All jobs as a radiologic technologist involve medical imaging or radiation therapy. Members of this profession work in a wide range of settings, including hospitals and independent imaging centers. Radiologic technologists are frequently classified according to the imaging and therapeutic technologies with which they are most familiar. Advancement in the field can take the form of a promotion to a supervisory position or a promotion to work with more difficult imaging equipment.
The use of imaging in modern medicine is essential. In recent years, medical practice has tended to encourage specialized training in fields related to medicine, such as pharmacy or radiology. As a result of this trend, the technical skill required of members of these professions has gradually increased, implying that more formal training is often required for this type of work than was previously the case.
The majority of radiologic technologist jobs entail working under the direct supervision of a physician. Although technologists are trained to perform procedures safely, physicians are usually the ones who request them. Hospitals tend to have the resources to purchase and maintain large, powerful, and expensive imaging systems, so they account for a large percentage of these jobs.
Imaging centers have become more common in recent years, and they employ a large number of radiologic technologists. These facilities are dedicated to performing medical imaging procedures for diagnostic purposes. They usually house advanced imaging equipment, allowing clinics and hospitals to rely on their equipment and services rather than investing in such devices. Working in these facilities is similar to working in a hospital.
Many radiologic technologists begin their careers learning to operate a single piece of equipment. Advanced equipment, such as CT scanners, frequently necessitates additional training and expertise. In addition, technologists frequently specialize in specific procedures. Some may specialize in mammography, while others may specialize in x-ray radiography or nuclear medicine imaging.
The administration of radiation for therapeutic rather than diagnostic purposes is a part of some radiologic technologist jobs. They figure out how much radiation should be used. Although these two specialties are sometimes separated, they also administer therapeutic radiation.
Management and supervision are part of some radiologic technologist jobs. These positions are typically held by men and women who have progressed through the ranks and have worked as regular technicians. At this level, men and women may manage imaging centers or therapy programs, as well as have business and medical responsibilities.