NATIONAL RAD TECH WEEK
National Radiologic Technology Week commemorates the discovery of the x-ray and supports the valuable contributions to the medical profession and healthcare. Each year, the observance occurs during the week of November 8th.
Radiology seems like modern medicine. However, the history of radiology goes back to 1895 when Wilhelm Roentgen took an x-ray of his wife. At that moment, he took the first x-ray in history. As a result of his discovery, Roentgen won the Nobel Prize in Physics. This advancement in medicine allowed for the diagnosis of fractures, broken bones, and other ailments of the skeleton.
Other types of radiology were not invented until many years later. It wasn’t until 1972 that Godfrey Hounsfield developed computed tomography or a CT scan. Real-time ultrasound machines made their way into the medical community in the late 1970s. Before this invention, women were unable to see their babies inside the womb. In 1977 Raymond Vahan Damadian invented a scanner for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All of these inventions have been vital when it comes to diagnosing certain diseases.
Radiologic technicians are those who perform diagnostic imaging procedures. These caregivers operate state-of-the-art equipment. They play a crucial role when it comes to diagnosing a variety of diseases. Medical facilities in the United States employ 337,000 registered radiologic technologists. Radiologic Technologists earn their credentialing from the American Registry of the Radiologic Technologists.
HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalRadTechWeek
Imaging centers across the country host a variety of events. These events include open houses, educational seminars on the history of radiology, information booths, free live courses for radiology students, and radiology staff outings. Radiologic technologists are also treated to lunch or coffee.
During the week, you can learn more about the history of diagnostic imaging. Learn about what kinds of diseases these tests are used to diagnose and treat. If you know of a radiologic technician, be sure the thank them. Consider the profession of a radiologic technician a worthwhile endeavor. Find videos on social media that discuss the field of radiology. Use #NationalRadTechWeek to share on social media.
NATIONAL RAD TECH WEEK HISTORY
The American Society of Radiologic Technologists founded National Radiologic Technology Week in 1979. When it first began, the week was held July 22-29. The date was later changed to commemorate the invention of the x-ray, which occurred on November 8th, 1895. The annual celebration takes place each year during the week that includes November 8th.