What does a Mammography Technologist do?

A mammography technologist is a health professional who specializes in performing and interpreting mammograms. Mammograms are X-rays of the breast that can be used to detect breast cancer. Mammography technologists typically work in hospitals, clinics, or private medical offices. They may also work in mobile units that provide mammogram services to rural areas or underserved populations.

Mammography Technologist job duties include:

• Position patients for mammography exams
• Operate x-ray equipment to produce images of the breast
• Adjust x-ray equipment to obtain proper exposure of the breast tissue
• Develop film or operate a computer to produce digital images of the breast
• Evaluate developed film for technical quality and make necessary adjustments
• Explain procedures to patients and answer any questions they have
• Maintain patient records
• Perform quality control procedures on x-ray equipment
• Keep abreast of new developments in mammography technology

Mammography Technologist Job Requirements

A Mammography Technologist is a health care professional who specializes in performing and interpreting mammograms. They must have completed an accredited radiologic technology program and obtained certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Many states also require licensure. Mammography technologists typically have several years of experience working in a hospital or diagnostic imaging center.

Mammography Technologist Skills

• Patient communication
• Anatomy and physiology
• Positron emission tomography
• Mammography
• Radiology
• Oncology
• Breast cancer
• Ultrasound
• Computed tomography
• Magnetic resonance imaging
• Radiographic positioning

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How to become a Mammography Technologist

A mammography technologist is a health care professional who specializes in performing and interpreting mammograms. Mammography technologists must be licensed by the state in which they practice. In order to become a licensed mammography technologist, one must complete an accredited training program and pass a national certification exam.

Mammography technologists typically complete a two-year associate’s degree program in radiologic technology. Some technologists may choose to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program in radiologic technology. After completing an accredited training program, technologists must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Once certified, technologists must maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every two years.

Mammography technologists work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They typically work Monday through Friday during regular business hours. Some technologists may be required to work evenings or weekends to accommodate patients’ schedules.

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