
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: THURSDAY, March 22, 1990                   TAG: 9003222543
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A-10   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

NOT TECHNICIANS, BUT TECHNOLOGISTS

THE ARTICLES on medical technology were done with taste and a great deal of research. The March 4 article identified the group of professionals who take X-rays as technicians. Individuals who perform diagnostic radiography are correctly identified as radiologic technologists and are registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. We are also called "R.T.'s" or technologists.

The term "technician" is outdated, from the time when on-the-job training was common for those taking X-rays. Today's technologists are highly trained and skilled in the art and science of diagnostic X-ray. Registered radiologic technologists also work in the fields of radiation therapy, nuclear medicine, CT and MRI.

We are often mistakenly referred to as nurses because we also wear white uniforms; although we are trained in patient care, our expertise lies in radiography.

X-ray equipment is strictly regulated by the state government, but the operators of the equipment are not required to be licensed. The public needs to be aware of the importance of having a registered radiologic technologist perform their X-rays to assure themselves of the best quality care, quality diagnostic films, and minimal radiation exposure.

WENDY P. DEYERLE, R.T.-R.\ ROANOKE

by CNB