The median pay for radiologic technologists in the United States is approximately $61,240 per year. Techs in specialties such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) make on the average $71,670.
The job outlook for radiologic technologists proves to be good with a projected growth of nine percent through 2028. These numbers anticipate increased medical care needs as the large Baby Boomer population continues to age.
Becoming a radiologic technologist and maintaining your certifications requires a significant investment in education. This includes x-ray continuing education (CE).
Keeping up on these requirements can feel overwhelming. Especially when you work full-time and have a family. Fortunately, you’ve got plenty of options when it comes to affordable online courses.
Read on to learn more about continuing education in radiology and how to find the right program for you.
Diagnostic Imaging Techniques
Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging procedures on patients. These can include services such as x-ray examinations, computer tomography (CT) scans, and MRIs.
Because of the nature of their work, radiologic technologists must have formal training in:
- Examination techniques
- Patient positioning
- Anatomy
- Radiation safety
- Equipment protocols
- Basic patient care
Some radiologic technologists also choose to specialize in sonography, mammography, or cardiovascular-interventional radiography.
Technologists work closely with physicians who interpret the radiologic images captured by technologists. These interpretations, in turn, are used to rule out injury or disease and diagnose.
To maintain their certifications, radiologic technologists need to keep their credentials up-to-date. Continuing education courses allow them to do this. No matter their specialty.
Learn More About X-Ray Continuing Education
What are x-ray continuing education requirements? And how do they work?
Every two years, radiologic technologists must earn 24 credits of continuing education.
When does the two-year period begin? Known as the biennium, it starts on the first day of your birth month. Two years later, it expires on the last day of the same month.
An approved continuing education (CE) credit requires 50 to 60 minutes of instruction. It should focus on the application of x-ray technology to the human body.
This may sound like a narrow topic area. But accredited studies include x-ray management and x-ray pathology. Some may also take courses in x-ray administration, x-ray diagnosis, and more.
What to Know Before Choosing X-Ray Continuing Education Courses
Credits and approvals for x-ray CE courses are provided by organizations (RCEEMs) such as:
- The American Society of Radiologic Technologists® (ASRT®)
- The Association for Medical Imaging Management® (AHRA®)
You have a wide range of CE courses to choose from. But make sure they’re either Category A or Category A+. These categories denote courses approved and accredited by an RCEEM for ARRT®.
Besides ensuring the x-ray CE courses you take are fully accredited, double-check that the study area is acceptable. Before registering for courses, verify that any course you’re considering meets all of your CE requirements. Fortunately, you don’t have to go it alone.
We’re here to help. Contact us today to discuss the best courses for your current needs.
X-Ray CE Courses and Combos
How many credits of continuing education do you need? And how does CE work?
You’ll receive a renewal form in the mail. Use this form to document the CE credits that you’ve earned. You can also document your CEs online.
Besides taking these courses, you also need to maintain evidence of continuing education course completion for four years after the date you earned the credits.
Now that you have a better understanding of how radiologic continuing education works let’s explore the options available to you for completing these requirements.
By far, the easiest way to stay up on all of your continuing education requirements is through online education via e-courses. Not only e-courses prove to be both affordable and flexible, but you can do the learning around your daily schedule. Better still, courses can be completed from the comfort of your own home. That includes taking your x-ray continuing education post-tests online.
When you work with the right continuing education company, online testing is provided at no extra charge.
You can also get courses bundled into combos. This allows you to fulfill specific requirements, such as x-ray continuing education in radiation protection or fluoroscopy safety, while saving money.
Find out more about online CE course bundles including California combo CE courses that are ASRT® or AHRA® approved.
Benefits Associated with X-Ray Continuing Education
Besides keeping your certifications and credentials current, x-ray continuing education comes with many benefits.
In our fast-paced world, technology is advancing at a rapid pace. X-ray continuing education lets you learn about new technologies and trends in the industry.
It also keeps your job skills sharp and makes you more marketable when you’re looking for a new position. X-ray continuing education courses also increase the chances for a promotion or raise.
But more importantly, these courses are designed to help you improve patient interaction and reduce your risks of making mistakes. It’s a win-win for you, your patients, and the facility where you work.
Take Your Skills to the Next Level
Whether you’re at the beginning of a new biennium or coming to the close of one, don’t procrastinate when it comes to x-ray continuing education. It’s never too soon to raise the bar at work and improve your patients’ experience.
What’s more, classes are easily completed at home, and you can fit them into your schedule. So, what are you waiting for? Check out our comprehensive list of Category A and Category A+ x-ray CE courses today, and then get ready to learn.
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