We observe National Radiologic Technology Week during the week of November 8, running from November 3 to 9 this year, and commemorate the discovery of the X-ray and its contributions to the medical and health sciences. Radiology might seem like a modern innovation, however, its history goes back to 1895 when Wilhelm Roentgen took an X-ray of his wife! It was also the first X-ray in history. As a result of his discovery, Roentgen received the Nobel Prize in Physics. The discovery of the X-ray advanced medical science by helping with the diagnosis of fractures, broken bones, and other ailments of the skeleton.
History of National Radiologic Technology Week
The American Society of Radiologic Technologists established National Radiologic Technology Week in 1979. Initially, the observations were held from July 22–29. The date was later changed to commemorate the discovery of the X-ray, which occurred on November 8, 1895. Since then, the celebrations have been moved to the week of November 8 to also honor Wilhelm Roentgen’s fabulous achievements.
For the longest time, the original X-ray was all there was to diagnose issues of bones and other ailments of the skeleton. Other types of radiology were not invented until many years later. It would not be until 1972 that Godfrey Hounsfield developed computed tomography or a CT (CAT) scan. Real-time ultrasound machines started popping up in the medical community only in the late 1970s. Before this invention, there was no way for the mother to look at her fetus while in the womb. In 1977, Raymond Vahan Damadian invented a scanner for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These inventions are recent, but it’s incredible how vital they have become in diagnosing certain diseases.
Radiologic technicians are those who perform diagnostic imaging procedures. These caregivers operate complex and state-of-the-art equipment. They play an indispensable role when it comes to diagnosing a variety of diseases. Timely scans can detect many serious illnesses and help patients seek prompt medical help. It won’t be an exaggeration to claim that radiologic technology saves thousands of lives every year. Medical facilities in the United States employ 337,000 registered radiologic technologists. Radiologic technologists earn their credentials from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
National Radiologic Technology Week timeline
Scientists, physicians, and inventors report burns, hair loss, and worse in technical journals.
John Hall-Edwards radiographs a needle stuck in the hand of an associate.
John Hall-Edwards is the first to use an X-ray in a surgical operation.
The X-ray microscope is developed during the 1950s.
National Radiologic Technology Week FAQs
What is a typical day for a radiologic technologist?
A full eight-hour day is very common, but many radiologic technologists may be required to work more hours. Emergencies, like an injury, can require a radiologic technologist to analyze a patient immediately. Like many medical professionals, several shifts across a 24/7 schedule are available and need to be filled.
What can you do as a radiology tech?
Radiologic technologists are the healthcare professionals who perform diagnostic imaging procedures, such as X-ray examinations, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and computed tomography (CT or CAT) scans.
Do radiologic technologists make good money?
Radiologic technologists made a median salary of $60,510 in 2019. The best-paid 25% made $74,660 that year, while the lowest-paid 25% made $49,580.
How To Observe National Radiologic Technology Week
Attend a radiologic event
Imaging centers host various events, including open houses, educational seminars on the history of radiology, information booths, and free live courses for anyone interested.
Look at your X-ray reports
Most of us have had an X-ray done at least once in our life. Take a look at X-ray imaging and see how your bones look.
Thank a radiologic technician
Thank a radiologic technician for the important work that they do. Take them out for a meal or send them a thank you card.
5 Facts About The Skeletal System That Will Blow Your Mind
We have an impressive number of bones
Adults have 206 bones, and babies have more than 300.
The smallest bone in the body
The stapes, a bone in your inner ear, is the smallest of all your bones.
The bone in our throat is unique
The hyoid bone in our throat is the only one that doesn’t connect to a joint.
Bones are strong, but teeth are stronger
The enamel on the teeth is stronger than our bones, and enamel protects the delicate nerves and tissue inside the teeth.
Some people have 13 ribs
A 13th rib is rare — only 1% of people are born with it (most people only have 12).
Why National Radiologic Technology Week is Important
X-ray has revolutionized healthcare
Getting a scan is common today, and MRI-, CT- or CAT-, and X-ray scans are important procedures to detect illnesses. National Radiologic Technology Week acknowledges the contribution of radiologic technology to healthcare.
Celebrates the advancement in medical sciences
Radiologic technology made major advancements in the last few decades. Even though it’s a relatively new technology, it’s impossible to imagine a time when this technology was not available to use. National Radiologic Technology Week also celebrates the advancement in medical science.
Highlights the contribution of radiologic technicians
National Radiologic Technology Week also highlights the contribution of radiologic technicians. Their expertise helps physicians and doctors treat their patients.
National Radiologic Technology Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | November 6 | Sunday |
| 2023 | November 5 | Sunday |
| 2024 | November 3 | Sunday |
| 2025 | November 2 | Sunday |
| 2026 | November 8 | Sunday |
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