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If you want to become an X-ray technician you’ll need to complete an accredited training program and pass a certification exam. Read on to learn more about what you need to do to become an X-ray technician.
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Introduction
An X-ray technician is a healthcare professional who uses specialized equipment to create diagnostic images of the human body. These images are then interpreted by physicians to diagnose and treat various medical conditions.
Becoming an X-ray technician requires completing an accredited training program and passing a state-level licensure exam. Although not required, many X-ray technicians choose to pursue voluntary certification through a professional organization such as the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Read on to learn more about how to become an X-ray technician.
What is an X-Ray Technician?
An X-ray technician, also called a radiologic technologist, is a medical professional who uses imaging technology to produce images of the human body. These images are used by physicians to diagnose and treat medical conditions.
X-ray technicians must be certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in order to practice. Certification requires passing an exam that covers both theory and clinical skills. Many X-ray technicians also choose to pursue additional certification in specific areas of radiography, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
X-ray technicians typically work in hospitals, but may also work in outpatient care centers, diagnostic imaging centers, or physicians’ offices. They may work full time or part time, and their hours may include evenings and weekends.
The Job of an X-Ray Technician
An X-ray technician, also called a radiographer, is a healthcare professional who uses specialized equipment to create images of the human body. These images are used by physicians to diagnose and treat patients.
X-ray technicians must complete an accredited training program and become licensed by their state in order to practice. Training programs typically take 2 years to complete, and include classroom instruction as well as clinical experience.
After completing a training program and becoming licensed, X-ray technicians may find employment in hospitals, clinics, or private practices. Some X-ray technicians specialize in a particular area of imaging, such as mammography or computed tomography (CT).
The Education and Training of an X-Ray Technician
An X-ray Technician, also known as a radiologic technologist, is someone who uses diagnostic imaging equipment to capture images of the human body. These images are then used by physicians to make decisions about patient care.
Becoming an X-ray Technician requires completing an accredited radiography program. These programs are typically two-year associate’s degree programs, but there are also certificate and bachelor’s degree programs available. Admission into these programs is competitive, so it’s important to have a strong academic record and good scores on entrance exams.
Once you’ve been accepted into a radiography program, you’ll complete coursework in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and imaging equipment operation. You’ll also complete clinical rotations where you’ll gain hands-on experience working with patients. Upon completion of your program, you’ll be eligible to take the national certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Once you pass this exam, you’ll be a certified X-ray Technician and can begin your career.
The Salary of an X-Ray Technician
The salary of an X-ray technician varies depending on experience, education, and location. In the united states the median salary for an X-ray technician is $52,000 per year. The top 10% of earners make more than $73,000 per year, while the bottom 10% make less than $37,000 per year.
The Future of an X-Ray Technician
With the technological advances in medicine and the ever-growing demand for diagnostic imaging, the future looks bright for those interested in becoming an X-ray Technician. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 10% increase in the field of Diagnostic Imaging by 2024. This is good news for those who are considering this as a career choice.
There are many reasons why someone would want to become an X-ray Technician. For starters, it is a very rewarding profession. An X-ray Technician is able to help doctors diagnose and treat their patients. They are also able to see firsthand the difference that they make in people’s lives.
Becoming an X-ray Technician is not as difficult as one might think. There are many schools across the country that offer training programs. These programs typically last between one and two years and result in an Associate’s degree or certification.
Once someone has completed their training, they must then pass a national exam in order to become certified. After that, they will need to obtain a state license. Each state has different requirements, but most require that the person take continuing education courses in order to keep their license current.
The salary of an X-ray Technician can vary depending on their experience and location, but the average salary is around $60,000 per year. With the expected growth in the field, there will be plenty of opportunities for those interested in becoming an X-ray Technician.
Conclusion
An X-ray Technician may find employment in a hospital, clinic, doctor’s office, or diagnostic imaging facility. Once hired, an X-Ray Technician will be responsible for providing quality patient care while performing diagnostic imaging examinations. Many X-Ray Technicians find great satisfaction in helping others and working in the medical field.
