Also known as X-ray technicians, the radiation technologist uses high-tech computerized equipment to produce radiographs or x-rays that help search for abnormalities in the patients body which help physicians and dentist diagnose and treat their patients.
Duties of a Radiation Technologist:
- You can specialize in difference areas as a technician, like MRI and Ultrasound
- You use the most modern digital imaging equipment to develop the x-rays
- You also conduct mammograms, cat scans and angiograms
Work Requirements:
Most x-ray technicians work regular full-time hours, which could include evenings, weekends and on call. An x-ray technician is not a very physically demanding job, but you do run the risk of exposure to radiation. They work in offices and screening rooms and deal with patients directly whom have painful medical conditions.
Types of Work Environments:
- Dentist Office
- Hospitals
- Health Clinics
- Medical Laboratories
- Cancer Treatment Centres
Personality Requirements:
- To be a gentle and sensitive person
- Have a technical ability
- Strong attention to detail
- Strong organizations skills
Education: 3 years post-secondary
College Diploma in Medical Radiological Technology.
Certification
- National: Pass exam for Canadian Society of Medical Radiological Science
- Ontario: Licensing by the College of Radiological Technologists of Ontario
Courses taken during high school which will assist you in a career as a Radiation Technologist:
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Math
- Physics
- Technology
Job placement – after 3 years of post-secondary education your chances of finding a job are considered – Very Good
Canada’s aging population requires an increasing supply of medical services. The continual development of new tests and machines will create a demand for the position.
Wages:
Average annual income: $45,000
Links:
Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists
http://www.camrt.ca
Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists
http://www.cctt.ca
Canadian Technology Human Resources Board
http://www.cthrb.ca
College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario
http://www.cmlto.com
College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario
http://www.cmrto.org
Ontario Society of Medical Technologists
http://www.osmt.org
Job Futures: Medical Radiation Technologists
http://jobfutures.ca/noc/3215p1.shtml
