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Many people going into school are preparing to graduate with a degree in radiology. But what kinds of career does that lead to? What are different options available for anyone going into the field of radiology? There are, indeed, many options in this area of the medical field, and they all require different responsibilities and areas of knowledge and expertise. Here we list several different jobs in this field, and the descriptions and responsibilities for each.
Radiographers
There are 2 different kinds of radiographers: diagnostic and therapeutic. A diagnostic radiographer usually works in the radiology or imaging part of the hospital, though sometimes in clinics, and is responsible for working with pieces of equipment such as x-rays, fluoroscopy, ultrasound and MRI. They must be able to read and diagnose symptoms based off of the results. A therapeutic radiographer, on the other hand, works primarily on a team of nurses and doctors that are treating cancer patients. This job requires them to perform the radiation treatments on the patients, being careful to destroy the cancer but avoiding the rest of the body.
Sonographers
Also known as ultrasonography, sonography revolves around the technology that uses sound waves to produce visuals of the inside of the body. Most often these machines are used on the abdomen, female reproductive system, breasts and heart, among other body parts. These radiation-free electronics are operated by a sonographer, a highly trained professional who specializes in diagnosing patients for ailments such as heart disease, heart attacks and vascular disease. Sonographers work closely with their patients, sometimes performing invasive processes, and need to maintain a compassionate and caring manner towards the patients, who are sometimes critically ill.
Magnetic Resonance Technologists
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Technologists use MRI machines and technology. The technologists work with preparing the patients for the MRI process, operating the machine, understanding the results and then communicating the results to the doctor or the patient. MRIs are used to examine the brain, spine, abdomen, joints, heart, and more. These professionals are usually based in hospitals or diagnostic imaging centers, and have to be able to follow the instructions of the over-physician, as well as being physically capable of handling the machine and helping move patients who are ready to undergo the process.
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
A Nuclear Medicine technologist works under an authorized physician to administer radionuclides to a patient as a nuclear medicine procedure. They spend much of their time preparing medicinal radiopharmaceuticals and measuring out doses for radiologists to give to their patients. They also execute blood volume and fat absorption studies after the medical procedures, and subject clients to radiation treatments. These technologists work often with computer processing, as well as analyzing biological specimens in a laboratory. A nuclear medicine technologist will work closely with the patient as well, usually in a community hospital or a public health institution.
There are many different specialties and options for those interesting in pursuing radiology. All specialties requires a determination to discover physical issues in a patient and the ability to effectively work in an area of expertise to get each person the best treatment they need to heal and recover.
