The imaging application of X-Rays parallels the development of diagnostic radiology.
Services provided range from a routine chest film to an elaborate study of one of the body
systems that involves tremendously complicated and expensive equipment. The final results
of the examination represent the combined efforts of the radiologist (a physician who
specializes in the use of X-rays and other radiation in diagnosis and treatment) and a
radiologic technologist.
The field of radiology has evolved over the past 100 years into one of the most valuable
diagnostic tools in medicine. The discovery of X-rays in 1895 has had a great impact on
the medical world. This new technology had the potential to see inside the patient. The
first X-rays resulted from the collaborative work of physicists and physicians. With the
expansion of the field of radiology over the years there has been an increasing number of
technologists to assume responsibility for some of the work in the field. This allows the
Radiologist to focus on the interpretation of films and other responsibilities which must
be performed by a physician.
Radiologic technologists may work in departments with the use of modern radiographic and
fluoroscopic tools; general vascular and cardiovascular units; nuclear medicine; emergency
rooms; day surgery facilities; and be responsible for computerized axial tomography (CT
scans) and magnetic resonance imaging, commonly called MRI.
The University of Central Arkansas offers a Bachelors Degree in Radiography. The
prerequisite program is offered through UCA with clinical coursework in radiography
offered through affiliating hospital programs.
Average salaries for radiologic technologist range from $14.00 to $16.00 per hour.
Radiologic technologists may find a variation in starting salaries depending on the
geographical area, size of the community, and availability of registered technologists.
Students are encouraged to contact the following UCA affiliating program for further
information regarding application to a program that offers instruction in Radiography.
Frank Porter, Director
School of Radiography
St. Vincent Health System
Two St. Vincent Circle
Little Rock, AR 72205-5499
Telephone: 501-552-2989
Mrs. Brenda Simmons, Director
School of Radiography
Baptist Schools of Nursing and Allied Health
11900 Colonel Glenn Road
Little Rock, AR 72210-2820
Telephone: 501-202-7740