Medical Radiation Scientist (Radiographer)

What is a Medical Radiation Scientist (Radiographer)?

A Medical Radiation Scientist (Radiographer) is often referred to as a Diagnostic Radiographer. They perform diagnostic radiography duties including performing x-ray, ultrasound, DEXA, Mammography, CT and magnetic resonance imaging on clients for trauma, injury and illness.

Imaging assists diagnosis of problems or their exclusion. The radiographer makes decisions regarding the nature and extent of individual imaging procedures. They provide when requested by Medical Practitioners informed opinions regarding the results of procedures, which assist with diagnosis. They work with a Radiologist who is a medical specialist in Radiology who interprets images produced, and also assists them with a range of minor surgical and interventional procedures performed in Radiology (also called the Medical Imaging Department)

The Radiographer is responsible for the well-being of patients whilst they are in their care.
A Sonographer is often a Radiographer who has completed a two year post graduate diploma in medical ultrasound combined with clinical practice.

Employment in public and private health sectors and also commercial associated areas such as sales.

Roles of a Medical Radiation Scientist (Radiographer)

• Perform medical imaging
• Member of multidiscipline health care team
• Education and training to other health staff in areas of medical imaging

Career Opportunities

Level 1 - 1st Year also known as Professional Development Year as an entry level practitioner
Level 2 - Progressive development of skills from year 2 with 4 yearly increments in pay
Level 3 - Personal grading for specialist skills and/or post graduate study
Level 4 - Responsible for specific section of department or practice eg. CT, Ultrasound,
 Trauma, Mobiles, etc. or site manager in smaller public facility
Level 5 & 6 – Management positions (as Manager or Deputy) in sites with
             over 200 bed equivalent

Qualifications Required

Degree of Applied Science – Medical Radiation Science 
At either Sydney University, Newcastle University or Charles Sturt University ( Wagga Wagga) ;                   see AIR website (below) for approved interstate university programs
Followed by Accreditation by Australian Institute of Radiography (AIR) at successful completion of Professional Development Year
NB. Wollongong University does not offer a course in MRS - Radiography

Supervision Provided

1st year Radiographer has a minimum 1:1 employment ratio in NSW in Professional Development Year. This is direct for an initial period, which reduces as clinical time and experience increases. Generally a Radiographer is an Independent worker from second year of employment with reference to overall team and medical staff (Radiologists); and ongoing training in new imaging modalities.

Important Personal Attributes For Medical Radiation Scientists

• A genuine interest in caring for others
• Ability to assume responsibility and a strong leadership role
• Ability to work in a Team or independently
• Capacity to cope with pressure in emergency situations
• Good communication skills
• High degree of motivation and self-discipline
• Initiative and self confidence
• Sensitivity to people with acute or life threatening injury or disease
• Mentally and physically fit
• Tolerance, patience and tact in dealing with people from a wide range of backgrounds or cultures

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