Start A Career As An X-Ray Professional
No matter what the state of the economy is, there will always be a need for health care professionals. For that reason, many people are turning toward the challenging and fulfilling careers in the medical field, one of which is working as an x-ray technician.
Serving the community as an e-ray tech is very satisfying. It allows you to help patients through advanced technology. There are also many areas in which x-ray technicians can specialize, such as mammography or computed tomography, which is also known as CAT. You can obtain a license to be an x-ray technician through a variety of paths; however, there are certain requirements that must be followed.
If you have already been working in the medical field or have a medical education, you will have an easier time getting qualified to be an x-ray technician. For instance, you might already have a four-year degree in another medical specialty. In such instances, all that you are required to do is complete the x-ray training program that usually spans one year. Research the position you want before taking any classes to ensure you will be properly trained when the time comes for you to apply.
Those of you who have yet to work in the medical field in any capacity will need more education than the one-year supplementary course. There are a number of other options that you may pursue. After high school you can work toward an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree.
These degrees will give you the chance to learn all you can about x-ray technology. You will also be able to study programs that directly compliment your intended career as an x-ray technician. You can receive more guidance from a career counselor or an employed x-ray technician to plan out your career before enrolling in a degree program.
In addition to getting a degree, you should also consider becoming certified. Getting an ARRT certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists will improve your chances of getting employed by medical facilities. You are not required to become certified, particularly if you went to school and achieved a degree; however, certification improves your odds of obtaining, maintaining, and advancing your position as an x-ray technician.
There are other keys to success in the field of x-ray technology in addition to getting an education. Demonstrate that you are passionate about your job and dedicated to working hard. Employers are always in search of x-ray technicians who are smart, honest about their abilities, and capable of working efficiently, independently, and as part of a team without always being supervised. These traits are highly desirable, so it would be to your benefit to refine them in order to obtain and keep a job.
To fulfill your dream of having a career as an x-ray technician, you will need to research the position, get the right education, and present yourself as the best candidate for any open jobs. Chalk out a plan immediately to enjoy the benefits of job security and satisfaction that this job brings.
