Monday, August 22, 2011

Career Options In Medical Imaging

By Rodrick Ronaldson


Amongst the various technologies and advances that have influenced modern medicine, the most profound of these are those related to medical imaging. It has significantly reduced guess work and made things simpler for the medical fraternity. Of all the radiology and imaging technologies, X- ray is the oldest and one of the most widely used. These days, considering how expensive and complicated imaging equipments are, to be a x-ray technician one has to undergo a certification program from a X ray technician school.

A career in medical imaging and radiology holds promise. A degree or a diploma from an X ray technician school is a required to step into the industry. There are large numbers of accredited programs offered by a number of radiology technician schools. Medical imaging is not just limited to X-ray; it also includes ultrasound imaging, MRI and CT scan - the mainstream imaging technologies in use. These imaging devices are very expensive to maintain and operate, hence skilled technicians are required for the job.

For the most part, a radiology technician's job consists of machine operation, ensuring patient safety and diagnosis. Salary of a radiology technician varies from state to state depending on the factors of demand and supply. Furthermore, your educational qualification will also determine your market value. For example, a bachelor's degree in radiologic technologies will fetch you a better paying job than a basic certification or associate's degree. Certificate courses and associate degrees are offered by a number of on and off campus vocational x-ray technician schools.

A one year certification course will fetch you a assistant level job. If you join an online course, you have to train at a local school and then take the certification test. For most, the associate degree, a 2 year program, is the most preferred one. Most x-ray technician schools offer both these courses. There are also more advanced 4 years bachelor programs that give a range of career options and qualify you for more responsible jobs as administrators etc.

Once your training is completed you must take the certification test conducted by American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). A license or certification is a necessity these days and almost all healthcare institutes will ask for one before they consider employing you. There are also more advanced courses on ultrasound imaging and MRI. A large number of radiology and imaging schools also have certification programs for ultrasound technicians or you can join an ultrasound technician school, or join an online program for the same.




About the Author:



No comments: