What is the difference between a RADIOLOGY Technician and a Technologist ?
Sometimes, these terms are used to describe the same education and licensing. The correct term for a fully licensed x-ray tech is radiologic technologist (RT) or radiographer. A limited license tech is called a technician. A RT can do any examination which involves radiation. This includes fluoroscopy (esophagrams, barium enemas), arthrograms (evaluation of joints), myelograms (evaluation of the spinal canal), HSGs (evaluation of the fallopian tubes for fertility issues), surgical procedures and portable exams. With additional training and licensing, a RT can do CT scans and mammography. A limited permit technician can only do certain X-ray exams, such as chest, spine or extremity x-rays. Most limited techs work in orthopedic doctor offices, as a hospital or imaging center wants a fully licensed technologist who can do any imaging study. The education program is shorter than that of a RT, but they are paid less than a RT. There are many schools in many states where you can get trained
