Indiana Society of Radiologic Technologists

A radiologic technologist who is qualified to perform x-ray procedures is known as a radiographer. Radiographers provide service to their patients by producing high quality x-ray images of the patient's anatomy.  X-rays, which originate in the x-ray machine, pass through the patient before they interact with the x-ray film or other recording media, such as a fluoroscope, which can be used to show a televised x-ray image. After processing, the x-ray image is known as a radiograph. The radiograph contains valuable information for the physician about a patient's condition. X-ray images can help the physician diagnose such conditions as broken bones, benign or cancerous tumors, ulcers, and atherosclerosis (blockages in the blood vessels).

Advances in the field of radiography now routinely include the use of computers to store and enhance the x-ray image. These advances include regular x-rays as well as computed tomography (CT), digital subtraction angiography (DSA), and magnetic resonance (MR). Computed tomography allows the physician to see cross-sections of the patient's anatomy in greater detail than on a typical x-ray image. In digital subtraction angiography, the computer enhances the physician's ability to see the patient's blood vessels. Magnetic resonance uses a magnetic field to produce cross-sectional computer images. This equipment is generally operated by experienced radiographers who have completed formal education or who have been provided additional education from their employers.

Job Opportunities

Job opportunities for radiographers are available in a wide variety of settings. Positions can be found in hospitals, clinics, imaging centers, physician's offices and emergency centers. In addition, jobs in industry, research, sales, civil service, and public health are also possible. Radiographers are employed in every type of community and in practically any location you would like to live. Salaries vary depending on the job setting and geographic location. In Indiana, average salaries for new graduates range from $17.00 to $22.00 per hour or $35,360 to $45,760 annually.