Becoming an army X-ray technician can be a rewarding career for those who are passionate about healthcare and want to serve their country. X-ray technicians, also known as radiologic technologists, play a crucial role in the medical field by using imaging technology to help diagnose and treat patients. In the army, X-ray technicians work in military hospitals and clinics, providing medical imaging services to soldiers and their families. Here are five ways to become an army X-ray technician:
Meet the Basic Requirements
To become an army X-ray technician, you must meet the basic requirements set by the US Army. These requirements include being a US citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 35, and having a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also score well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, which measures your aptitude in various subjects.
Education and Training
To become an X-ray technician, you need to complete a training program in radiologic technology. The US Army offers a training program in radiologic technology at the Army Medical Department Center and School in Fort Sam Houston, Texas. The program is 24 months long and includes both classroom and clinical training.
Alternatively, you can complete a civilian training program in radiologic technology and then enlist in the army. Many community colleges and universities offer associate's degree programs in radiologic technology that are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
Get Certified
To become a certified X-ray technician, you need to pass the certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The ARRT certification is recognized throughout the US and is required for many states.
To be eligible for the ARRT certification exam, you need to graduate from a JRCERT-accredited training program and have a certain amount of clinical experience. The ARRT certification exam tests your knowledge and skills in radiologic technology, including patient assessment, imaging procedures, and radiation safety.
Gain Experience
To become an army X-ray technician, you need to gain experience in radiologic technology. You can gain experience by working in a civilian hospital or clinic, or by volunteering at a medical facility.
The US Army also offers internships and fellowships in radiologic technology that can provide you with valuable experience and training. These programs are competitive, but they can be a great way to get your foot in the door and start your career as an army X-ray technician.
Enlist in the Army
To become an army X-ray technician, you need to enlist in the US Army. You can enlist by visiting a local recruiting office or by applying online. You will need to meet the basic requirements, including being a US citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 35, and having a high school diploma or equivalent.
Once you enlist, you will attend Basic Combat Training (BCT) and then attend the Army Medical Department Center and School in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, for training in radiologic technology.
Specialize in a Modality
As an army X-ray technician, you can specialize in a particular modality, such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or mammography. Specializing in a modality can increase your job prospects and provide you with more opportunities for advancement.
The US Army offers specialized training programs in various modalities, including CT, MRI, and mammography. These programs are competitive, but they can provide you with the training and experience you need to specialize in a particular modality.
Advancement Opportunities
As an army X-ray technician, you have many opportunities for advancement. You can advance to a higher rank, specialize in a particular modality, or take on a leadership role.
The US Army offers many opportunities for professional development, including training programs, certifications, and fellowships. You can also attend college or university while serving in the army, which can provide you with more opportunities for advancement.
Conclusion
Becoming an army X-ray technician requires education, training, and experience. By following these five steps, you can become a certified X-ray technician and start your career in the US Army. Remember to always follow your passion and never stop learning, and you will have a successful and rewarding career as an army X-ray technician.
What is the role of an army X-ray technician?
+An army X-ray technician is responsible for using imaging technology to help diagnose and treat patients in military hospitals and clinics.
What are the requirements to become an army X-ray technician?
+To become an army X-ray technician, you must meet the basic requirements, including being a US citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 35, and having a high school diploma or equivalent.
How long does it take to become an army X-ray technician?
+It typically takes 24 months to complete the training program in radiologic technology offered by the US Army.