Army X Ray Tech Mos: A Career In Diagnostic Imaging

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The role of Army X-ray technicians, also known as radiologic technologists, is a vital part of the medical team in the US Army. As a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) 68P, these individuals are responsible for producing high-quality diagnostic images to help doctors diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses. In this article, we will explore the responsibilities, requirements, and benefits of a career as an Army X-ray tech.

The Importance of Diagnostic Imaging in the Military

Diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role in the military medical system. X-ray technicians use various imaging modalities, such as X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to produce images that help doctors diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions. These images are essential in identifying injuries and illnesses, monitoring treatment progress, and making informed medical decisions.

Responsibilities of an Army X-ray Tech

As an Army X-ray tech, your primary responsibility is to produce high-quality diagnostic images using various imaging modalities. Your duties may include:

• Operating X-ray and other imaging equipment to produce diagnostic images
• Positioning patients for imaging procedures
• Ensuring patient safety and comfort during imaging procedures
• Developing and maintaining patient records and image files
• Collaborating with doctors and other medical professionals to interpret images and make diagnoses
• Maintaining equipment and supplies, and performing routine maintenance tasks

Requirements for Becoming an Army X-ray Tech

To become an Army X-ray tech, you must meet certain requirements. These include:

• Being a US citizen and meeting the Army's age and citizenship requirements
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Scoring well on the Army's Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
• Completing the Army's Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) programs
• Obtaining certification as a radiologic technologist through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

Benefits of a Career as an Army X-ray Tech

A career as an Army X-ray tech offers many benefits, including:

• Competitive pay and benefits
• Opportunities for advancement and professional growth
• The chance to work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and field medical units
• The opportunity to serve your country and make a difference in the lives of soldiers and their families
• Access to the Army's education and training programs, including the GI Bill and tuition assistance

Education and Training

To become an Army X-ray tech, you will need to complete the Army's AIT program, which includes both classroom and clinical training. This training will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to produce high-quality diagnostic images and work effectively in a medical setting.

In addition to the AIT program, you will also need to obtain certification as a radiologic technologist through the ARRT. This certification requires passing a written exam and having a certain amount of work experience in the field.

Career Advancement Opportunities

As an Army X-ray tech, you will have many opportunities for career advancement. With experience and additional education, you can move into supervisory and management roles, or specialize in a particular area of diagnostic imaging.

Some potential career paths for Army X-ray techs include:

• Lead X-ray tech or supervisor
• Imaging department manager
• Clinical instructor or educator
• Research and development specialist
• Sales and marketing representative for medical imaging equipment manufacturers

Work Environment

As an Army X-ray tech, you will work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and field medical units. You may work in a fixed facility or deploy to a field environment, where you will be responsible for providing medical imaging services in a more austere setting.

Work Schedule

The work schedule for an Army X-ray tech can vary depending on the specific job and location. You may work a standard 8-hour day, or you may work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends. You may also be required to work on-call shifts, where you will be available to work at short notice.

Salary and Benefits

The salary for an Army X-ray tech is competitive with civilian salaries for radiologic technologists. In addition to your base pay, you will also receive a range of benefits, including:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Access to on-base shopping and dining facilities
• Use of on-base recreational facilities, such as gyms and swimming pools
• Access to the Army's education and training programs, including the GI Bill and tuition assistance

Specializations

There are several specializations available to Army X-ray techs, including:

• Mammography
• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Ultrasound
• Nuclear Medicine

Each of these specializations requires additional education and training, but can provide a range of benefits, including increased job satisfaction and career advancement opportunities.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for Army X-ray techs is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 9% increase in employment opportunities for radiologic technologists between 2020 and 2030. This growth is driven by an aging population and an increased demand for medical imaging services.

Conclusion

A career as an Army X-ray tech is a rewarding and challenging profession that offers many benefits, including competitive pay and benefits, opportunities for advancement and professional growth, and the chance to serve your country. If you are interested in a career in diagnostic imaging, the Army's 68P MOS may be the perfect choice for you.