NATIONAL RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGIST WEEK
November 4-10, 2007
What would you do without them? Radiological Technologists and Radiation Therapists, (R.T.'s) that is! The National Radiologic Technology Week (NRTW) was created and trademarked by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) to highlight the achievements of medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals. Each year, during the week of November 8th Radiologic Technologist professionals celebrate and honor the date in which Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered the x-ray in 1895. During the course of the week, R.T's are promoting their important role they play in providing quality patient care and a safe health care environment with their vast knowledge of radiation safety and imaging expertise!
A Technologist is required to complete a two-year dedicated clinical and didactic certificate or associate's program. This education must be done at a school or program which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Upon completing the program, technologists are expected to complete a detailed National Board Exam for the Association of Registered Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). A technologist is also expected to receive 24 continuing education credits biannually in order to continue national licensure.
A Radiologic Technologist must be proficient in the knowledge of radiographic exposure, anatomy and physiology, patient positioning, radiation physics, and radiobiology, as well as the operation of specialized equipment and the care and management of the patient. The rapid expansion of medical diagnostic imaging has greatly increased the diversity and utility of medical diagnosis. A career in radiologic technology offers vast opportunities for advancement. For example, a certified R.T may further their education and go on to many different modalities including but not limited to: CT, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, Ultrasound, Radiation Therapy, Medical Dosimetry, Angiography et al. They also have Bachelor of Science programs available at many colleges across the country majoring in Radiologic Sciences for those professionals interested in education and teaching in the future.
Here at the University of Virginia Health System, we offer courses in Radiography, Angiography, CT, MRI and Radiation Therapy. The advantage of an education from UVA's Health System allows students the opportunity to work amongst some of the most renowned physicians from across the country. UVA Health System graduates are at the cutting edge of technology!
Please honor our profession this week by acknowledging your fellow Technologists and participating in their many promotional events!
As part of this year's National Radiologic Technology Week, we thank all the hard-working radiologic science professionals for making positive changes in the delivery of patient care. Every day you make a difference in someone's life!
Nicole Winkler
Diagnostic Imaging Technologist &
Part-time Clinical Instructor
UVA Medical Center Dept. of Radiology