Radiographer

Introduction

Radiographers use controlled amounts of radiation, with special equipment, to either identify a problem in the body or to treat a problem.

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Work Activities

Radiographers use controlled amounts of radiation, either for diagnosis or treatment of patients. Those involved in diagnosis are called diagnostic radiographers; those who treat people are called therapeutic radiographers.

Radiographers calculate the amount of radiation that can be given safely to each patient. They use a variety of complex equipment to deliver the radiation to the correct part of the patient's body.

For some work radiographers wear clothing which protects against radiation and carry equipment which measures radiation.

Much of the equipment used by radiographers is computerised. For example, diagnostic radiographers use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners; they produce detailed images (almost like photographs) for precision diagnosis of problems.

Therapeutic radiographers use computed tomography (CT) scanners; they pinpoint the location and size of tumours, so that the dosage of radiation needed to destroy them without harming the patient, can be calculated.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

You need to be able to work as part of a team and to relate well to other professionals, such as doctors. You must get on well with patients of all ages and backgrounds. A caring and supportive attitude is important.

You should be calm, methodical, accurate and attentive to detail. An interest and ability in science are important.

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Pay and Opportunities

National Health Service (NHS) employees are paid on a rising scale within defined pay bands, according to their skills and responsibilities.

In the NHS, radiographers start on Band 5 of Agenda for Change. From April 2006 this has been £19,166 - £24,803 a year. Specialist radiographers on Band 6 earn £22,886 - £31,004 a year. Those with management responsibilities, on Band 7, can earn up to £36,416 a year.

At the highest levels, radiographer consultants can earn up to £60,880, depending on responsibilities.

Radiographers usually work a basic 35-36.5 hours per week. For diagnostic radiographers, this often includes shifts on a rota basis, including evenings and weekends.

The NHS employs most radiographers. However, there is a growing demand for radiographers within the private sector. The armed forces employ some radiographers, and there are a few opportunities to work in industry, and in other countries.

There is currently a national shortage of radiographers, with not enough graduates to fill the available posts.

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Adult Opportunities

It is now illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

If you don't have the qualifications that are usually needed to enter a degree in therapeutic or diagnostic radiography, you might be able to start one after completing a college or university Access course, eg, Access to Science. You don't usually need any formal qualifications to start an Access course, but you should check individual course details.

Students who enter one of the Allied Health Professions will receive free tuition fees, an income assessed Scottish Executive Health Department bursary and a student loan.

• 23% of radiographers work part-time.
• 10% have flexible hours.
• 7% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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