Radiology Education &
Training
Proper radiology training is a must if
you plan on pursuing a career as a radiologic technologist or a
radiologist. Courses in radiology can range anywhere from one to four
years depending on the level of radiology education you choose to attain
and the specific job you are looking to do in this field. You can take
up a one-year course that gives you a certificate upon completion or a
four-year bachelor's degree program. There are many career options available for you in the field of
radiology and diagnostic imaging; you can choose to be a radiology
technician, radiologic technologist (or radiographer as they are also
called) or a radiologist. Each of these jobs requires a specific
training. With a job in the field of diagnostic imaging, the learning
can go on and on. A certified radiologic technologist can go on to
specialize in specific areas like CT (computed tomography) scans,
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound imaging and so on. CT scans require a technician to manipulate a special x-ray machine to
capture different angles around the body in cross-section images of
tissue and organs. These images help to detect cancers, diseases,
musculoskeletal disorders. Radiologists can also use these images to
understand the particular body and prescribe the best method for the
treatment of tumors. Capturing an image using a CT scan can take as
short as 5 minutes to as long as half an hour depending on the area of
the body needing to be captured and the purpose for diagnosis. MRIs on the other hand make use of radiofrequency waves and a strong
magnetic field. Images taken using MRI machines are exceptionally clear,
detailing the internal organs and tissues making it a very valuable tool
for detecting injuries in the fine soft tissue areas like the elbow,
shoulder, hip, knee and wrist. An MRI procedure generally takes between
fifteen to forty-five minutes depending on the part of the body you are
taking. Once you receive your radiology education and training, you may
find yourself working x-ray equipment to take x-rays, preparing patients
for x-rays or managing an imaging center. Equipping yourself with good
communication skills is important if you want to keep yourself ahead of
the game. With the growing need for healthcare in our society today, a
career in diagnostic imaging will always guarantee job opportunities. |
