Radiologic Technology Program
What does a Radiologic Technologist do?
- Use radiation to produce images of the internal parts of a patient’s body
- Use radiation to provide treatment for disease. Review physician’s instructions
- Prepare patient for examination (physical assistance, verbal instructions, reassurance)
- Position patient for x-ray procedure
- Administer drugs and conduct venipuncture as necessary to make organs visible
- Set/operate controls. May operate computerized head or body scanners
- Some technologists operate ultrasound equipment and/or magnetic resonance imaging equipment
- Process image (film and/or digital), prepare records. Make adjustments on machines.
- Specialize in either diagnostic or therapeutic technology
Outlook for profession:
Employment of radiologic and MRI technologists is projected to grow 9 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. As the population grows older, there will be an increase in medical conditions that require imaging as a tool to diagnose them.
- Depends on employer, location, and job description
- Area average $22.00 to $36.00 per hour plus benefits
- Starting range $45,760 to $74,880 per year
- California mean full-time income - $84,162 (source ASRT wage and salary survey 2013)