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High Tech, High Touch - the Truth about Radiologic Technologists
There are many misconceptions about Radiologic Technologists. One misconception is that we are button pushers who just take x-rays. The truth is we are health care professionals highly skilled in obtaining the exact imaging needed for a multitude of exams and procedures in such areas as X-ray, CT, MRI, nuclear medicine, mammography, ultrasound, and interventional radiology. Radiologists and referring providers rely on the accuracy of these images to make proper diagnoses for the health and wellbeing of patients.
Our training includes the areas of physics, anatomy, physiology, radiation safety and patient positioning. In addition to a full class schedule, we are required to put in more than 2000 clinical training hours, bolstering our hands-on experience. Our role as technologists requires excellent communication and organizational skills. The job can be physically and emotionally demanding which necessitates qualities of compassion, empathy, and approachability.
Radiologic Technologists are a friendly face to the scared and nervous patient, keeping them informed and comfortable in uncertain and sometimes frightening situations. We are a proud profession that play a vital role in patient care and we take that role very seriously.
With the constant demand for qualified technologists, becoming a certified Radiologic Technologist provides many career opportunities. Being able to work across the country in a variety of settings including hospitals, outpatient centers and medical offices is one such opportunity. Within the hospital setting, you can choose to work in a rural, acute care, or academic facility each providing their own clinical experiences.
Another opportunity is obtaining advanced certifications in areas such as CT, Mammography, MRI, and Vascular Interventional radiography. Being certified in multiple modalities not only affords new learning experiences but makes us a more valuable resource with a highly sought-after skillset.
In a profession where the learning is an ongoing opportunity and with the rapid advancements being made in the Imaging field, being a technologist puts us at the center of Imaging innovation. It’s exciting and rewarding to be taking part in this revolutionary technology that is leading to improved diagnoses and ultimately enhancing patient care.
Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of the important and vital role Radiologic Technologists play in patient care. As you can see our profession is definitely high tech and high touch.
Proud to be a Radiologic Technologist!
Judy Zakutny
Imaging, Operations Manager