An X-ray technologist completes formal education in radiologic sciences and passes a certification exam administered by the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists). Once certified and registered, they are trained to perform diagnostic imaging exams safely and accurately.
A technician typically gains their skills through on-the-job training rather than formal education. While they may operate imaging equipment, their scope of training and certification is not as extensive as that of a registered technologist.
A radiologist is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed years of specialized education and training. They are responsible for interpreting the images captured by technologists and providing a diagnosis based on those results.
