An individual must complete a minimum of a certificate program in radiology, take a licensure examination if required her jurisdiction, and apply for open x-ray machine operator positions to become an x-ray machine operator, also known as a radiologic technician or entry-level radiology worker. Depending on how specialized a student wants to be, this could take anywhere from 21 months to four years. With more experience, training, and education, individuals who begin as basic or limited operators can advance in the radiology field.
The first step in becoming an x-ray machine operator is to prepare for the job while still in high school. Physics, math, chemistry, biology, and math are all relevant courses for radiologic technicians. A person should also take courses in health or health professions, as well as computers and communications, if they are offered.
After obtaining a high school diploma or a graduate equivalency diploma (GED), a person should look into radiology programs offered hospitals, vocational and technical colleges, and traditional colleges and universities. A certificate is the bare minimum of training, and certificate programs typically last 21 to 24 months. An associate’s degree, which is the most common educational level for radiologic technicians, is one option. This makes sense for students because the time commitment is similar to that of a certificate program, and an associate’s degree makes it easier to return to finish a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree in radiology can help a person become more competitive or specialize in the field.
When researching radiology programs to become an x-ray machine operator, make sure the program is accredited. Accreditation means that the program has been reviewed and approved a larger agency or organization based on the fact that it meets specific industry requirements and standards. The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology is the major accrediting agency for radiology programs in the United States. High school transcripts, letters of recommendation, preferably from radiology professionals, a formal application form, and an entrance or processing fee are all required for admission to any accredited radiology program.
Someone interested in becoming an x-ray machine operator takes core or foundational courses such as anatomy and physiology after being accepted into a radiology program. Radiology-specific classes, such as radiation physics, patient positioning, radiobiology, imaging principles, and radiation protection, are also offered. Pathology, medical terminology, and medical ethics are all subjects that should be studied further. Despite the fact that some coursework is available online, nearly all programs require students to complete clinical, hands-on study in order to gain physical experience performing x-ray-related tasks.
If their jurisdiction requires it, a person who wants to become an x-ray machine operator must take a competency test for licensure after completing a basic radiology program. Testing and licensure ensure that the student not only understands the technical principles of x-ray machine operation, but also the applications of x-rays in the medical setting and what is required to keep both technicians and patients safe during x-ray procedures. A person may advance to higher level radiology positions, such as technologist or radiologist assistant, with additional education, work experience, and training.