Practical Radiology Technician

Salt Lake Community College Medical Assistant program includes training as a practical radiology technician.  A practical radiology technician can perform x-ray exams of the extremities, chest and abdomen, (and spine, skull and DXA scans with additional training, but not the special procedures that radiologic technologists can perform.

There are two classes that are taught together. MA 2540 and MA 2550:

MA 2540 (Practical Radiology) is a class that covers what is called “The Core” information.  How an x-ray machine works, processing radiographic films, factors that affect the quality of a  radiograph, patient and personnel protection from excessive amounts of radiation, and patient management. 

MA 2550 (Practical Application Radiology) covers radiographic exams, positioning, evaluation of the radiographs, and anatomy of radiographic exams of the Extremities, Chest and Abdomen.

MA 2990 is an additional class that can be taken in which exams of the spine, and skull are taught.  Also DXA scans for osteoporosis. This however is not a required class.

HOW TO APPLY TO TAKE ARRT TEST FOR LICENCED PRACTICAL RADIOLOGY TECHNICIAN

To be licensed as a practical radiographic technician.  You must pass the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) test for practical (limited) radiology technicians.  There are several sections on the test. The core section is on the information taught in MA 2540. The other testssections are extremities, chest, spine, skull, and Podiatry.  The core section is required plus at least one of the other sections.  you can onlylegally perform exams in the areas in which you have passed a test. The costis the same no matter how many sections you take. $110

The State of Utah also has a test in DXA,  Limited Radiologic Technicianare allowed to perform the DXA exams with further training. 

The application for the test and the license from the DOPL  web page.Or you can get the application from:

Experior

www.experioronline.com

1260 Energy Lane

St. Paul, Minnesota 55108

Phone 801-355-5009

After passing the test one can apply for a license with the DOPL. (about $80). 

For an application e-mail:

http://www.dopl.utah.gov/licensing/forms/022.pdf

After you become licensed you will be require to have 10 hours of continuingeducation every two years.  The license is renewed in May of the Odd years.A review class of 7 hours is offered in April of that year. You can also count 3 hours of CPR as long as the class is approved by the American Heart Association.