A radiology technician is a member of the allied health field who uses X-ray machines to create images of patients that can be used in disease diagnosis and treatment. Radiology technologists, who use radiation in treatment and diagnosis and are authorized to perform more complex procedures, should not be confused with these medical professionals. A technical school education is required for both careers. Technician programs are typically 18 months long, whereas technologists may require a four-year program.
When a patient requires an X-ray, the radiology technician can prepare the patient for the procedure, explain the test, set up the equipment, and take the X-ray images. This necessitates adjusting the equipment’s settings, shielding the patient from excessive radiation, and developing the film after the images have been taken. The finished X-ray films can be sent to the patient’s doctor for examination, or they can be reviewed a radiologist, a doctor who specializes in interpreting medical imaging studies.
The radiology technician is supervised doctors who give specific instructions on the images they require. A radiology technician may keep records, including a library of patient films that can be examined as needed, in addition to taking X-rays. Technicians may be in charge of maintaining the X-ray facility, supervising the use of the X-ray machine, and using radiation badges to monitor personnel for X-ray exposure during procedures.
In some areas, the term “radiology technician” refers to a person who repairs and maintains radiology equipment rather than a medical care provider. The technician is not involved in patient care in this case, and is only called in when equipment requires attention. To reduce the risk of excessive radiation exposure and ensure that radiology equipment is working properly, it is critical to maintain it properly. People interested in servicing medical equipment can enroll in technical schools or learn on the job under the supervision of an experienced technician.
A technologist, on the other hand, can conduct additional medical imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. In addition, technologists may be involved in the administration of radioactive agents for diagnosis, such as tracers used in imaging studies, and treatment, such as radiation therapy for cancer patients. Because of their broader skill set, technologists are more highly trained and earn higher salaries.