Radiologic technologists are the healthcare professionals who perform diagnostic imaging procedures, such as X-ray examinations, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and computed tomography (CT) scans. Most technologists work in hospitals, though some work in doctors' offices and private clinics.
Radiologic technologists typically do the following:
Adjust and maintain imaging equipment
Precisely follow orders from physicians on what areas of the body to image
Prepare patients for procedures, including taking a medical history, answering questions about the procedure and putting patients at ease
Protect the patient by shielding exposed areas that do not need to be imaged
Position the patient and the equipment in the location needed to get the correct image
Operate the computerized equipment to take the images
Work with radiologists reading the images to determine whether other images need to be taken
Keep detailed patient records
Education needed
Associate's Degree, License, Certification
UCLA Health starting salary
$76,232.88/year or $36.51/hour
Local schools offering this program
Charles Drew University, LA City College, Loma Linda University
Professional organizations
Local: California Society of Radiologic Technologists
