Health Careers Spotlight:
Radiographer

Radiographers, also referred to as radiologic technologists, work extensively with computers and specialized equipment to create images that allow physicians to diagnose conditions inside the body. Radiographers work with X-rays. They might specialize in computed tomography (CT scan), mammography, or angiography (imaging of blood vessels).

Some radiographers specialize in several different areas. Ultrasound technologists or sonographers use sound waves to create images inside the body. Physicians might use these images to assess the condition of a specific organ or to see the development of a fetus in a pregnant woman. Magnetic resonance (MRI) technologists use superconductive magnets and radiowaves to gather information about anatomy or the body’s chemical composition.

Job Outlook: The job outlook for radiographers is excellent. Demand is expected to increase at a faster than average rate due to a growing and aging population. Radiographers with cross-training in nuclear medicine technology or other specialties will have the best job prospects.

Salary Notes: Salaries for certified radiologic technologists range from $39,840 to $57,940 per year. More education and training can lead to higher salaries and greater opportunities.

Where you might work: Radiographers work in diagnostic imaging centers, hospitals, industrial research and development facilities, medical and dental laboratories, outpatient clinics and physician offices.

Education, Licensing & Certification: For students interested in a career as a radiographer, high school course work should focus on math and science. Associate and bachelor's degrees are both options for a career in radiologic technology. After earning a degree or certificate from an accredited program, candidates must pass an exam by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists in order to become registered in most states.

Professional Organization: For general information on a career as a radiographer, visit one of the following websites:

• American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
  www.arrt.org
• American Society of Radiologic Technologists
  www.asrt.org
• Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
  www.jrcert.org

For more information on radiologic technologists or another health career in Vermont, please call 802-527-1474.

(updated 3/11/09)

Carole Messier is an Imaging Specialist 2 at Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans.

We interviewed Carole for the Spring 2003 version of The Convener to discuss her experiences working in the healthcare field.

Q How did you become interested in Radiography?
A I wanted a health career, but I did not want to go to school for years and years. I’ve always liked science and math and this job requires a lot of both! The two-year Radiology program at Champlain College appealed to me. I could take my boards for X-ray after completing this program and then still have room to move within my field.

Q How long have you been working in Radiography?
A I have been working in the field for one year. I came to NMC immediately after graduating Champlain College. I had my job here 5 months before I graduated.

Q What personal needs are satisfied by your job?
A I get the opportunity to help people, but I don’t stay with them long enough to get emotionally attached. Also, when I am successful at my job, I have something to look at and take pride in. If I take a good film, I think ‘that’s beautiful’ and I know that I have done a good job.

Q In what ways has your occupation changed you as a person?
A I am more respectful of people in general, and of the elderly in particular.

Q Describe the demands of your job.
A I see mostly ER and clinic patients. Some nights are slow, some nights I see a lot of people that are hurt. You have to come in ready for whatever is given to you. When patients are hurt, they need to understand that we are but one of the steps on the road to recovery.

Q What personal characteristics are desirable to be good at Radiography?
A You must have people skills. Nobody likes a hospital and if people are here, they probably don’t want to be. You have to get your job done without causing patients additional discomfort. Especially with kids, you have to realize their fear and be understanding.