is to be done on a patient. The three main types of radiology procedures are x-rays, fluoroscopes, and sonograms. X-rays are pictures that show the bones of the body. Both fluoroscopes and sonograms show the soft tissues of the body by using sound, magnetic, and radio waves to create images of the inside of the body.
Radiology technologists receive instructions from radiologists about which areas of the body they need images of, and prepare patients for these procedures by making sure patients remove their jewelry so it doesn't interfere with the machinery, and positioning patients on the examining table. During any of these procedures, radiology technologists adjust the controls of the equipment, or monitor images on screens.
During and after a procedure radiology technologists analyze the images, and consult with radiologists about what the images might mean. Radiologist read the images to identify and treat medical problems.
Training/Education
To work as a radiology technologist or technician you mush have a high school diploma or GED, and complete a medical imaging technology program. Technical schools, community colleges, and some universities offer medical imaging technology programs, as well as associate and bachelor degrees in medial imaging technology. In these programs you will study anatomy and physiology, patient care procedures, and medical terminology, as well as radiation physics, radiation protection, and principles of imaging.
Employment
Most employers prefer radiology technologists and technicians who have completed formal training in medial imaging as well as in radiography and sonography. Employers in radiology careers also look for people who pay attention to detail. In most states you must also be registered to take x-rays, which requires passing a state exam. Most radiology careers are found in hospitals, in private doctors' offices and clinics, or with medical laboratories.
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