How to Become a Rad Tech
Radiation therapy technologists, also known as rad techs, are healthcare professionals who use ionizing radiation to treat cancer and other diseases. They work under the direction of a radiation oncologist to deliver precise doses of radiation to targeted areas of the body while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
If you're interested in a career as a rad tech, here are the steps you need to take:
1. Get a Bachelor's Degree
The first step to becoming a rad tech is to earn a bachelor's degree in radiation therapy or a related field, such as medical imaging or physics. During your undergraduate studies, you'll take courses in anatomy, physics, and radiation therapy.
2. Complete an Accredited Radiation Therapy Program
After earning your bachelor's degree, you must complete an accredited radiation therapy program. These programs are typically two years long and include both didactic and clinical training. During your clinical training, you'll work under the supervision of a registered rad tech and learn how to operate radiation therapy equipment and deliver radiation treatments to patients.
3. Pass the ARRT Exam
Once you've completed an accredited radiation therapy program, you must pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam. The ARRT exam is a comprehensive test of your knowledge of radiation therapy and clinical skills.
4. Get Licensed
In most states, rad techs must be licensed by the state board of health or a similar agency. To obtain a license, you must meet the minimum education and experience requirements and pass a state licensing exam.
5. Continue Your Education
To maintain your license, you must complete continuing education requirements every two years. These requirements vary from state to state, but typically include completing courses in radiation therapy, medical imaging, and patient care.
6. Advance Your Career
With experience, rad techs can advance their careers by becoming certified in specialized areas of radiation therapy, such as stereotactic radiosurgery or brachytherapy. They may also move into management positions or become educators.
Conclusion
A career as a rad tech can be rewarding and challenging. Rad techs play a vital role in the healthcare team and help patients fight cancer and other diseases. If you're interested in a career in healthcare and have a strong interest in science and technology, then becoming a rad tech may be the right choice for you.