Radiologic Technologist Jobs: A Look at Everything They Do

Unlike more familiar healthcare professionals such as nurses and physicians, what a radiologic technologist is and does may seem mysterious. However, they’re an essential, valued member of the healthcare team and more in demand than ever before.

Why Radiologic Technology Jobs are Increasing

The imaging field is expanding rapidly because imaging technology allows for earlier and better diagnosis of conditions, diseases, and disorders. More accurate diagnostics lead to more precise treatments, which contribute to lower healthcare costs. Because of this effectiveness, radiologic technologist jobs are expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Employers need certified and registered radiologic technologists in hospitals, medical clinics, group physician practices, mobile imaging facilities, and surgery centers.

Once in the workforce, there are opportunities to add specialized certifications such as CT (computed tomography), nuclear medicine, mammography, and cardiac-interventional radiography. (Read more about these opportunities here.)

Radiologic Technologists are Multi-talented

One of the most attractive aspects of learning to become a radiologic technologist is that it combines two distinct abilities – the ability to interact well with people and operate some of the most advanced equipment being used in healthcare today.

To get the best possible diagnostic results, you must gain the cooperation of patients so that you can position them correctly. At times, you may be the only one in the exam room with them, so “soft skills” are always part of a radiologic technologist’s job description. Employers look for staff members who can:

• Use communication skills to relate to people of all ages and from all cultures
• Establish trust with patients
• Be compassionate with patients, helping them feel less alone and less fearful
• Provide motivation and encouragement for patients in pain or under stress.

With a job name like a radiologic technologist, you might think a computer or technical background is necessary. Still, instructors know the real key to success in the profession is the desire to learn and the drive to succeed.

Introduction to the Radiologic Technologist Job Description

There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all job description for a radiologic technologist, but there are typical job duties. Here’s a list of job responsibilities you can expect to see in a radiologic technologist job description:

• Ensures radiology or other imaging equipment is operating to standards
• Documents accurate patient and examination information
• Adjusts equipment controls for optimal imaging results
• Moves (or assists) patients into the correct imaging positions
• Captures the ordered diagnostic images
• Explains the imaging procedures to patients and answers question
• Monitors a patient’s condition during the exam
• Ensures safety of patients during exams
• Complies with federal, state, and local requirements and laws
• Consults with physicians about additional imaging needs as requested.

Preparing for a Radiologic Technologist Career

If you’re looking for a career with purpose and meaning, a radiologic technologist job could be just what you need. Most people choose to acquire the skills and knowledge to become licensed and certified radiologic technologists by earning a 2-year (Associate of Applied Science) college degree in radiologic technology.

Getting a Radiologic Technology Degree at CUKC

Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) offers an accelerated, two-year Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) A Radiologic Technology degree is precisely the type of degree you’d expect from a university specializing in health sciences programs. CUKC is a nonprofit, private university in the award-winning Kansas City suburb of Overland Park, Kansas.

Features of the CUKC radiologic technology degree program include:

• Focused, eight-week evening courses designed for deep understanding
• Experienced radiologic technologists as instructors and program coordinators
• Hands-on training in the University’s on-campus radiologic equipment rooms, demonstration suite, and use of innovative human body replicas
• Classroom knowledge combined with in-the-field experiences throughout Kansas City and surrounding regions.

Request more information about the 2-year degree program at CUKC, or download the new, free eBook, Your Complete Guide to a Career as a Radiologic Technologist!