Radiologic technologists work in medical imaging or radiotherapy and can be categorized based on their expertise. They work in hospitals or imaging centers and often specialize in specific procedures or equipment. Some jobs involve administering radiation for therapeutic purposes or management and supervision. Advanced equipment requires additional training.
All radiologic technologist jobs have to do with medical imaging or radiotherapy. Members of this profession work in a variety of different environments, ranging from hospitals to independent imaging centers. Radiologic technologists are often categorized based on which therapeutic and imaging technologies they are used to working with. Advancement in the profession may include a move to a supervisory position or promotion to work with more challenging imaging equipment.
Imaging is crucial to the practice of modern medicine. Medical practice in recent years has tended to promote specialized training in areas related to the practice of medicine, such as pharmacy or radiology. This trend has led to a gradual increase in the technical skill required of members of these professions, meaning that more formal training is required for this type of work than was previously the case.
Most radiologic technologist jobs involve working directly under the supervision of a physician. Technologists are trained to perform procedures safely, but these procedures are often ordered by physicians. A large percentage of these jobs are located in hospitals, as hospitals tend to have the resources to purchase and maintain large, powerful, and expensive imaging systems.
Imaging centers have become more common in recent years, and a good number of radiologic technologist jobs are located in them. These centers specialize in performing medical imaging diagnostic procedures. They typically house very sophisticated imaging equipment, allowing clinics and hospitals to rely on their equipment and services rather than investing in these devices. Working in these centers is similar to working in a hospital.
Many radiologic technologists are initially trained to operate a single specific type of equipment. More advanced equipment, such as CT scanners, often require additional training and specialized skills. Technologists also often specialize in specific procedures. Some may focus on mammography, others on conventional X-ray radiography or nuclear medical imaging.
Certain types of radiologic technologist jobs are involved in administering radiation for therapeutic rather than diagnostic purposes. They determine the correct amount of radiation to use. They also administer therapeutic radiation, although these two specialties are sometimes separated.
Some radiologic technologist jobs involve management and supervision. These jobs are typically filled by men and women who have risen through the ranks and have experience working as ordinary technicians. Men and women at this level can manage imaging centers or therapy programs and have responsibilities in business and medicine.
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