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Considering a career in radiology? Here’s everything you need to know about how to get certified as a radiology technician.
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Introduction
Radiology certification is required in order to work as a radiology technician. There are a few steps that you need to take in order to get certified. First, you need to graduate from an accredited radiology program. Next, you need to pass an exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT). Finally, you need to maintain your certification by completing continuing education credits.
What is radiologic technology?
Radiologic technology is a field of medicine that uses imaging technologies to diagnose and treat medical conditions. Radiology technicians, also known as RTs, work in hospitals, clinics and other healthcare settings to provide imaging services to patients.
RTs use X-ray machines, computed tomography (CT) scanners and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines to create images of the human body. These images are then interpreted by radiologists, who are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions using imaging technologies.
In order to become a radiologic technologist, one must complete an accredited radiography program and pass a state-recognized certification exam.
What are the duties of a radiologic technologist?
Radiologic technologists, also known as radiographers, perform diagnostic imaging examinations using x-ray, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, and mammography. They produce images of the human body that radiologists use to diagnose injury and disease.
Technologists typically work in hospitals, although they may also work in physician offices, out-patient clinics, and mobile imaging units. They usually work full time, although some jobs are part time. Many technologists work evening or weekend shifts to cover all hours that patients need diagnostic imaging services.
Most radiologic technologists need an associate’s degree from an accredited program. Some states require licensure or certification, although requirements vary by state.
Education and Certification
Before beginning your radiology technician education, it is important to know that there are no specific education requirements to become a radiology technician. However, most employers will require you to have at least an associate’s degree in radiologic technology. You can also get certified through the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT).
What education is required to become a radiologic technologist?
All 50 states and the District of Columbia regulate the practice of radiologic technology, and all require licensure, registration or certification for practitioners. Most states recognize certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), which offers primary certification in radiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), radiation therapy, sonography and nuclear medicine technology. To be eligible for the ARRT credential, candidates must graduate from an accredited educational program and pass an exam.
Continuing education is required for ARRT-certified technologists to maintain their credentials. The ARRT requires 24 credits every two years, which can be earned through a variety of activities such as attending seminars, taking classes or completing relevant independent study projects. Some employers may also require staff to complete continuing education as a condition of employment.
What are the different types of certification?
There are four different types of credentials offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT). The type of credential you pursue will depend on your level of education and experience.
-Registered Radiologic Technician (RRT) is the credential for entry-level technologists. To earn the RRT, candidates must have completed an accredited radiography program and passed the ARRT examination.
-Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) is a credential for sonographers. To earn the RDMS, candidates must have completed an accredited diagnostic medical sonography program and passed the ARRT examination.
-Registered Cardiac Interventional Radiographer (RCIS) is a credential for cardiac interventional radiographers. To earn the RCIS, candidates must have completed an accredited cardiovascular interventional radiography program and passed the ARRT examination.
-Registered Radiation Therapist (RRT) is a credential for radiation therapists. To earn the RRT, candidates must have completed an accredited radiation therapy program and passed the ARRT examination.
How do I become certified?
There are many ways to become certified as a radiology technician. The most common way is to complete an accredited radiology technician program and then pass the certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT). There are also a number of continuing education courses that can be taken to become certified. In addition, many states require radiology technicians to be licensed in order to practice.
Conclusion
There are many ways to get certified as a radiology technician, but the most common is through a two-year associate’s degree program. Although many certification programs are available, the most well-known and respected is the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT). To be eligible for certification through the ARRT, you must have completed an accredited radiology technology program and passed their national examination.
