Radiography Career: Eligibility, Salary & Government Jobs

The scope of the medical profession extends far beyond doctors and nurses. Many other professionals play a major role. One of them is the radiographer.

For the successful and correct treatment of any disease, accurate diagnosis is crucial. To identify an illness, internal parts of a patient's body are often examined through radiography. Tests like X-ray, Fluoroscopy, Ultrasound, CT scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Angiography, and Positron Emission Tomography all fall under this field. Radiography is divided into two parts: Diagnostic Radiography and Therapeutic Radiography.

The radiographer's role is vital within a hospital's para-medical department. They must ensure that, according to the doctor's instructions, the patient receives the correct X-ray or scan and that an accurate report is provided. Therefore, a good knowledge of radio imaging techniques and the equipment used is essential for this career.

Eligibility to be a Radiographer

To become a radiographer, a candidate must have passed 12th grade with science subjects from a recognized board. A two-year diploma course in Radio Diagnosis Technology or Medical Radiation Technology is typically required. Some organizations also seek a bachelor's degree in radiography.

Age limit for a radiographer

Candidates should generally be between 18 and 27 years old. However, some institutes set a maximum age limit of 30 years for those with prior work experience. Reserved category candidates are given age relaxation as per government rules.

Selection Process for Radiographer

Candidates are usually selected based on academic records and interviews. If more applications are received than vacancies, the concerned institution may also conduct a written exam for shortlisting.

Government jobs in Radiography

The post of radiographer exists in hospitals run by state health departments (e.g., AIIMS, ESIC), medical education institutions, hospitals under the Ministry of Defence, Railways, and some public sector undertakings (like NPCIL). Vacancies are advertised periodically by these institutions. Updates can be found through Employment News, daily newspapers, and government job portals or mobile applications.

Career prospects in Radiography

Career prospects in radiography in India are good. After completing a radiology course, you can find employment in government and private hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, military services, educational institutions, and research laboratories. There is also significant demand for skilled radiographers abroad. Pursuing a related course overseas can lead to higher earning potential.

In government organizations, the radiographer position is typically at the Group 'C' level. Their work involves performing ultrasounds, taking X-rays, and other imaging procedures for patients in the para-medical department, following the instructions of surgeons and doctors to aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Salary of radiographers

According to the Sixth Pay Commission, the salary scale for a radiographer is Rs. 5,200-20,200. For appointments on a contract basis, monthly payments are around Rs. 25,000-30,000. Pay scales in state government departments and institutions vary by state but are generally equivalent to the prescribed scale (typically between Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 45,000 Gross).