Radiology

Medical Assistant with Limited X-Ray Schools

The option to start as a Medical Assistant with Limited X-Ray has become a very popular entry level one because it combines an education as a Medical Assistant with X-Ray Technician training to provide you with a well rounded set of skills.  Having both skill sets is highly sought after by employers because of the versatility of tasks they can perform in the office. As a student in Medical Assisting with Limited X-Ray, you will learn basic x-ray procedures, equipment operation, and radiation safety along with the core curriculum of medical assisting.  Many of the limited x-ray programs will prepare you for the ARRT exam; however, it is important to inquire with your schools of interest to be sure.

Medical Assistant with Limited X-Ray Job Description

Medical Assistants with limited x-ray functions perform tasks which fall under three main areas of responsibility. The first is the basic patient coordination and administrative tasks. The second is the actual assisting of the physician before, during, and after exams and procedures. The third, which is outside the scope of a traditional Medical Assistant, is the x-ray and imaging duties performed. The following is an outline of what you can expect:

Patient Coordination and Administrative Tasks

  • Taking vitals and documenting the information
  • Describe chief issue with patient accurately with physician and conduct further assessments according to individual physician/provider expectation.
  • Update patient’s chart and verify demographic information, medications, allergies, etc.
  • Prepare the patient and instrumentation necessary for the exam and instruct them for disrobing if necessary.
  • Prepare equipment, instruments, and supplies to ensure that when the physician enters, they can efficiently care for that patient.
  • Maintain patient flow and assist with evaluating the needs of arriving patients or walk-ins.

Physician Assisting

  • Give patients educational materials and instructions
  • Gather and communicate lab results as directed by the physician
  • Schedule and coordinate any specialist appointments needed
  • Maintain a “tickler” file for diagnostic test results and follow-ups
  • Facilitate the processing of prescriptions, document in medical record per Clinic protocol as directed by the provider

Limited Scope X-Ray Functions

  • Explain the patient for the procedure and ensure their understanding
  • Assist the patient in preparing for the exam (positioning the patient)
  • Provide reassurance and support to patient throughout the procedure
  • Maintain x-ray safety protocols and standards.
  • Perform the imaging of basic anatomical regions such as abdomen, chest, head, as well as the upper and lower extremities.
  • Ensure test and imaging quality is optimal so that physician can properly make diagnoses.

Medical Assistant with Limited X-Ray Salary

Salaries have a wide range depending on your geographic region, whether you are working in a metro or rural locale, your level of experience, education, and the type of facility you work in. The data above is from indeed.com and is a reflection of data across the United States.

PositionLowMedianHigh
Medical Asst w/ Limited X-Ray$29,000$38,000$47,000

Limited Scope X-Ray Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I expect to work after completing my limited x-ray degree?

Medical Assisting programs with Limited X-Ray will prepare you for an entry level position in a physicians office, outpatient clinic, medical imaging facility, or hospital.

What exactly does Limited X-Ray mean?

Limited X-Ray means that you will not receive the full standard curriculum for someone looking to become an RT (Radiologic Technologist), but instead focuses on preparing you to perform the more common procedures such as imaging of the chest, head, spine, as well as the upper and lower extremities. All limited x-ray programs will teach you proper positioning techniques, film assessment, and x-ray safety protocols. Some Medical Assistants with Limited X-Ray are certified through the ARRT and some are not. It depends on your state’s requirements as well as the employers standards.

Why should I do Medical Assisting with Limited X-Ray versus getting a standard X-Ray Tech or Rad Tech training?

Medical Assisting with X-Ray can be beneficial for those looking to get started quickly in the field and employers need individuals who have the general medical assisting and administrative skills as well as the x-ray function because many offices are multifunctional, which means they need skilled workers who are able to be productive in multiple patient scenarios. Becoming a Limited X-Ray Tech is a good way to get some introductory experience, then you can branch out within the field as your interests and the job opportunities you find guide you further into the many medical imaging and radiology career options.

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