Radiography

By Rhoda Ohene-Ofori

What’s your job and what does it entail?

I’m a radiographer. I studied Medical Imaging at university, which is a field within the health sector that involves visualizing the internal structures of the body to aid in diagnosis. It includes radiography, sonography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), radiotherapy, fluoroscopy, and nuclear imaging.

Could you tell me more?

Radiography is the practice of taking images of the body using X-rays (radiation). The X-rays are sent into the body and absorbed by the organs, ultimately producing images. Computed tomography (CT) involves using high-energy radiation to take images of the body for diagnostic purposes, and it is performed using a CT scanner.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is another modality that helps visualize internal organs using a strong magnet. The magnet interacts with the water molecules in the patient’s body, leading to the formation of images, which are also used for diagnostic purposes.

Radiotherapy, on the other hand, involves the use of extremely high-energy electrons (X-rays) and is primarily used for treating cancer patients, rather than for diagnosis. Sonography, though not my field of expertise, involves imaging the soft tissues of the body rather than the bones. It is commonly used to monitor the health of a fetus during pregnancy.

If I may ask, why did you choose radiography

To be honest, it wasn’t something I initially planned to do. I chose it last minute because the other schools I applied to didn’t get back to me. So, I applied to the University of Health and Allied Science and chose their newest program. That’s how I ended up in this profession, and I don’t regret it at all.

Why have you not regretted it please?

Because my profession is so important—I’m contributing to helping people. Radiology is often called the “eye of medicine” because, before surgeries, doctors need me, the radiographer, to provide images to detect any pathologies or diseases before they can proceed with surgical interventions.

So how do I, a Senior High School (SHS) student, become a radiographer?

First, you need to study a science-related course in SHS, and it’s important to get high grades, particularly in your electives like biology and physics.

Looking back, if you could start SHS or University all over again… what would you do differently?

Honestly, nothing. Maybe I would pray more, both in university and SHS, and ask God to align my life according to His will. You don’t need to pursue Medicine, Pharmacy, or Law just because your parents said so or because it seems prestigious. There are many ways to contribute to people’s lives and earn a good living. Allied Health professions, for example, are often overlooked. Just find your passion and pray about it.

So as an SHS student or younger, what were some interests, if any, you had that you feel really helped you on your path to becoming a radiographer?

I liked biology and learning about the human body in general. It helped me understand anatomy, which is crucial in radiography because radiation can be harmful, so it’s important to know exactly which body part to irradiate. I also enjoyed watching medical series, which sparked my interest in the health field.

What were some of the challenges you faced in uni and how did you overcome them?

I struggled to balance my academic and social life. University offers a lot of freedom, and without discipline, it’s easy to prioritize social activities over studies. Also, you need to learn independently because the lecturers won’t spoon-feed you.

I heard that radiography can be a bit dangerous so radiographers tend to retire early. Is this true?

Well, radiation can be harmful to the body. Receiving high doses of it daily isn’t good for your health. But I know many older people still working in the profession.

When you first had the opportunity to work in the field were there any surprises?

Not really. I found it intriguing and wanted to learn more.

How is the work-life balance in radiography?

It’s a demanding job because of the daily workload. It’s quite stressful. I work six days a week with no off days.

Is radiography a financially lucrative job?

Yes, it is. As a radiographer, I can perform procedures on CT and MRI scanners, as well as X-rays. I can also choose to work at different hospitals with specialized imaging machines.

How easy is it to get a job in radiography and how do I maximize my chances of getting work.

There is a high demand for radiographers both in the country and abroad because of the workload and the importance of the profession. It’s relatively easy to find a job.

Do you have a personal message you would like to share with students?

Whatever profession you choose, make sure you have and develop a passion for it because no job is easy. The money will come, but without passion, you’ll just be living a meaningless life. So, do what you love.