Radiologists, radiology technicians, and x-ray technicians all work in radiology but have different roles and training. X-ray technicians take pictures of the inside of a person’s body and may work in various settings. Radiologists interpret diagnostic images and may also handle radioactive materials. X-ray technicians cannot issue diagnoses, which is the responsibility of a radiologist or physician. X-ray technicians typically complete at least two years of training and may perform supervisory duties and interpret data.
A radiologist, a radiologist technician and a radiologist technician all work in the same field: radiology. However, they all have different roles to play in providing patient services and may work in different settings. It may also be possible for someone starting their career as an x-ray technician to become an x-ray technician or radiologist, but the training for a radiologist, x-ray technician, and x-ray technician always varies.
X-ray technicians are trained in using x-ray equipment to take pictures of the inside of a person’s body. These images are used in the diagnosis of diseases and injuries. Typically, x-ray technicians receive one to two years of training in vocational school, where they learn how to operate different types of x-ray equipment and how to position patients for efficient imaging.
Radiographers may find employment in hospitals and doctors’ offices, as well as radiology clinics. They can also find work in nursing homes and dental facilities. In some cases, x-ray technicians venture into using other imaging technologies in addition to x-rays, performing MRIs, CT scans, and even ultrasounds. Although some people refer to those who repair x-ray equipment as x-ray technicians, they are more properly termed “x-ray repair technicians”.
An X-ray technician cannot talk to patients about X-ray results or issue diagnoses. Instead, a radiologist or physician typically has this responsibility. A radiologist is a person trained in interpreting diagnostic images, such as those obtained from X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds. Sometimes, a radiologist also handles radioactive materials in the course of their medical imaging work. A radiologist may also find work in a hospital, clinic, doctor’s office, radiology center, dental office, or nursing home.
The difference between an X-ray technician and a radiologist is that an X-ray technician can only take the X-rays while the radiologist gets the images from the technician and analyzes them, making a diagnosis. Sometimes radiologists also use imaging equipment, such as when they work in a small facility that doesn’t also employ a technician. Additionally, radiologists may perform some minor medical procedures that incorporate the use of imaging machines.
An X-ray technician, also known as a radiologist, has typically completed at least two years of intensive training, culminating in a bachelor’s degree or diploma. X-ray technologists use x-rays and other imaging diagnostic tests to take pictures of a person’s interior. Once these images have been taken and developed, an X-ray technician passes them on to a radiologist who will diagnose the patient. Often, X-ray technicians are able to perform supervisory duties and even interpret data in addition to operating imaging machinery.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
