On this day in 1895 – a little more than three years after Aultman Hospital was founded – Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered the X-ray. Called a “medical miracle” at the time, Roentgen’s discovery revolutionized the practice of medicine. For the first time, medical professionals could see inside the human body without invasive procedures like surgery.

Today, there are many types - or modalities - of medical imaging procedures, each of which uses different technologies and techniques. These imaging modalities support medical treatment and surgery planning and enable medical professionals to diagnose health conditions. Imaging techniques also guide medical personnel as they insert catheters, stents or other devices inside the body, treat tumors or remove blood clots or other blockages.

X-rays are a form of radiography. For those who are interested in radiography as a career, Aultman College offers an associate of applied science in radiography. And for many students, the coursework can be an eye-opener.

Student Reese Ingold quickly learned, for example, that X-rays can help medical professionals see more of the human body than many people realize. “Before I joined the Aultman College program, one misconception I had about the radiography field is that X-rays were only done on bones,” Ingold said. “X-rays can be done on many parts of the body, such as the chest or abdomen.”

Students in the Aultman College RAD program are educated to begin working with patients within two weeks of starting classes.

Aultman College student Rylee McLaughlin is thrilled to be a part of a patient’s care team. “It is often said that this field is the eyes of medicine, being able to help diagnose pathologies and injuries we cannot see by simply looking at a patient,” McLaughlin said. “It is very rewarding to help a patient who may be in pain or confused by their situation, but they know after their exam they will be one step closer to answers and healing.”

The radiography clinical site rotation courses at Aultman College offer students a variety of settings, equipment, experiences and job opportunities. The program prepares students for the National Certification Examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

“I have learned so much in the RAD program,” said student Shianne Spilios. “One of the most interesting things I’ve learned is how X-rays are created. Being able to understand and tell people how X-rays are created and how the tube works is something that is very valuable to being a good X-ray technologist.”

Registered radiologic technologists RT(R) are employed in hospitals, clinics and physician offices to perform diagnostic imaging examinations. Spilios said that one of the most rewarding aspects of a radiography career is the variety of experiences.

“The thing I love most about the field of radiology is that every day it is different, and it keeps you on your toes,” Spilios said. “You never know what exam is coming, so you always need to be prepared.”

What’s more, radiologic technologists can opt to continue their education to specialize in a wide range of imaging techniques - magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear medicine, sonography, computed tomography, interventional radiology, cath lab, mammography, bone density and radiation therapy.

In fact, for student Brent McBride, the opportunity for growth is one of the most exciting aspects of a radiography career. Graduates can start working right away as a radiologic technologist, then choose a specialty. “I love the fact that there are so many modalities to grow into for career advancement,” McBride said.

McLaughlin agrees. “Before coming to Aultman College, I didn’t realize how vast the field truly is,” McLaughlin said. “From general X-ray to surgery, fluoroscopy and the other modalities, there are so many paths you can take in this field, which is amazing! It is fascinating to able to experience each one during clinical and see how everyone is helping a patient in a unique way.”

Sources:
Aultman Health System
National Institutes of Health
National Museum of Health and Medicine