How do I choose between diagnostic and therapeutic radiography as a career?
There are many differences between these apparently similar careers. Therapeutic radiography is classed as an out-patient service, where patients are treated between 9am and 5pm most of the time, although some units have a shift system to extend the treatment options. In contrast, diagnostic radiographers will usually be required to work an on-call service for emergencies outside these hours on a rota basis. Radiotherapy services tend to be concentrated in specialist centres which are usually in cities, i.e., there are 5 radiotherapy centres in Scotland. Most hospitals in the UK, however, have a radiology department, with the more specialised facilities in larger hospitals. The therapeutic radiographer is closely involved with individual patient care for the length of their treatment, which may be delivered daily for several weeks. Conversely, the diagnostic radiographer may image several patients with a variety of problems within an hour. The nature and level of patient contact is ver
