What Is A Radiographer (Radiologic Technologist)?

Radiographers are trained, experienced medical personnel who take x-rays in a wide variety of settings including hospitals, outpatient medical facilities, and private offices. Radiographers use science, high tech equipment, and computers to create medical images that directly lead to diagnosis of medical conditions.

A radiographer creates an x-ray from electricity. Students enrolled in a radiography program learn principles of electrical energy, circuits and how the energy is transformed into electromagnetic radiation, or x-rays. Additionally, student radiographers learn to incorporate their independent judgement with communication and interpersonal skills needed to communicate with people of all ages and backgrounds when they create diagnostic images of all parts of the anatomy. Students are also taught medical terminology, anatomy, radiographic positioning and pathology.

Radiographers are important members of the health care team who are able to integrate science and technology with patient care and compassion. Radiographers have the opportunity to make a difference in someone's life every single day.

The term Radiologic Technology describes the entire family of medical imaging and treatment. It includes:

• Radiography - creating x-rays and Cat scan
• Ultrasound - creating diagnostic medical images using sound waves
• Nuclear Medicine - creating diagnostic medical images using gamma emitting radioactive pharmaceuticals
• Radiation Oncology - use of radiation to treat cancer
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging - use of magnetic fields and radio-frequency waves for creating diagnostic medical images.

Entry level salaries for radiographers start at $36,000 — $40,000 annually. Radiographers have significant opportunity to grow in their careers, knowledge level and income. An experienced Radiographer can always learn and acquire skills in more advanced imaging modalities. Career advancements within the profession are limitless. Radiographers can go on to become educators, managers, administrators, or applications specialists, or can use their skills in marketing to sell medical imaging equipment and supplies.