A critical member of the healthcare team is the radiologic technologist. This person, often referred to as a Rad Tech or RT, operates x-ray machines that produce diagnostic images. As with many careers in the medical field, job opportunities for these healthcare professionals are increasing at a brisk pace and growing faster than the average for all occupations according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. employment of technologists in radiology, and the related fields of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and CT (Computed Tomography) will continue grow over the next 10 years with the medical needs of aging Americans as a driving force for this growth.
Working closely with physicians, Radiologic Technologists provide critical information around injury diagnostics that inform patient care. Work environments are varied and work locations range from hospitals to physician’s offices, outpatient care centers and diagnostic laboratories.
Radiologic Technologists have Opportunities to Grow Their Skills
Why exactly does a Radiologic technologist do? Rad Techs take pictures of patients’ bones, organs and tissue using x-ray or other imaging equipment. Additional training and/or certifications may be required for specific diagnostic imaging tools such as MRI and CT. Because they work directly with patients, Rad Techs need good communications skills as well as technical expertise. Patients undergoing imaging are often injured or stressed and a good bedside manner can help them relax and be as comfortable as possible. RTs can specialize in MRI scans, CT scans and mammography and can advance their careers by pursuing more training and by gaining more experience on the job. Depending on the facility, there may also be management or instructional opportunities.
Beginning Your Career
Fortis offers an associate degree program to train students for entry-level positions in the imaging and radiological profession. If you are interested in a career in medical imaging, please schedule a tour at one of our campuses in Tennessee (in Nashville and Cookeville), Ohio, Maryland or Louisiana that offer the program. Please click here to learn more, or call 1-855-436-7847 for more information.