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You may not know us, but health care wouldn't be the same without us. Ours is one of the most important medical professions in history and it’s time for us to be seen.
214.2
Million
x-rays performed annually in the United States.
1.1
radiation therapy treatments initiated every year in the United States.
~15,400
job openings for radiographers and MR technologists between now and 2032.
450,000
registered medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals in the United States.
12
Modalities
among medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals.
73
computed tomography procedures performed annually.
23,000
registered radiation therapists in the United States.
27.4
MR procedures performed annually in the United States.
was performed in
1895.
We work in a high tech/high touch medical profession. Our education includes: anatomy, physics, patient positioning, examination techniques, equipment protocols, radiation safety and patient care. Learn about our 12 practice areas below.
We are probably the most familiar medical imaging professionals to you. We use radiation (x-rays) to produce 2D, black-and-white images of the patient’s anatomy. These images are usually recorded digitally with modern equipment. Radiographs may be used to detect bone fractures, find foreign objects in the body, and demonstrate the relationship between bone and soft tissue. The most common type of radiography examination is chest radiography, which is commonly performed to evaluate the heart or lungs for pathologic conditions such as pneumonia. Watch and Share the Radiography Commercial
Many of us began our careers as radiographers. What’s the difference? We are experienced, registered radiographers who have obtained additional education and certification that qualifies us to serve as radiologist extenders. We work under the supervision of a radiologist to provide advanced patient care, perform imaging examinations and communicate initial observations to the supervising radiologist. Watch and Share the Radiologist Assistant Commercial
Regular breast cancer screenings via mammogram for women over 40 are the go-to solution for preventing and diagnosing breast cancer for most women of screening age. As mammographers, we must meet stringent educational and experience standards to perform these crucial procedures used to diagnose early signs of breast cancer. Watch and Share the Mammography Commercial
As highly skilled medical specialists, we administer targeted doses of radiation to treat cancer or other diseases. Typically, we see patients three to five days a week throughout treatment. All of us receive extensive training in physics, radiation safety and patient care.
When oncologists prescribe radiation to treat cancer, we are the ones who design the treatment plan using the prescribed dose from the oncologist. We ensure that the tumor gets the prescribed dose while sparing damage to the healthy organs and tissue.
If you have had an injury or illness that affects the soft tissues of your body, you may be familiar with MR technologists. We operate MR equipment and work with patients to ensure they are comfortable and safe. The resulting images are highly detailed and can be reconstructed to create a 3D volumetric representation of the anatomy of interest. Watch and Share the MR Commercial
As computed tomography technologists we are the ones who operate this high-tech piece of medical equipment. We are responsible for capturing a series of stacked images, like slices of bread, that allow physicians to see deep inside of organs and other internal anatomy. The images can also be assembled to form a 3D volumetric rendering of the internal anatomy. Watch and Share the CT Commercial
As sonographers, we don’t just detect little buns in the oven. We also perform ultrasounds on the pelvis, abdomen, chest, blood vessels and other parts of the body to capture 2D, 3D and even 4D images that doctors can use to make a diagnosis.
When doctors need to know how organs, tissues or bones are functioning, we often get the call. Nuclear medicine technologists administer trace amounts of radiopharmaceuticals and use a special scanner to capture an image of the body part the doctor needs to examine. Watch and Share the Nuclear Medicine Commercial
Have you or a loved one ever had a minimally invasive procedure done on the heart? You were probably sedated at the time, but a cardiac interventional technologist was there to operate the imaging equipment your doctor used to perform the surgery and/or make a diagnosis.
As vascular interventional technologists, we are specially trained to assist with guiding needles, microwires, catheters, and many other sophisticated devices to transcend and enter the body’s systems without the need for open surgery. We treat patients for vascular disease of the arteries and veins, organ system dysfunction, syndromes and even joint pain. The best part is, we can help diagnose your ailment and treat it in one visit, oftentimes saving someone’s life.
If you or a loved one has osteoporosis, you may have visited a bone densitometry technologist. However, you may see us for other bone-related health concerns as well. We measure bone mineral density via a DXA machine. Doctors use the images we capture to evaluate bone loss and determine fracture risks. Watch and Share the Densitometry Commercial
We think the best way to learn is by example. So, here are some common scenarios in which you’ll interact with a medical imaging and radiation therapy professional.
Let’s say your doctor needs a closer look at a bone, joint or soft tissue to make a diagnosis…
A specialized medical imaging professional such as a radiographer, CT technologist or MR technologist will capture the images your doctor requires to make the diagnosis.
Or your doctor wants to perform an interventional procedure without the need for open surgery…
An interventional technologist will be called upon to help guide sophisticated devices through veins or arteries, and other body systems, to identify diseases or disorders and begin treating them immediately.
Or perhaps you require a routine mammogram…
In which case a mammographer will be there to produce diagnostic images of breast tissue using special x-ray equipment. The images captured during this procedure are then shared with your doctor.
And if your doctor determines radiation is required to treat your cancer…
Radiation therapists and medical dosimetrists will be there helping to plan, manage and administer your treatment.
News Publication
McKenzie Mitchell made history by becoming the first McNeese radiologic sciences student to be published before graduation with her article.
ASRT member Sara Rivard, M.A., R.T.(R)(CT), expands her role as director of radiologic technology at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan, by creating a radiologic technology leadership specialization and developing its newest degree, diagnostic medical sonography.
Radiologic Technology students pass Registry exams with flying colors.
The 2026 ASRT Award for Advocacy Winners recognize achievements in advocacy efforts, overall growth and development of individual and affiliate grass-roots involvement. Congratulations to Wendy Weaver, B.S., R.T.(R)(M), individual award recipient and the Louisiana Society of Radiologic Technologists the affiliate recipient.
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts graduated its first class of bachelor of science in radiation therapy program students in January 2025. Pictured are ASRT member Cheryl Young, Ed.D., R.T.(T), radiation therapy program director, Lilianna Rosas R.T.(T), Gunick radiation therapy graduate and licensed radiation therapist, and ASRT member Maureen Sigafoos, M.S., R.T.(T), CMD, radiation therapy clinical coordinator.
ASRT member Marian Gagna, R.T.(R)(M), with Salina Regional Health Center’s Breast Diagnostic Center in Salina, Kansas, provides advice on the importance of breast cancer awareness.
Meet the recipients of the BeRAD Professionalism Award from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute in Columbus, and Mount Sinai Health System, Department of Radiation Oncology in New York.
ASRT member Tammy Webster, Ph.D., R.T.(R)(M), has been named dean of the University of Nebraska Medical College of Allied Health Professions. Dr. Webster will be the second dean in the college’s history. She previously served as program director of UNMC’s radiography, computed tomography and cardiovascular interventional technology programs.
ASRT Member and Sgt. 1st Class Debra Schultz, R.T.(R), was recognized in a ceremony at Fort Sam Houston Joint Base in San Antonio, Texas, for 20 years of service in the Army.
The ASRT 2026 Life Member honorees are Donna Newman, B.A., R.T.(R), CNMT, NCT, PET, FASRT, Marilyn Sackett, M.Ed., R.T.(R), FASRT, and Joseph Whitton, M.S., R.T.(R)(CT)(MR), FASRT.
ASRT member Jennifer Thompson, Ed.D., R.T.(R)(QM), professor and director of Austin Peay State University's radiologic science program, wins national award for Most Effective Radiologic Sciences Educator.
The ASRT Distinguished Author Awards recognize the best peer-reviewed articles published in ASRT’s scientific journals in 2025. The awards are chosen by members of each journal’s respective Editorial Review Board after a comprehensive review of all scholarly articles published in the journals during the previous calendar year.
Amanda Respondek, a first-year College of the Mainland radiologic technology student has been named one of two Texas Society of Radiologic Technologists members selected for the ASRT Student to Leadership Development Program.
We see tens of thousands of patients daily and each one is treated with the utmost respect and care. But don’t take our word for it. Check out what real patients are saying about their experiences with medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals.
Roberta K.
About a Radiographer
Throughout the years, I've entrusted the technologists at NYU Langone/Next Generation Radiology for my regular preventative radiology care. Recently, my visits have become somewhat more frequent, as my mobility has gotten to be more limited, and the process of getting on and off a scanner is more challenging for me. Yet, each time, the radiologic technologist who cares for me is incredibly patient, kind and helpful. Their assistance makes a world of difference. I feel reassured and in good hands in their care.
Stephanie S.
About a Computed Tomography Technologist
I underwent a computed tomography heart scan in the summer of 2023 and it showed a ground glass opacity in the lung tissue around my heart. I must thank the CT technologist who positioned me for the examination. If I was placed even a few millimeters off, the radiologist wouldn’t have seen the opacity. It turned out that I had adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that starts in glands that line the insides of the organs. The CT technologist’s expertise performing the heart scan was crucial in catching the cancer early. I’m now on the road to recovery!
Ryan K.
I’m eternally grateful to the medical imaging professionals whose work was crucial in identifying that I suffered from superior mesenteric artery syndrome. From the radiographer who completed my barium follow-through study and the computed tomography technologist who performed the scans, to the radiologist who took the time to carefully research my condition and provide the diagnosis, their work was amazing and it saved my life.
Jason Lasseigne
Three weeks ago I was diagnosed with lung cancer that had spread to my brain and bones. Obviously, it's been a long three weeks filled with lots of hospital visits and trips to cancer institutes. Along the way, I have run into quite a few Imaging professionals. They have all been wonderful! Two that stood out were Samantha-Liberto Womack and Brittany Palmer. Both graduated from North Oaks School of Radiologic Technology where my cousin, Heather Koepp, is the program director. Jessica from Lake Imaging was also great. THANKFUL of these professionals!
Geoffrey M. Roche
About a Cardiac Interventional Technologist
Back in 2020, after many years of facing medical issues, I was diagnosed with Sinus Bradycardia and had a pacemaker placed. My father passed away of sudden cardiac arrest in 2021, and my family was very concerned about me. I contacted my cardiologist and requested to have a cardiac CT so that my family could see that my heart was healthy. As I had this procedure done, the technologist was so amazing and she explained everything in great detail and also ensured the notes in my chart were detailed to help address concerns of my family.
If you have a personal story about your experience working with a medical imaging or radiation therapy professional, we’d love to hear it.
Be a part of a vibrant community that prioritizes radiologic technology professions through high-quality education, professional development, and unrelenting state and national advocacy.
Join the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and take advantage of specialized training and professional resources customized for your unique career.
Learn about ASRT membership
The ASRT Foundation exists to create a future where funding opportunities for medical imaging and radiation therapy students and professionals are limitless.
Your donation can make a world of difference in their lives and the lives of patients.
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A career as a medical imaging and radiation therapy professional is incredibly rewarding.
Learn more about the education, training and requirements for becoming one of us.
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