News

Recognizing the importance of radiologic technology

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Hannah Fuentes
  • 55th Medical Support Squadron

Medical professionals across the U.S. will recognize the contribution of radiation technologists during the National Radiologic Technology week Nov. 5 – 11.

 

This celebration takes place each year during the week of Nov. 8 to commemorate the discovery of the x-ray by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen on Nov. 8, 1895, and calls attention to the important role that medical imaging and radiation therapy plays in patient care and health safety.

 

At the Ehrling Bergquist Clinic here, there is a diverse staff comprised of 12 active duty members, three radiologists, six contractors and four Air Force civilians on the imaging team. This group works with the most technically advanced and innovative equipment available in order to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of active duty, retired military veterans and their dependents. 

The imaging services offered include mammography, ultrasound, computed tomography, fluoroscopy, magnetic resonance imaging and routine radiography. Throughout the year, the imaging team averages 22,000 exams.

All diagnostic imaging technologists complete four months of initial Phase I training and an additional eight months of Phase II training, which includes classroom and on the job training. Offutt is one of eleven Phase II training sites in the Air Force and graduates an average of six technologist per year. In fact, the Phase II training program here was awarded an “Excellent” rating during a 2016 Medical Education and Training Command site visit.  

Diagnostic imaging technical school is an accredited program and upon graduation and completion of required courses, individuals are eligible to challenge the national examination for their American Registry of Radiologic Technologists certification.

The diagnostic imaging technologists stationed here are constantly honing their skills through continuing medical education. In 2017 alone, four Airmen have earned their American Registry of Radiologic Technologists certification, two earned their Sonography Principles of Instrumentation Ultrasound certification, and two completed their Community College of the Air Force degrees.

One thing radiology has taught us over the years, is that it’s what’s on the inside that counts.