The Difference between Radiology Technicians and Radiology Technologists Explained

Radiology technicians and technologists are very similar in many ways, but there are some subtle differences between the two professions that necessitate a differentiation in name. This article will highlight the differences and similarities in greater detail.

Radiology Technicians
Radiology technicians, also known as radiographers, are responsible for producing x-ray images of specific areas of patients’ bodies for diagnostic purposes. The images are captured on film for doctors to use in diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and injuries. Technicians are also responsible for meeting with patients and explaining the various procedures to them, including all the proper precautions, and preparing them for the imaging process. The average annual salary for radiology technicians is just under $45,000.

Radiology Technologists
Radiologic technologists are responsible for producing slightly more complex images. Rather than only producing x-rays, technologists are also prepared to use computed tomography scans, fluoroscopy, magnetic resonance imaging and mammography. These procedures require more complex actions and precautions, which the technologist must explain to the patient. Such procedures often involve additional steps, as well, such as administering a special solution in the case of fluoroscopy. Radiologic technologists often specialize in one area, such CT scans or MRIs. The median annual salary for radiologic technologist is nearly $49,000 in the United States right now — a few thousand dollars more per year than the average salary of radiology technicians.

Similarities in Education, Training and More
Education options for both technicians and technologists include certificate, associate’s degree and bachelor’s degree programs, which range from 21 months to four or more years. Most employers prefer a two-year associate’s degree for both positions. Some may prefer bachelor’s degrees for managerial positions or even some entry-level positions as radiology technologists.

Each of these radiology professionals is responsible for a slightly different type of imaging exam; the technologist’s being somewhat more complex. On a daily basis, however, radiology technologists and technicians may perform many of the same job duties, such as keeping records of patients’ medical histories, maintaining equipment, ordering new parts and providing care and support to patients. Both receive specialized training in order to perform diagnostic imaging procedures. Both of these allied healthcare professionals work under the direction of a medical doctor, and both have the option of working in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics and physician’s offices, although they are found primarily in hospitals and separate diagnostic imaging centers.

About the Author

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Author (Tisamit). Submitted on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 Time: 6:51 AM

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