How to Become a Rad Tech in New Hampshire

Radiologic technologists in New Hampshire blend technical expertise with compassionate patient care, producing diagnostic images that guide medical decisions. From rural clinics to major medical centers, these professionals operate sophisticated imaging equipment while ensuring patient comfort and safety throughout each procedure.

Working as a rad tech in the Granite State offers unique opportunities to serve diverse communities while mastering advanced medical imaging technologies. The role demands precision, adaptability, and strong communication skills - qualities that help rad techs collaborate effectively with medical teams while providing essential diagnostic services to patients across New Hampshire's health care facilities.

Key Points

• Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging procedures critical to patient care.
• An associate degree in radiologic technology is typically required to enter the profession.
• Certification through ARRT and licensure by the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure are necessary.
• The state employs approximately 1,000 rad techs according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• National job growth for rad techs is projected at 6% from 2023 to 2033 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What is a Rad Tech?

Radiologic technologists, commonly referred to as rad techs, are medical imaging professionals who operate diagnostic equipment such as X-ray machines, MRIs, and CT scanners. They play a pivotal role in assisting physicians by producing images used to diagnose and treat medical conditions.

Responsibilities include positioning patients for optimal imaging, adjusting equipment settings for accurate diagnostics, and adhering to strict radiation safety protocols. They also monitor patients during procedures to ensure their safety and comfort. Effective communication skills are essential, as rad techs frequently explain imaging processes to patients who may feel anxious or unwell.

Specialization options include CT, MRI, mammography, and bone densitometry. Advanced certifications in these areas are available through ARRT, enabling career advancement and higher earning potential.

Steps to Become a Rad Tech in New Hampshire

Becoming a rad tech in New Hampshire requires completing a structured educational path, obtaining certification, and fulfilling state-specific licensure requirements. Each step prepares candidates to excel in this growing field.

Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED

A high school diploma or GED is necessary to begin a career as a rad tech. Focusing on subjects like biology, physics, and algebra is highly beneficial. These courses establish foundational knowledge in anatomy, imaging principles, and problem-solving needed in radiologic technology programs.

Students in New Hampshire can also explore health care-related pathways through the state’s career and technical education programs. These resources offer early exposure to diagnostic imaging concepts and basic clinical skills.

Step 2: Complete a Radiologic Technology Program

An accredited radiologic technology program is required to pursue certification and licensure. The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) accredits programs that meet rigorous academic and clinical standards.

Program Options in New Hampshire

• NHTI – Concord’s Community College: Offers an Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology. The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical rotations at partner health care facilities.
• Manchester Community College (MCC): Features a similar two-year program with a strong emphasis on technical skills and patient care.

Key Components of Accredited Programs

• Coursework covers topics such as anatomy, patient positioning, radiation physics, and medical terminology.
• Clinical training allows students to practice imaging procedures under supervision at hospitals or outpatient facilities.
• Admission requirements may include a minimum GPA, completion of prerequisite courses such as algebra and human biology, and an entrance exam.

Step 3: Obtain ARRT Certification

Graduates of accredited radiologic technology programs become eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam. Passing this exam is essential for employment in New Hampshire.

Certification Details

• The ARRT exam includes 230 multiple-choice questions assessing knowledge in patient care, imaging procedures, and radiation safety.
• A minimum passing score of 75 is required.
• Testing is conducted at Pearson VUE centers, with options available in Nashua and Concord.

ARRT certification demonstrates competence in radiologic technology and is often required by employers across the state.

Step 4: Meet New Hampshire Licensing Requirements

The New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure manages state-specific requirements for rad techs. Certification through ARRT is mandatory to apply for licensure in the state.

Additional Licensing Information

• Mammography technologists and limited X-ray machine operators must also meet specialized training criteria.
• The New Hampshire Board of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy provides guidance on specific licensing requirements for advanced imaging roles.

Applying for licensure involves submitting proof of ARRT certification and paying applicable fees.

Step 5: Find Employment in New Hampshire

Rad techs in New Hampshire can find employment in hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, and private medical offices. Approximately 1,000 professionals work in the field across the state, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Top Employers in New Hampshire

1. Dartmouth Health: Recruits rad techs for positions at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and its affiliated clinics.
2. Southern New Hampshire Health: Provides opportunities for diagnostic imaging professionals in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
3. Portsmouth Regional Hospital: Offers roles in CT, MRI, and general radiography, with benefits like tuition reimbursement.
4. Elliot Health System: Hires rad techs for hospital and ambulatory care settings, focusing on patient-centered care.

Employment trends indicate steady demand for rad techs across the state, particularly in regions with aging populations requiring diagnostic imaging services.

Step 6: Maintain Certification and Licensure

ARRT certification must be renewed annually, and rad techs are required to complete continuing education (CE) credits to maintain their credentials.

Certification Maintenance

1. Renew ARRT certification by submitting an annual fee.
2. Complete 24 CE credits every two years to remain in compliance.
3. CE courses are offered through professional organizations like the New Hampshire Society of Radiologic Technologists (NHSRT).

Maintaining licensure through the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure requires adherence to state regulations and periodic submission of renewal documentation.

Licensure in New Hampshire

Certification through ARRT is required to apply for licensure in New Hampshire. The New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure oversees the licensing process for radiologic technologists. Applicants must submit an application, proof of ARRT certification, and pay the required fees to receive a state license.

More detailed information about licensing requirements can be found at the New Hampshire Board of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy.

How Much Do Rad Techs Make in New Hampshire?

Rad techs in New Hampshire earn an hourly mean wage of $37.87 and an annual mean wage of $78,780, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What skills are required to succeed as a rad tech?

Skills include attention to detail, proficiency with imaging equipment, communication abilities, and a commitment to patient safety.

Can you specialize as a rad tech?

Yes, specializations include CT, MRI, mammography, and vascular interventional radiography. These require additional training and certification through ARRT.

What settings hire rad techs in New Hampshire?

Hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, and private medical offices are common employers of rad techs in New Hampshire.

What are clinical rotations, and why are they important?

Clinical rotations are supervised training experiences in health care facilities. They provide hands-on practice with imaging procedures and patient care.

Are there career advancement opportunities for rad techs?

Yes, obtaining advanced certifications or pursuing leadership roles can lead to higher salaries and expanded responsibilities.

Start Your Rad Tech Journey in New Hampshire

Working as a rad tech offers a unique blend of patient care and advanced technology. The role combines interpersonal connections with technical expertise, allowing professionals to make meaningful contributions to patient diagnosis and treatment. New Hampshire's strong health care network provides opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and advancement in specialized imaging areas.

If you're ready to pursue a career in radiologic technology, begin by researching JRCERT-accredited programs in New Hampshire. Contact program advisors to learn about admission requirements, schedule campus visits, and connect with current students or alumni who can share their experiences. Your path to becoming a rad tech starts with taking that first step toward education and certification.