2 answers
Gabriel
Student
Ontario
1
Question
Asked
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How do extend my career in radiology from an X ray tech to PACS analyst or EPIC or others?
Right now I’m still a college student and just wondering besides the other modalities in Radiology starting as a X ray tech. Any other tips would be appreciated as well since I am just venturing every opportunity after graduating. I do value a work life balance and wish to provide for more my family and future stuffs.
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2 answers
Zafreen Nihmathullah
2
Answers
Updated
Zafreen’s Answer
Get familiar with Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS), Radiology Information Systems (RIS), and EPIC Radiant (EPIC’s radiology module).
If your facility uses EPIC, request access to training materials or shadow a PACS administrator.
Learn about DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) and HL7 (Health Level 7) standards, as they are critical for PACS and radiology workflows.
Gain basic networking and IT troubleshooting skills (e.g., understanding servers, databases, and VPNs).
Certified Imaging Informatics Professional (CIIP) – Great for PACS-related roles.
EPIC Radiant Certification – Required for working with EPIC’s radiology module (though often provided by employers).
CompTIA A+ or Network+ – Useful for IT fundamentals.
Ask to assist with PACS-related tasks in your department.
Volunteer to help with troubleshooting image transfers or system issues.
Document issues and solutions to demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
If your facility uses EPIC, request access to training materials or shadow a PACS administrator.
Learn about DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) and HL7 (Health Level 7) standards, as they are critical for PACS and radiology workflows.
Gain basic networking and IT troubleshooting skills (e.g., understanding servers, databases, and VPNs).
Certified Imaging Informatics Professional (CIIP) – Great for PACS-related roles.
EPIC Radiant Certification – Required for working with EPIC’s radiology module (though often provided by employers).
CompTIA A+ or Network+ – Useful for IT fundamentals.
Ask to assist with PACS-related tasks in your department.
Volunteer to help with troubleshooting image transfers or system issues.
Document issues and solutions to demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
Ekemini Jacob
Civil engineering
1
Answer
Uyo, Akwa Ibom, Nigeria
Updated
Ekemini’s Answer
Extending your career in radiology from an X-ray tech to a PACS analyst, EPIC, or other related roles requires strategic planning, education, and training. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve your career goals:
Short-term goals (1-2 years)
1. *PACS Administrator Certification*: Obtain certifications like the Certified PACS Administrator (CPA) or the Certified Imaging Informatics Professional (CIIP) to demonstrate your expertise.
2. *Online courses and training*: Take online courses or training programs focused on PACS administration, healthcare IT, and imaging informatics.
3. *Networking*: Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations (e.g., Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM)), and connect with professionals in your desired field.
Mid-term goals (2-5 years)
1. *Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field*: Pursue a degree in health information management, healthcare administration, or a related field to enhance your knowledge and skills.
2. *EPIC or other EHR training*: Obtain training and certification in EPIC or other electronic health record (EHR) systems.
3. *Specialized certifications*: Consider certifications like the Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) or the Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS).
Long-term goals (5+ years)
1. *Bachelor's or Master's degree in a related field*: Pursue advanced degrees in health informatics, healthcare administration, or related fields.
2. *Leadership roles*: Move into leadership positions, such as a PACS team lead, imaging informatics manager, or director of radiology informatics.
3. *Industry-recognized expert*: Establish yourself as a subject matter expert through publications, presentations, and speaking engagements.
Actionable steps
1. *Update your resume*: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience, education, and certifications.
2. *Create a professional online presence*: Establish a LinkedIn profile and connect with professionals in your desired field.
3. *Seek mentorship*: Find a mentor who can guide you through your career transition.
4. *Stay current with industry developments*: Participate in webinars, workshops, and conferences to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies.
By following these steps and setting realistic goals, you can successfully transition from an X-ray tech to a PACS analyst, EPIC, or other related roles in radiology.
Short-term goals (1-2 years)
1. *PACS Administrator Certification*: Obtain certifications like the Certified PACS Administrator (CPA) or the Certified Imaging Informatics Professional (CIIP) to demonstrate your expertise.
2. *Online courses and training*: Take online courses or training programs focused on PACS administration, healthcare IT, and imaging informatics.
3. *Networking*: Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations (e.g., Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM)), and connect with professionals in your desired field.
Mid-term goals (2-5 years)
1. *Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field*: Pursue a degree in health information management, healthcare administration, or a related field to enhance your knowledge and skills.
2. *EPIC or other EHR training*: Obtain training and certification in EPIC or other electronic health record (EHR) systems.
3. *Specialized certifications*: Consider certifications like the Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) or the Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS).
Long-term goals (5+ years)
1. *Bachelor's or Master's degree in a related field*: Pursue advanced degrees in health informatics, healthcare administration, or related fields.
2. *Leadership roles*: Move into leadership positions, such as a PACS team lead, imaging informatics manager, or director of radiology informatics.
3. *Industry-recognized expert*: Establish yourself as a subject matter expert through publications, presentations, and speaking engagements.
Actionable steps
1. *Update your resume*: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience, education, and certifications.
2. *Create a professional online presence*: Establish a LinkedIn profile and connect with professionals in your desired field.
3. *Seek mentorship*: Find a mentor who can guide you through your career transition.
4. *Stay current with industry developments*: Participate in webinars, workshops, and conferences to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies.
By following these steps and setting realistic goals, you can successfully transition from an X-ray tech to a PACS analyst, EPIC, or other related roles in radiology.