What they do
Medical diagnostic radiographers operate x-ray and other imaging equipment to assist in the diagnosis and subsequent management of disease or injury.
Medical diagnostic radiographers receive referrals from medical practitioners and carryout appropriate examinations on patients. Results are interpreted and returned to medical practitioners for patient follow-up.
There are approximately 1000 medical diagnostic radiographers in Western Australia with numbers in both metropolitan and major regional areas.
Working conditions
Most medical diagnostic radiographers are employed in public and private hospitals. Areas of work include the radiology department, patients' besides (mobile x-ray) or the operating theatre.
Medical diagnostic radiographers work as part of a team with other health professionals including medical and nursing staff. Work hours may include weekend or shift work as well as some on-call responsibilities.
Tools and technologies
In addition to x-ray equipment, medical diagnostic radiographers operate special equipment including:
- fluoroscopy equipment - shows a moving image of the part being examined;
- angiography equipment - images blood vessels; and
- computed tomography (CT) equipment - provides cross-sectional images of the body
Advances in technology ensure new and expanding techniques are regularly seen in this field.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become a medical diagnostic radiographer, you need to study a degree in medical radiation science, majoring in medical imaging.
Curtin University offers a four-year Bachelor of Science (Medical Radiation Science). This is the only undergraduate degree in medical radiation science available in Western Australia. Contact the university for more information.
Required registration and licensing
To work as a medical diagnostic radiographer in Western Australia, you will need to obtain registration from the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia. You will also need to obtain a licence to operate radiation equipment from the Radiological Council.