An x-ray technician is an individual who has undergone specialized training so that he can take x-ray images of the body in a medical setting. X-rays are commonly used to take make images of the body’s internal organs, especially the bones. Doctors and radiologists then take these images to make medical diagnoses and determine treatment plans.
X-Ray Technician Job Duties
A day in the life of an x-ray technician can be rather unpredictable. X-ray technicians work in a wide variety of health care settings, including dental offices, laboratories and imaging centers, and hospital settings.
The x-ray tech’s job is to take the patient through the procedure from start to finish. You’ll start by clarifying the identity of your patient. After that you will prepare him for the procedure by removing any jewelry that might interfere with the x-ray itself before positioning your patient so that you can get the image you need. The position of the patient will be determined by the area of the body that needs to be imaged. You’ll use protective barriers to protect your patient from absorbing extra x-rays. After the procedure, you’ll help your patient back to a normal position. Depending on the atmosphere in which you work, you may or may not be responsible for developing the x-ray image before it is passed on to a licensed radiologist or doctor for interpretation.
X-Ray Technician Training
There are several different types of programs you can choose from if you’d like to become an x-ray technician. Programs generally range from 1-4 years in length, depending on the type of institution you attend and your ultimate goal.
Individuals who are already members of the health care field may appreciate a shorter, 1-year certificate program. Those who would like to start working sooner but who do not have a medical background may want to opt for a 2-year associate degree program. Most 4-year programs come with a bachelor degree and are best for those who want the added skill to eventually work into management or administrative work.
Certification and Licensing Requirements
Because of the hazards associated with working with x-ray materials, the federal government made it mandatory for there to be training for those handling this type of equipment. Each state has its own set of guidelines and most now require x-ray techs to be licensed. You will need to check on your own state’s regulations to determine the exact criteria you must meet.
The most popular certification group for x-ray technicians is the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (AART). Upon completing a program with an accredited school, many future x-ray techs will sit for the certification exam through AART. Many states will allow the AART exam results to be used in the application for licensing. In order to maintain your AART certification, you must earn 24 hours of continuing education credits during each 2 year period.
Average Salary for X-Ray Technicians
The average median salary for an x-ray technician, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is approximately $52,000. Entry-level technicians average approximately $35,000 per year while the most successful technicians can earn as much as $75,000 annually. Your own salary will depend on your education, level of experience, employment setting, and geographic location.
Advancement Opportunities for X-Ray Technicians
Those working as x-ray technicians have quite a bit of opportunity for advancement. X-ray falls under the category of radiology, which also includes CT scanning, MR imaging, bone density work, and even mammography. Those looking to advance in the field should be cross-trained so that they are more valuable to their employers.
As noted earlier, those with higher levels of education, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, may even be able to move into a management position. Those who would like to pursue a higher level of education may opt to continue with medical school to become a full-fledged radiologist, learning to read images and diagnose medical conditions.
Job Outlook for X-Ray Technicians
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of radiology is expected to grow by about 17% between 2008 and 2018. This is a huge rate of growth signifying much faster growth then most other fields. This increased demand will occur because of the increased elderly population, especially as the baby boomers age and become more susceptible to illness and injury. Imaging is now used more often than ever to diagnose and monitor a wide variety of illnesses, so the increase in testing means an increased demand for skilled workers.
X-ray technology is an incredible area of expertise, whether you’re just getting started in the field of medicine or are looking for a change. Give it a try and you’ll be surprised at how rewarding and fulfilling this career path can be.
