How to Become Mammogram Technician

Mammogram technicians are radiological technicians trained to operate x-ray, ultrasound, and various other forms of human imaging equipment to examine breast tissue for abnormalities. These professionals are responsible for properly capturing representations of cysts, tumors, lesions, or masses.

Mammography Degree

Mammogram technicians keep patients calm, comfortable, and ensure the entire process is as friendly as possible. It’s very important because even a routine mammogram can be a cause of great stress for patients. In addition, mammogram technician usually decides upon the best possible patient position to yield the highest quality image. They may consult with surgeons or physicians to offer their opinion on any findings.

Mammogram Technicians Equipment

Some mammogram technicians are required to service and repair imaging equipment as needed. With advancements in medical technology, many mammogram technicians are called upon to test new devices and report on their effectiveness. There are also additional duties that may include filing and processing confidential patient records, arranging for proper billing, consulting with physicians and surgeons and etc.

Mammography technicians are required to be able to understand a variety of technologies, such as how to operate x-ray imaging machinery. It’s very important to take a high quality image that can be read by a nurse or physician. In addition to technical knowledge, mammography technicians must be able to work with the patients forced to undergo this serious and sometimes stressful test.

Most mammography technicians work at a clinic, hospital or mobile mammography service. All mammography technicians are trained radiological technicians first. Many of them choose to work in the field of x-ray and sonographic technology. Experienced mammography technicians who hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree often seek out management or teaching positions.

Radiology Associate’s Degree for Mammogram Technician

If you wish to become a mammogram technician, you should complete an associate’s degree program in Radiology, Sonography or Ultrasound Technology. In these programs, you can study such subjects as physics and science behind radiologic medical tests, human anatomy, medical terminology, health care ethics, pathology and etc. It’s very important to underline that most programs allow students to intern with mammogram technicians and other radiology professionals in local hospitals or clinics to learn testing procedures and other career skills firsthand.

You should keep in mind that after graduation it may be necessary to obtain a professional license from an organization like the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians. It depends on state laws and the policies of a prospective employer. Most states require technicians to pass an approved program before being allowed to take the licensure exam. Many individuals choose to take a one-year technical course, but associate and bachelor degree programs are also available.

Trainings for Mammogram Technicians

When a diploma or degree has been earned, radiological techs must attend additional training specifically in mammograms. This training consists of 40 hours of classroom time and hundreds of hours performing mammograms under the supervision of a certified mammography technologist. New mammography technicians must also complete training on the use of solid state detectors, which is replacing standard x-rays as the preferred method of photographing breast tissue.

Mammogram technicians are required to have the following skills: human anatomy training, communication skills, knowledge of medical terminology, excellent patient interaction skills, knowledge of health care ethics, pathology training, proper testing skills, attention to detail, research skills, reporting skills, and proper film handling skills.

There are a number of schools across the USA that offer an opportunity to obtain an associate’s degree in Radiology, Sonography or Ultrasound Technology. Here are some of them:

Virginia College
- Associate: Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Anthem
- Associate: X-Ray Technician (Ltd. Scope)
- Diploma – Surgical Technologist
- Diploma: Medical Assistant
- Diploma: X-Ray Technician (Ltd. Scope)
Colorado Technical University
- Associate: Radiologic Technology
- Bachelor: Radiologic Technology
- Bachelor: Radiologic Technology: Advanced Clinical Modalities
- Bachelor: Radiologic Technology: Healthcare Management
Argosy University
- Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology
- Associate of Science in Radiation Therapy
Sanford-Brown
- Associate of Science – Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Associate: Cardiovascular Sonography
- Associate: Diagnostic Medical Sonography