Become a Radiographer

If you've ever had a broken bone, you're familiar with the work of radiographers. Radiographers take x-ray pictures of patients to help doctors identify broken bones, cancer, ulcers and other abnormalities.
 
The radiographer must have outstanding interpersonal communication skills, since the job very frequently requires interacting with patients and doctors. Radiographers must be detail-oriented and comfortable working with complex machinery. Exposure to radiation is a constant risk in this job, but the danger is minimized by shields and other protective measures that limit the technician's exposure to radiation.

Job Description

Medical radiographers walk patients through all steps of an x-ray. They make sure that the patient removes all jewelry and other items that can disrupt the x-ray, and they protect the patient using lead shields and other protective devices. They also update patient records and maintain radiological equipment.

Salary Guide

According to a 2008 survey conducted by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median radiographer salary is $52,210 per year. Most radiographers in the US earn between $42,710 and $63,010 annually. Entry-level radiographers can expect a starting salary of about $35,000, but that number increases with experience and training. With promotions and higher levels of responsibility, some radiographers can earn up to $75,000 a year.

Education, Training and Work Experience

Radiographer jobs generally require either a certificate in radiology or an associate�s or bachelor�s degree. Certification programs last roughly two years. Most radiographers have an associate�s degree. Coursework for a degree or certification typically includes:
  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Imaging
  • Medical ethics
  • Medical terminology
  • Pathology
  • Patient care procedures
  • Radiation protection
  • Radiation physics
  • Radiobiology.
 
In addition, most states require radiographers to be licensed due to the dangers of excessive exposure to radiation. Licensing ensures that radiographers are trained to protect themselves and their patients.

Career Advancement

As radiographers gain experience, they may undergo additional training to become specialists in CT scanning, mammography, bone densitometry or other areas. They may also move into supervisory positions as chief radiologic technologists or department administrators. With additional education--usually a Master�s degree in Business--a position as a department director may be possible.
 
Some technologists move into education, teaching radiology courses for certificate or degree programs. Others end up working in sales or development for equipment manufacturers.

Related Associations and Groups

Many associations and groups exist for radiographers. They include:
  • American Association of Dental Radiographic Technicians
  • American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
  • American Society of Radiologic Technicians
  • Association of Radiography Educators.
 
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