X-Ray Technician: Education, Qualifications, And Employment

Posted by The Popular News Today on Monday, May 21, 2012

By Ronald Greshlamton


An x-ray technician's career can be truly fulfilling as you really do nothing but help others all day. X-ray technicians have the chance to assist people in their medical situations and work with new machines due to constant advances in medical technology. They also have the chance to advance their skills through education and experience, moving into specialties such as sonograms, CAT scans, MRIs, and mammograms. There are a few basic paths to a career as an x-ray tech.

If you are considering a position as an x-ray tech, you may already have some idea of where you would like to work, or, at the very least, what specialty, if any, you would like to pursue. Consult with professionals and others in the field to help you formulate the ideal plan to realize your goals. Career counselors, people currently in this field or even potential employers can advise you on the courses you need to take and the certification you need to earn in order to apply for an x-ray technician's job.

If you have already been working in the medical field or have a medical education, you will have an easier time getting qualified to be an x-ray technician. This might be anything from a diploma to a bachelor's degree in a related field of medicine. Often, all you have to do is take an x-ray supplementary course that takes about 12 months to complete. You can also improve your qualification for the job by doing some research into the type of training that radiology labs tend to prefer for the people they hire.

Without prior medical experience and training, you will not be able to become an x-ray technician through the one-year course. Your option is to pursue a two-year associate's degree or a four-year bachelor's degree. You can further improve your academic qualifications by meeting with a career counselor and reviewing the different academic paths that can help elevate your eventual skill and professional worth.

Certification will enable you to further enhance your career. Most medical centers will look favorably on x-ray technicians who possess certifications from the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists). Although such certifications are optional, especially if you already have a degree, they go a long way in boosting career prospects, job security, possibility of promotion, and general perception of professionalism.

After you become qualified to be an x-ray technician, your next task is to find a job. With more experience you have better chances of getting a job you want. Instead of focusing on your initial pay, look for employment options that can help you build up your resume and gain valuable hands on experience.

A desirable x-ray technician is also intelligent, detail-oriented, and certified. It is also very good to be honest. If you encounter a situation about which you feel unsure or under-qualified, do not hesitate to ask for guidance. Asking for help will give you valuable experience that can help you become a better x-ray technician.

Be willing to do the hard work it takes to get an education and the proper experience if you want to succeed as an x-ray technician. Your career is what you make of it.




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