The popularity of radiography in the field of medicine has grown exponentially. Radiographers were encouraged and trained to adopt the new technology of conducting diagnostic tests involving X-rays. It started with fluoroscopy, computed tomography and mammography. Medical radiographers later added ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging to the list of specializations.

Medical radiographers are experts who make use of imaging instruments to x-ray various body parts of human beings, in order to diagnose health problems properly. The procedure incorporates medical imaging actions to identify health related problems. Besides this, professionals also prepare the patients for radiology examinations by positioning them under the machines and ensuring appropriate doses of radiation. In addition, medical radiographers are also responsible for maintaining the records of patients and radiographic machines.

Career Scope In Medical Radiography

Medical radiography holds a promising career path for aspiring candidates. They generally find employment in the offices, hospitals, clinics and diagnostic imaging centers of medical practitioners. They are known to earn between $25 and $35 per hour. Over the next few years, the scope of medical radiography is expected to grow. Nowadays, the diagnosis of a disease without using radiography is considered impossible.

Diagnostic Radiography incorporates both ionizing radiation and non-ionizing radiation, to create images for medical diagnosis. After laboratory tests, the X-ray is a commonly used method to diagnose an ailment. A specially trained professional called a diagnostic radiographer or a radiologic technologist undertakes medical diagnostic radiography.

Dental Radiography makes use of the technique to view teeth, while Projection Radiography involves the creation of images by placing the subject under X-rays or electromagnetic radiation.

Eligibility Criteria

In order to become a successful medical radiographer, you need to complete a graduate program in Medical Radiography. Graduates are offered a number of jobs and many times, they are employed even before the completion of the course. There are many recognized institutes that offer such courses. The American Registry of Radiology Technologists or ARRT manages certifying exams for Radiology Technologists.

The courses help to earn an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Medical Radiography. The basic imaging principles and preparation required for service is taught. More often than not, professionals assume management roles of higher levels, like Chief or Director, both in the private as well as the public sectors. They are also employed by research centers, where the level of seniority depends on the years of experience and specialty skills, in addition to education. The use of applied sciences in diagnosis is increasing by the day and the professionals are much sought after. A career in Medical Radiography is worth considering if you wish to remain in mainstream medicine in the future.