Radiologic Technologist
Career Description
The title of radiologic technologist covers various health care
professionals who use radiation for
diagnostic imaging. Radiographers, who most commonly produce X-rays
of the body, are responsible
for preparing patients for the procedure and developing the films
for analysis by physicians. More experienced radiographers may administer
fluoroscopies, which enhance soft-tissue imaging when taken orally.
C.T. technologists use computerized tomography to view patients cross-sectionally. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologists also are radiographers, but they are skilled in using magnets and radio waves instead of radiation to produce images.
Mammography technologists specialize in the physiological and anatomical anatomy of the breast to assist in the detection of cancer.
Diagnostic medical sonographers and radiation therapy technologists comprise two more subsets of radiologic technologists.
Academic Requirements
Most employers prefer formally trained radiologic technologists, and programs currently exist for radiography, radiation therapy and diagnostic medical sonography. Radiography programs require a high school diploma for admission and may be offered at the certifi cate, associate’s or bachelor’s degree levels. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists offers the ARRT certification for radiographers, the largest group of radiologic technologists.
Schools
Sanford-Brown College - Fenton
636/349-4900
Southwestern Illinois College
800/222-5131
St. John's Mercy Medical Center School of Radiologic Technology
314/251-6933, ext. 21923
St. Louis Community College - Forest Park
314/644-9100
Professional Associations
National
American College of Radiology
American Society of Radiologic Technologists
Radiologic Society of North America
Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography
State
Missouri Society of Radiologic Technologists
Additional Information
Learn More About Diagnostic Imaging ServicesRead Personal Accounts of Current Radiologic Technologists
