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Mammography Technician |
Career OverviewThe early detection of breast cancer is vital to improving a patient’s chances of surviving the disease. Both women and men are encouraged to perform self-exams to determine if there are any abnormal lumps or painful areas in or surrounding their breasts.
Some lumps and tumors are, however, two small to detect with the human hand, so individuals over the age of about twenty-one are advised and in some cases ordered, to have mammograms on at least an annual basis.
Mammograms are performed by mammogram technicians and there are two types of exams. Mammography screenings are routine tests; these are the tests that women who have no signs of cancer are advised to have annually. Diagnostic mammograms are undertake at a physician’s request when there is some reason to suspect an abnormality in the breast tissue.
Mammography technicians use low-level radiation to take x-rays of breast tissue for the purpose of locating or ruling out the possible presence of tumors.
Part of the mammography technicians job is to explain the x-ray procedure to the patient and answer any questions that they may have. They are also responsible for helping patients to relax and position themselves correctly. The technician ensures that all patients, staff, and visitors are protected from the radiation that will be used in the exam.
Once the exam is complete, the mammography technician may also perform initial checks to make sure that the exam has been performed correctly and a viable x-ray image has been obtained. As necessary, the mammography technician also performs routine checks and minor maintenance repairs on equipment to promote the viability of the work.
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Career RequirementsCandidates must complete two to three years of college level study in radiography to qualify to become a mammography technician. Registration with a professional society is also advisable. Most programs require high school diplomas or GEDs and prefer candidates with a strong background in science including biology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry, and mathematics.
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Job OutlookThe need for mammography technicians can only be expected to grow as the emphasis upon the importance of the early detection of breast cancer increases and new research offers greater insight of risks and treatment possibilities for the disease.
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Career TrackMammography technicians work in hospitals, clinics, mobile mammography units, and screening centers. They work in offices and screening rooms, for the most part keeping regular hours, although the are sometimes required to set aside evenings and weekends.
Advancement to supervisory or instructor positions is possible with appropriate experience. Mammography technicians can also branch out into other forms of radiation therapy with additional education; or they can go into public health nursing to teach people about the importance of early breast cancer detection.
They may also become counselors and advocates for breast cancer suffers, working to promote any one of a number of fundraising campaigns for research and support groups for suffers, survivors, and affected families.
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CompensationStandard compensation for licensed social workers ranges between $41,000 and $60,000 per year depending upon experience. Additional benefits may include paid vacations, medical and dental insurance, and disability insurance.
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