Imaging Technology

Modern technology gives doctors many options for diagnosing a patient’s condition. Some techniques are invasive, others exploratory, and others are minimally or non‑invasive. Diagnostic Imaging (DI) refers to a group of methods that utilize non‑invasive techniques to identify and monitor certain diseases. DI is the field of medicine that uses non‑invasive imaging scans to diagnose a patient. The tests and equipment used sometimes involve low radiation doses to create highly detailed images of an area.

• Position imaging equipment and adjust controls to set exposure time and distance, according to specification of examination.
• Position patient on examining table and set up and adjust equipment to obtain optimum view of specific body area as requested by physician.
• Monitor patients’ conditions and reactions, reporting abnormal signs to physician.
• Review and evaluate developed x‑rays, video tape, or computer‑generated information to determine if images are satisfactory for diagnostic purposes.
• Determine patients’ x‑ray needs by reading requests or instructions from physicians.
• Operate or oversee operation of radiologic or magnetic imaging equipment to produce images of the body for diagnostic purposes.
• Operate digital picture archiving communications systems.
• Perform procedures, such as linear tomography, mammography, sonograms, joint and cyst aspirations, routine contrast studies, routine fluoroscopy, or examinations of the head, trunk, or extremities under supervision of physician.
• Adhere to radiation safety protocols to protect themselves and patients.

• High School Diploma or GED
• Associate’s Degree (2 years)
• Requirements to apply to programs may include:
  • General education classes
  • Science prerequisites: ex. Anatomy, Physiology
• Complete an accredited Radiologic Technology program
• Depending on school: full time daytime program, Mon‑Fri (8am‑5pm)
• For national accreditation of radiologic technology, the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
• California Radiologic Health Branch (RHB) of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH)

Why accreditation is important: An accredited school has been reviewed by an industry organization to ensure that quality standards are met and maintained, providing some assurance of receiving a quality education. Some employers, licensing boards, and graduate schools will only accept credentials earned at an accredited school. Attending an accredited school will often increase your opportunities in the long run, as employers usually prefer to hire people who have graduated from accredited programs.

Attending a non‑accredited program can affect future education, licensure and certifications.

• California Radiologic Health Branch (RHB) of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
• American Registry of Radiologic Technology (AART)