Career in Radiography - Essay Example

Radiography involves a technique for viewing an image using electromagnetic radiation. The imaging does not use the standard visible light. An example of a radiography machine is X-rays. The radiography technique is used to display the internal configuration of a body that is not uniformly composed. The images displayed are for opaque objects, non-transparent objects of varying composition and density. For example, the human body (Callaway, p.51).

A radiography career involves caring for different types of patients. With this career, I as a radiographer will be able to communicate and interact with different people of all backgrounds and all ages. Radiographers are compassionate and have empathy about their job. I am passionate about helping the weak and sick as well as giving back to the community. I like learning about technology, anatomy, disease and injuries with interests in Science (Enfinger, p.61).

My daily routine will involve the following duties: evaluate, diagnose and treat patients for various diseases and injuries. The treatment involves the use of ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and X-rays. Involvement in initial patient testing and evaluation, providing evidentiary and diagnostic data for physicians will also be responsible for safely positioning and preparing patients to get the perfect images. I will perform and specialize in magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and mammography as well as making on-call weekend and evening availability. Moreover, I will be required to assist physicians with data images intended to discover issues with internal organs using sound waves and noninvasive waves (Callaway, p.63).

My annual salary remuneration is expected to be $55,200.The salary growth and reviews are expected to be 21% as compared to an average job growth. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics, (BLS) gives similar data on an average annual salary figure.

A survey conducted by the UK shows that approximately 88% of university students agree or strongly agree that their career is far more dependable than their expectations. They believe that the job market is not yet flooded and that many job openings are available for them. The research further showed that over 53% of graduates had got a job by July of the graduating year (Callaway, p.123).

There are many advancement opportunities for a radiography career. Progress will come along with an increased salary package. Radiographers can choose a specialization in the areas of mammography MRI or computerized tomography. Radiographers with specialized training have an added significant career advantage. Some programs of radiography combine radiation therapy and radiography (Enfinger, p.123).

The journey of becoming a radiographer starts from high school with introductory classes in Math and Science. The minimum requirements for a radiographer career are certified programs or an associate degree. Many schools will have radiography programs with courses in anatomy and safe practice in imaging and physiology. Students attain bachelor's degrees in radiography and sonography majors. Many programs involve exposure to radiography through clinical practicum and conducting rotations at various medical institutions (Callaway, p.46).

Specialities in the field will include computer tomography, ultrasound, research, magnetic resonance imaging, mammography and palliative care and counselling. Licensure and certification are essential in the radiography field. All specialization has federally controlled education standards and many states and countries in the world will mandate licensure for radiographers. Experience and testing will vary from one country to another. In the US, certification and licensure will be obtained through various credentialing institutions. For example, Diagnostic Medical Sonographers and Radiological Technologists American Registries. Licensure and Certifications mainly improve career and salary options. Education continuation is typically necessary to maintain both certification and licensure (Enfinger, p.79).