A Career in Radiography

A Career in Radiography is undoubtedly at the heart of modern medicine. There are two sorts of radiographers; Diagnostic and Therapeutic. To qualify for a career as a radiographer you need a BSc degree in either Diagnostic or Therapeutic radiography.

You should consider a career in Radiography because:

You will be in a profession that helps people

• You will be able to work in a wide range of specialisms
• You can work at the cutting edge of medicine
• Most countries accept UK trained radiographers
• The Career progression opportunities; the chance to progress to consultant practitioner level
• A radiography degree is a passport to a job; there is a worldwide shortage of radiographers

Radiographers require the following skills:

• An ability to communicate with other members of the team and with patients who are often frightened and uncertain
• An ability to be supportive and caring
• An interest in sciences such as biology, anatomy and physiology and physics
• An interest in using leading edge technology to assess and treat patients
• Adaptability; radiography is constantly changing
• Decision making skills; radiographers need to make decisions quickly and independently

Diagnostic Radiography

If you have an accident and go to hospital the chances are that you will see a diagnostic radiographer. They produce images and play a key role in the diagnosis of disease, and are responsible for the examination of patients using radiation, ultrasound or magnetic fields. In addition radiographers are involved in interventional procedures such as the removal of kidney stones and the insertion of stents to widen blood vessels. Due to the modernisation in imaging technology such as ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and other specialised imaging techniques the knowledge and skills of radiographers have expanded way beyond the ’simple’ X-ray examinations

Therapeutic Radiography

Therapeutic Radiographers treat patients, mostly those with cancer, using ionizing radiation. They are responsible for the accurate planning and delivery of a prescribed dose of radiation to specific areas of the body and wider aspects of oncology. Additionally, they are an important part in helping patients to cope with the daily physical and psychological problems associated with radiotherapy treatment, including information, support and counselling.

For more information on training and careers in Radiography log onto:

The Society of Radiographers
www.sor.org

Radiography Careers
www.radiographycareers.co.uk

NHS Careers
www.nhscareers.nhs.uk
www.nhs.careers.uk
www.ucas.com

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