Health Careers

Radiology Technology

NATURE OF THE PROFESSION

Radiology technologists, also known as radiographers, produce x-ray films (radiographs) of parts of the human body for use in diagnosing medical problems. Experienced radiographers may perform more complex imaging tests. Some radiographers operate computerized tomography scanners to produce cross-sectional views of patients and may be called CT technologists. Others operate machines using giant magnets and radiowaves rather than radiation to create an image and may be called magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologists.

APTITUDES

•   Be able to learn the principles and techniques of radiologic technology.
•   Have good verbal and math abilities.

• Have good eye-hand coordination, finger and hand dexterity, space and form perception, and ability to see differences in objects.

• Be able to handle a variety of activities, keep accurate records, make judgments based on data, and work within precise standards of measurement.

•   Be able to work with a variety of people.

HELPFUL HIGH SCHOOL SUBJECTS

Math up to algebra, science including physics, chemistry, biology and computer applications.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS IN IOWA

•   Allen College
•   Covenant Medical Center
•   Indian Hills Community College
•   Iowa Central Community College
•   Iowa Methodist Medical Center
•   Jennie Edmundson Hospital
•   Mercy College of Health Sciences
•   Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa
•   Mercy/St. Luke's School of Radiologic Technology
•   Northeast Iowa Community College
•   Northwest Iowa Community College
•   Scott Community College
•   University of Iowa

JOB OUTLOOK and SALARY

Employment for radiographers is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations through 2008, as the population grows and ages, increasing the demand for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic technology. Radiologic technologists who are educated and credentialed in more than one type of imaging technology, such as radiography and ultrasonography or nuclear medicine, will have better employment opportunities as employers look for new ways to control costs.

Approximate starting average annual salary for radiologic technologists in Iowa is $25,313.

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

American Society of Radiologic Technologists
1500 Central Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123-3917
(800) 444-2778, Fax: (505) 298-5063
Web

Iowa Society of Radiologic Technologists
3420 East 12th St., Des Moines, Iowa 50316
Web