Becoming a Radiology Technologist in Washington D.C.
The District of Columbia does not license radiology technologists. If you’re pursuing the field, you should think of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, a national organization, as your credentialing agency.
If you’re registered with the ARRT, you’ll meet the credentialing requirements of most employers. You will also find it relatively easy to get licensing in other states. This can be important as you will sometimes find better job prospects across the border in Maryland or Northern Virginia. These states do have a licensing process.
Radiologic Technologist Resources – Washington DC
What to expect in regards to my education
Your first challenge will be getting into an accredited radiography program. While radiology technology isn’t as competitive as many medical professions, there are typically more applicants than there are slots. Strong performance on the TEAS is sometimes a factor. Foundational coursework is another consideration. Even if you don’t have to complete all prerequisites before application, it can be an advantage to do so.
Your radiology technology program will be a combination of lecture, lab, and clinical practice. You may spend well over 1,000 hours out in the field. Internships can be a chance to make professional connections as well as practice radiography procedures.
There is one radiography program in DC. at Washington Hospital Center. There are also programs in Virginia and Maryland. You’ll find a couple in Takoma Park. Montgomery College is located in Maryland but has clinical practice sites in DC.
Credentialing for Technologists in Washington DC
Before you can be certified, your program director will need to verify that you have completed all required procedures the requisite number of times. You will also need to pass the ARRT ethics screening and the certification exam. When you are in the final days of your program, you can take the first steps toward certification. You will be assigned a testing window after your candidacy has been approved.
You can pursue additional post-primary certifications later. The ARRT offers advanced certification in specialties like MRI, mammography, and CT. Exam eligibility is based on your having completed and documented the requisite procedures. Beginning in 2016, there will be a requirement for 16 hours of structured education. Some technologists are already making the choice to pursue advanced programs that go well beyond this minimum.
When you begin looking for positions, make sure you have current CPR certification. Scout out prospects early. At some facilities, there’s a multi-step application process which includes examination or other forms of assessment.
Career outlook for this field in and around the DC area
There are opportunities for radiologic technologists in the greater DC area. According to current governmental projections, the radiology technology occupation is on a slight decline in the District of Columbia reporting area, but on a rise in the greater metropolitan area. The District of Columbia workforce site puts projected growth for the greater Washington-Arlington-Alexandria area at 18.5% over the 2008 to 2018 decade. Specialty certifications can increase the chances that you will be sought after by premier hospitals.
Radiology Technology Licensing and Professional Organizations in Washington D.C.
- Credentialing Agency: American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
Click Here to visit their website.
- Professional Organization: District of Columbia Society of Radiologic Technologists (no website)
- Professional Organization: American Society of Radiologic Technologists
Click Here to visit the website