| Radiologic technologists work at the heart of Radiology. They greet and comfort patients, explain and perform the patients' exams, and then send them off with directions, instructions, and kind words. Technologists are "people persons" who can make all the difference in whether a patient's experience at the hospital is a positive one, physically and emotionally. The Department often receives letters from patients attesting to our technologists' kind and caring attitudes. These letters are published in the Radiology Newsletter. Radiologic technologists work in X-ray, CT, MRI, Ultrasound, Mammography, Nuclear Imaging, Vascular and Interventional Radiology (Angiography), and in management positions. Radiologic technologists have the chance to become clinical super-users (equipment experts); demonstrate equipment during site visits; and get involved in improving day-to-day clinical operations. They have been involved with everything from creating a health program for Radiology employees to designing murals and coloring books for a children's X-ray room. Collaboration with Lebanon College
In 2003, Radiology and Lebanon College jointly organized a training program for radiographer students, who complete their clinical training in Radiology at DHMC and other Dartmouth Hitchcock Alliance hospitals. The collaboration with Lebanon College has been exciting for our technical staff to participate in as teachers and role models, and has been successful in helping increase the pool of well-trained radiologic technologists in New Hampshire and Vermont. Continuing Education
Conferences for staff technologists are provided at DHMC, and featured presenters have included nationally-known speakers, as well as DHMC Radiology faculty, technologists, nurses, clinicians, management, and pharmaceutical representatives. Brenda Sleasman, RT(R), has been instrumental in developing this unique inservice program for technologists at DHMC and throughout northern New England. DHMC staff radiologists have addressed the annual New England Conference of Radiologic Technologists, and the Radiology Department organizes a biennial ultrasound conference that features staff and guest lecturers. Career Advancement
Technologists can advance their careers into management. The wisdom and practical thinking that technologists develop can apply directly to making management decisions about equipment, workflow, and productivity. Technologists can become Team Leaders, supervisors who manage daily operations in one modality, such as CT scan. A former Team Leader, Jim Roberts, RT(R), became Radiology's Clinical Operations Manager. Roberts now oversees daily operations of 103 technologists working in seven modalities. Monte Clinton, RT, CRA, retired in 2005 after 13 years as Director of Radiology Administration. Clinton said his experience as an x-ray technologist gave him "a valuable understanding of patient care, organizational skills, and discipline," which he put to use throughout his 31-year career as a Radiology Administrator. |
