Diagnostic imaging is a vital component of medical care for both the Air Force and its members. While the diagnostic imaging industry has come a long way since its inception, there are still countless ways that the Air Force can benefit from advancements in the field. The utilization of diagnostic imaging provides Air Force members with access to preventive care and treatment, while also providing assurance of early diagnosis of any medical conditions that may arise. Additionally, diagnostic imaging enables the Air Force to quickly assess the health of its personnel, as well as diagnose and treat injuries sustained during deployment and training. Furthermore, advances in the field of diagnostic imaging have enabled the Air Force to reduce training costs and improve its overall readiness. This blog post will discuss the various ways in which diagnostic imaging has improved the Air Force’s performance, while providing a comprehensive overview of the processes and technologies used by the Air Force.
What does an Air Force diagnostic imaging specialist do?
Diagnostic imaging specialists in the Air Force assist medical professionals in carrying out imaging tests and communicating results with doctors and other medical professionals. Additionally, they set up equipment for diagnostic tests, prepare patients for imaging procedures, and clean instruments after each use. Specialists in diagnostic imaging work with a variety of sophisticated medical devices. An Air Force diagnostic imaging specialist completes technical education and on-the-job training following basic training to prepare for a medical career assisting military personnel.
In the Air Force, the following are typical job responsibilities for diagnostic imaging specialists:
What is diagnostic imaging?
A non-invasive medical test called diagnostic imaging is used to learn more about a patient’s internal health. Clear images of the body’s internal organ systems, hard and soft tissue, bones, and joints can be produced using these techniques. Medical professionals have a variety of options when using diagnostic imaging techniques to address patient health issues.
Common forms of diagnostic imaging include:
How to become a diagnostic imaging specialist in the Air Force
Like any military career, becoming an enlisted diagnostic imaging specialist for the Air Force entails a set of specific steps before you can begin working. You can review the steps below that show how to work in medical services before you start your military career.
1. Talk to a recruiter
Before enlisting, it is advisable to speak with an Air Force recruiter. These experts can guide you through the enlistment process and respond to inquiries regarding your potential military career path. They can also aid in your preparation for the Armed Services Vocational Battery Assessment (ASVAB), which you will need to pass in order to be considered for a position as a diagnostic imaging specialist.
2. Enlist
You must schedule an appointment at a military entrance processing station (MEPS) in order to join the Air Force. To enlist as a private, you must have a high school diploma or the equivalent, while officers can join as recruits with a college degree. You must also pass a medical exam, submit to a drug test, and take the ASVAB as part of the MEPS.
3. Undergo basic training
A basic military training course for Air Force enlisted personnel lasts for eight and a half weeks. Each week includes physical and mental tests intended to shape recruits into disciplined and self-assured Air Force members. You’ll learn a variety of crucial details about Air Force history and military strategies, and you’ll train both mentally and physically for battle. You’ll be formally commissioned into the Air Force at a graduation ceremony after completing field exercises and receiving evaluations from training officers.
4. Complete technical training
After completing basic training, you’ll be given the task of training in a technical training program for your specific position as a diagnostic imaging specialist. The Air Force medical training facility on the grounds of Fort Sam in Houston, Texas, can accommodate up to 450 days of this intensive training. An essential component of the program is the study of human anatomy, medical technology, and radiological techniques. This phase of medical school focuses on anatomical research and practical application evaluations.
5. Start an apprenticeship
Your diagnostic imaging training will now move on to a clinical apprenticeship. You will practice your radiographic abilities during this experience in patient care facilities throughout Air Force medical facilities. Under the guidance of a training specialist, this six-month program enables medical students to manage patient care and practice imaging techniques.
6. Specialize in certain imaging techniques
One way to advance your career as a diagnostic imaging specialist in the Air Force after completing your training is to enroll in additional imaging-related specialization courses. Some military medical personnel specialize in nuclear medicine, learning to create images of the body using small amounts of nuclear material. As a diagnostic imaging specialist in the Air Force, you can also pursue a specialty in ultrasound imaging.
U.S. Air Force: Diagnostic Imaging
FAQ
How much does diagnostic imaging make in the Air Force?
By using devices like x-ray, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, Air Force diagnostic imaging technicians offer vital technical expertise to the Air Force medical community. Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) 4R0X1 is used by the Air Force to classify this position.
How long is diagnostic imaging School in the Air Force?
What is the average annual pay for an Air Force Diagnostic Imaging in the United States? As of June 22, 2022, that figure was $75,868. In the event you require a straightforward salary calculator, that comes to about $36. 48 an hour.
How do you become a radiology tech in the Air Force?
Like any medical profession, accuracy is key. As a result, a diagnostic imaging technician must complete more training than some of the other medical Air Force Specialty Codes. “Our [technical] school is 14 months long,” said Staff Sgt. Ryan Gulland, a 28th MDG diagnostic imaging technician.
