Every November during National Radiologic Technology Week (NRTW), the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) recognizes the vital work of radiologic technologists and their important contributions to patient care. NRTW takes place annually to honor German physicist Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen’s discovery of the x-ray on Nov. 8, 1895. NRTW 2021 will be celebrated on Nov. 7 to 13.
According to the ASRT, the expertise of America’s nearly 350,000 registered radiologic technologists (RTs) has been critical in the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19 where they have served on the front lines of the pandemic. Educated in anatomy, radiologic science, equipment protocols, and radiation protection measures, RTs play an essential role in patient care and safety.
In a study ASRT published earlier this year, researchers determined that slightly more than half of all radiologic technologists work in hospitals. Others work in imaging centers, clinics, physician’s offices, corporate settings, and education. In addition, these professionals also perform radiation therapy treatments on patients being treated for cancer and other diseases.
Beyond x-ray, MR, and CT, the ranks of radiologic technologists also include nuclear medicine imaging professionals, cardiovascular and interventional technologists, radiologist assistants, radiation therapists, mammographers, military RTs, radiology department managers, educational program directors, and other radiologic science professionals.
ASRT is a radiologic science organization representing the medical imaging and radiation therapy community through education, advocacy, research, and innovation.
