Archive for the ‘Radiology’ Category
One of the most recent innovations in the world of radiology is the computer radiography system, also known as a CR system. It is basically a unit that is used for digital medical imaging. Further, just like the prices of all radiology equipment and similar computer related devices has dropped recently, so have CR systems, making them all the more affordable for smaller clinics and similar medical setups.
Another reason why CR systems are such a hit with clinics is that their current radiology equipment can be retrofitted with the new equipment. This means that a clinic can start on a relatively smaller budget, and add on equipment as and when it has sufficient funds. In case you are also looking for a medical imaging option that is also portable, there are certain CR systems that cater to that needs as well. These give the medical personnel the provision of capturing images of patients that are unable to visit the clinic, since the device can now be carried to their premises for any kind of checkup. Further, if the CR system is also having internet connectivity via a laptop, one can also send the images from the patient’s home to the clinic for an on-the-spot diagnosis. This practice is not only convenient for the patient, but also saves a lot of valuable time, particularly in case the patient’s condition is critical.
For imaging, this radiology equipment uses phosphor screens and plate readers; the image is first captured on the plate and then converted into the digital format, so that it can be enhanced for a better view. Further, if there is a PACS system installed in the clinic, these images can also be archived as well as set up for recovery in case of any problem in the server.
So as you can see, not only has technology given us numerous means to treat patients, but is now also available at a much affordable rate with better options than ever before.
The radiology school admission requirements vary from school to school, but the typical prerequisites are a high school diploma or GED and a certain background of high school level math and science classes. This usually includes two years of math and two years of science with grades of C or better, although if you didn’t take or pass that many math and science classes during high school you may be able to supplement your transcripts with community college courses. The radiology schools will also evaluate PSAT, SAT and/or ACT scores when determining your eligibility into the program.
Some schools may interview their prospective students as part of their radiology school admission requirements, or they might have applicants fill out lengthy forms providing information about their background and their future goals. A background check may also be required; it really depends on the school you are applying to. Things like race, color, religion or marital status should not be considered as part of your admittance to the school, though.
Getting into a good radiology school program and becoming a radiology technician or assistant can provide a lifetime of rewarding career experiences. Not only do x-ray technicians make excellent salaries, but there is also plenty of opportunities to advance your career and continue your training to make yourself a more viable job candidate for future positions. You will definitely not be locked into one specialty, one location or one salary range for the rest of your career. The first step is being admitted to an accredited radiology school, as getting a good job in this growing field requires proper training and education.
Start learning more about the radiology school admission requirements in your local area today, and begin training for a rewarding career as soon as possible. You will need to finish the associate’s degree or certificate program and pass examinations to become a radiology technician or assistant. Then you will be on your way to an excellent career in the healthcare field that will be in demand for many years to come.
After earning your degree in radiology, it’s now time to seek radiology employment. There are a lot of subdivisions of this medical specialty, so that means that there are a vast potential of options that are open for you to gain employment at the health institution of your choice. We will discuss some of those opportunities in this article, as well as what you can do to better improve your chances of earning a high-quality position.
There are two technical classifications for radiology — diagnostic radiology and therapeutic radiology. Those who get radiology employment in diagnostic radiology generally spend most of their time interpreting images received from administering radiology to help diagnose the disease.
Some specialty options in diagnostic and therapeutic radiology include chest radiology, abdominal and pelvic radiology, body imaging, interventional radiology, vascular radiology, mammography, pediatric radiology, musculoskeletal radiology and nuclear medicine, just to name a few.
As a rule of thumb, radiologist will be trained in all of the important areas of diagnostic radiology. However, to better your chances of employment you can consider sub specialty radiology. For example, musculoskeletal radiology deals mostly with bones, joints and muscular imagery, whereas mammography deals mostly with breast tissue.
When we talk about therapeutic radiology, we mostly refer to radiation therapy. This is a therapy that is often used to treat tumors and cancer. By administering certain amounts of radiation, it can help to stop the reproduction of cancer cells in the body. This is generally referred to as radiotherapy, and a person is now required to be specially certified by the American Board of radiology to perform this medical process.
Naturally, your postgraduate training will influence your employment. Typically, radiologists will have to undergo five years of postgraduate training before their schooling is finished. This is in addition to the four years of medical school that most undergraduate programs require.
After you have completed your postgraduate training, your first position will usually be a residency for four years. During this residency, you will be required to pass various board exams that relate to radiology, such as the technologies of ultrasound, CTs, MRIs, and x-rays and so on.
After this is completed, you will most likely enter into a fellowship, where you will be trained in a sub specialty of radiology, such as some of the ones that we discussed above. Radiology employment is highly competitive, but one in which you will be very well compensated.