If you are interested in becoming an x-ray technician, also known as a radiologic technologist, there are a few steps you will need to take. First, you will need to earn an Associate’s degree in radiologic technology from an accredited institution. Once you have completed your degree, you will need to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam in order to become certified. Once you are certified, you will need to obtain a state license in order to practice.
1. Introduction
An X-ray technician, also known as a radiographer, is a healthcare professional who uses imaging technologies to diagnose and treat medical conditions. X-ray techs typically work in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic imaging centers.
Becoming an X-ray technician generally requires completing an accredited radiography program and passing a state-administered certification exam. Some states also require X-ray techs to be licensed. Although not required, many X-ray techs choose to pursue voluntary certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT).
X-ray techs must be able to safely operate complex equipment and perform delicate procedures. They must also have strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients and other members of the healthcare team.
If you are interested in becoming an X-ray technician, read on for more information about what the job entails and how to prepare for a career in this field.
2. What is an X-Ray Technician?
An x-ray technician, also called a radiologic technologist, is a trained professional who uses diagnostic imaging equipment to help doctors diagnose and treat patients. X-ray techs typically work in hospitals or clinics, but may also work in private physician offices, diagnostic imaging centers, or mobile imaging units.
Education and Training
Most x-ray tech programs take two years to complete, although some may be completed in as little as 18 months. Programs typically include both classroom and clinical instruction, and lead to an associate’s degree or certificate. Some four-year colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degree programs in radiologic technology.
Many x-ray tech programs are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). To be accredited, a program must meet JRCERT standards, which include ensuring that the program is adequate in size, is properly staffed, and provides students with adequate clinical experience.
After completing an accredited program, x-ray techs must obtain a state license. Requirements for licensure vary by state, but most states require x-ray techs to pass an exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Job Description
X-ray techs use diagnostic imaging equipment to create images of the inside of the body. These images are then used by doctors to diagnose and treat patients.
X-ray techs typically work in hospitals or clinics, but may also work in private physician offices, diagnostic imaging centers, or mobile imaging units. They may work full-time or part-time, and their hours may include evenings and weekends.
X-ray techs must follow strict safety protocols when working with diagnostic imaging equipment. They must also be able to keep calm in emergency situations.
X-ray techs typically work under the supervision of a radiologist, but may also work independently.
Salary and Job Outlook
The median annual salary for x-ray techs was $60,070 in May 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS projects that employment for x-ray techs
3. The Educational Requirements
If you want to become an X-ray technician, you will need to complete an accredited radiography program. There are many schools that offer this type of program, so you will have plenty of options to choose from. Once you have completed your program, you will need to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT) exam in order to become licensed.
There are a few different types of radiography programs that you can choose from. There are certificate programs, associate’s degree programs, and bachelor’s degree programs. Which type of program you choose will depend on your goals and your schedule.
If you want to become an X-ray technician as quickly as possible, you should consider a certificate program. These programs can be completed in as little as 12 months. If you have other obligations that make it difficult to attend school full-time, you may want to consider an associate’s degree program. These programs typically take two years to complete.
If you want to pursue a career in management or education, you should consider a bachelor’s degree program. These programs typically take four years to complete.
No matter which type of program you choose, you can be sure that you will receive a quality education. All of the programs that are accredited by the ARRT meet high standards.
Once you have completed your program, you will need to pass the ARRT exam. This exam is divided into two parts, a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam is a multiple-choice exam that tests your knowledge of radiographic physics and procedures. The practical exam is an exam that tests your ability to perform radiographic procedures.
You will need to pass both parts of the exam in order to become licensed. Once you are licensed, you will be able to find a job as an X-ray technician.
4. The Certification Process
The certification process to become an x-ray technician can be completed in a few steps. First, you will need to complete an accredited x-ray technician program. Once you have completed the program, you will need to pass the national certification exam. After passing the exam, you will need to apply for your state license.
5. The Job Outlook
The job outlook for X-ray technicians is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of X-ray techs will grow by 11 percent from 2018 to 2028, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to an aging population and an increase in the number of diagnostic imaging procedures being performed.
X-ray techs can find employment in hospitals, clinics, physicians’ offices, and imaging centers. Many X-ray techs work full time, and some work evenings or weekends. Those who work in hospitals may be required to work on-call shifts.
Most X-ray techs complete an accredited certificate or associate’s degree program in radiography. Some programs offer specializations, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).X-ray techs must be licensed or certified in most states. Some states require certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
6. Conclusion
There are many different paths that you can take to become an X-ray technician. You can either attend a traditional brick-and-mortar school, or you can attend an online school. There are also many different certificate and degree programs available.
No matter which path you choose, you will need to complete an accredited program and pass a state-licensed exam in order to become a licensed X-ray technician. Once you have your license, you can then begin your career in this exciting and growing field.
X-ray techs are in high demand and the job outlook is good. With the right training, you can become an x-ray tech and start a rewarding career.
There are a few things you need to do to become an xray tech. First, you’ll need to complete an accredited x-ray tech program. These programs typically take two years to complete. Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll need to pass the certification exam to become a licensed x-ray tech.
Once you’re certified, you can start looking for jobs. X-ray techs are in high demand, so you should have no problem finding a job. You can work in a hospital, clinic, or doctor’s office.
If you’re looking for a rewarding career, becoming an x-ray tech is a great choice. With the right training, you can start a new career in a growing field.