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 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:
Position | Low | Median | High |
---|---|---|---|
Medical Asst w/ Limited X-Ray | $29,000 | $38,000 | $47,000 |
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.
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.
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.