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Using highly computerized equipment that either detects or produces gamma rays or x-rays, healthcare professionals in diagnostic imaging focus on taking images of various parts of the human body for use in diagnosing medical problems. What is unique about these professions is that they combine cutting-edge technology with intimate patient care.

Normally, education in any of the medical diagnostic imaging professions involves instruction in human anatomy, pathophysiology, radiologic sciences, and patient care, followed by clinical rotations and internships. The oldest of these professions is radiography, which uses x-rays to acquire a diagnostic image commonly known as the “x-ray,” or radiograph. Professionals in this field are called radiographers or radiologic technologists (RT). Their training typically involves two years of postsecondary education culminating in an associate’s degree. A national certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists completes the training process and allows the student entry into clinical practice.

In addition to radiography, there are several other modalities such as nuclear medicine, diagnostic medical sonography (DMS) (ultrasound), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), bone densitometry, mammography, positron emission tomography (PET), and cardiovascular technology. Advanced modalities have their own training curricula, which normally last for a year beyond the initial training in radiography.

A number of universities offer combined baccalaureate-level training in radiography and an advanced modality. These programs produce multicompetent technologists who are sought after by employers because of their unique abilities to function in two or more modalities.

A typical work environment for diagnostic imaging professionals, who are also known as technologists, is the radiology department of a hospital. Depending on their specialization, some technologists work a typical 8-5 shift, while radiographers can be expected to work any one of three shifts. Technologists working in nuclear medicine, MRI, and DMS may work 8-hour shifts but may get called in for emergency services. According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, salaries of diagnostic imaging professionals vary based on geographic location and area of specialization.

Currently, there is an increased demand for professionals in diagnostic imaging in all employment settings, including hospitals, outpatient centers, doctors’ offices, and industry. The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 162,000 technologists currently practice in the U.S. In its latest Occupational Outlook Handbook, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that multicompetent technologists have the best employment prospects.

A shortage of qualified technologists has led to a marked increase in salaries as well as sign-on bonuses of $5,000 or more. Most major urban hospitals offer salaries of $40,000-$45,000 per year, with salaries at rural and community hospitals not far behind.

M. Gary Sayed, Ph.D., author of this “Glimpse,” is dean of the College of Health at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles, California. For more information about diagnostic imaging, contact the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, 15000 Central Avenue S.E., Albuquerque, NM 87123; phone 800-444-2778; fax 505-298-5063; or visit them online at www.asrt.org.

Article courtesy of www.careersandcolleges.com