Key Points

• What is a Radiology Technician? A Radiology Technician, or Radiologic Technologist, is a licensed medical professional who uses imaging equipment like X-ray and CT scanners to create diagnostic images for physicians.
• How to become a Radiology Technician in Michigan? To work as a Radiologic Technologist in Michigan, you must graduate from an accredited associate's degree program, pass the national ARRT certification exam, and obtain a state license from LARA.
• Length of training for a Radiology Technician: An associate's degree program in radiologic technology typically takes 24 months to complete.
• Average Radiology Technician salary in Michigan: The median annual salary for a Radiologic Technologist in Michigan is approximately $68,500.
• Number of employment of Radiology Technicians in Michigan: As of May 2024, there were approximately 8,800 Radiologic Technologists employed in Michigan.

What is a Radiology Technician?

Radiology technicians operate various imaging equipment, such as X-ray machines, CT scanners, and MRI machines, to help diagnose and treat patients. Additionally, they are responsible for patient care and ensuring the accuracy of the images produced. They play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by assisting radiologists in capturing and interpreting medical images.

What does a Radiology Technician do?

• Operating imaging equipment to capture high-quality medical images

• Positioning patients correctly to obtain accurate images

• Monitoring patients during procedures and addressing any concerns

• Maintaining and calibrating imaging equipment

• Collaborating with radiologists to interpret images and provide accurate diagnostic information

• Ensuring patient safety by following proper radiation safety protocols

Where Do Radiology Technicians Work?

Radiology technicians can work in various healthcare settings, including:

1. Hospitals: They form a vital part of the radiology department in hospitals, assisting in diagnosing and treating patients.

2. Diagnostic Imaging Centers: These centers specialize in various imaging techniques, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs.

3. Physician Offices: Some physicians have their own imaging equipment, and radiology technicians are employed to operate and maintain them.

4. Outpatient Clinics: These clinics offer imaging services to patients who do not require hospitalization.

Requirements to Become a Radiology Technician in Michigan

Michigan law mandates specific requirements for all practicing Radiologic Technologists to ensure high standards of patient care. To work in the state, you must meet the following criteria:

• Education: You must have a high school diploma or GED to enter a training program.
• Accredited Degree: You must graduate from a radiologic technology program, typically an associate's degree, that is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
• National Certification: You must pass the certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
• State Licensure: You must hold a valid, active license issued by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).

How to Become a Radiology Technician in Michigan?

To become a Radiology Technician in Michigan, one must first complete an accredited educational program, typically an associate's degree, to gain the necessary knowledge and skills. Next, individuals must obtain certification by passing the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam. Once certified, they can then search for job opportunities to start earning a competitive salary in the field.

Here's a more detailed process for becoming a radiology technician in Michigan:

1. Meet the Foundational Requirements

Before enrolling in a program, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong grades in science (biology, anatomy) and math are highly recommended. You will also need to pass a background check and drug screening to be eligible for the required clinical training in hospitals and clinics.

2. Enroll in a JRCERT-Accredited Program

Your most important step is to enroll in an associate's degree program in radiologic technology that is accredited by the JRCERT. This accreditation is mandatory for both national certification and state licensure in Michigan. These two-year programs provide a deep dive into anatomy, patient positioning, imaging principles, and radiation safety, along with extensive hands-on clinical experience.

3. Earn Your National Certification

After graduating, you must earn your national credentials. This is the primary benchmark of your professional competence and a prerequisite for obtaining your state license.

How to Get a Radiology Technician Certification in Michigan?

To earn the nationally recognized R.T.(R)(ARRT) credential, you must:

• Graduate from your JRCERT-accredited program.

• Apply for and pass the ARRT certification exam. The exam is a comprehensive test of the knowledge and skills you learned in your program.

4. Apply for Your Michigan License and for Jobs

With your ARRT certification secured, you must get your state license before you can legally work. Once licensed, you can begin your job search. A great resource to explore career paths is MyNextMove.org.

How to Get a Radiology Technician Job in Michigan?

First, apply for your license through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), submitting proof of your degree and ARRT certification. While your license is processing, polish your resume, highlighting your ARRT credentials and clinical experience. Search for positions at major Michigan health systems like Corewell Health, Henry Ford Health, Michigan Medicine, and Trinity Health, as well as at outpatient imaging centers across the state.