Emma Aukett, Imaging Manager at Benenden Hospital talks to us about the role of the radiographer and how the imaging team plays a pivotal role in the diagnostic process for our patients.
Radiography: not just xrays
When people think of a radiographer, often x-rays come to mind. This is one aspect of what the role of a Diagnostic Radiographer involves but it only scratches the surface of the multi-faceted, exciting job of a Diagnostic Radiographer. A Radiographer will have attended University for three years to achieve the qualification required to practice. Some Radiographers will have done additional training at university to allow them to report images or become Sonographers.
Imaging plays a pivotal role in the diagnostic process for many patients. If you have ever fallen over and attended A&E, had stents placed into the arteries of your heart or even had surgery it’s more than likely a Radiographer will have played a part in your care. From x-rays to CT scans, mammograms to MRI scans, and Ultrasound to Nuclear Medicine imaging to name just some of the amazing technologies that a Diagnostic Radiographer has the opportunity to work with.
Working as a radiographer
Working in Radiography quite often means you won’t be doing the same thing all day; you could be performing MRI scans in the morning and assisting the theatre team with imaging by the afternoon. No two days are the same and you are definitely kept on your toes!
Radiography combines science, technology, and patient care to provide a vital role in patient diagnosis and treatment. Radiographers provide effective communication with patients to help make them feel relaxed and informed about their imaging test whilst conducting complex technical clinical procedures.
Working as a radiographer provides a varied and interesting career. It provides the opportunity to work alongside a wide range of health professionals and be at the forefront of a fast-developing healthcare environment. It is an extremely rewarding career allowing for lots of different opportunities to grow and advance skills whilst providing the best level of treatment and care for patients.
What is radiology?
Diagnostic radiology uses imaging techniques, such as x-rays, Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and ultrasound to look inside your body to assess or diagnose disease and injury. You’ll usually be referred to us for an imaging appointment following a referral from your GP or hospital Consultant.
The Society of Radiographers estimates that over 90% of patients have some form of imaging or scan during their time in hospital. Our Imaging Department team alone performs more than 18,000 scans a year.
At Benenden Hospital we can help you get the answers you need, quickly.
Access to self-pay diagnostic services at Benenden Hospital
Find out the cost of a test, scan or examination from the Imaging section of our pricing page. For more information, or to book your treatment, contact our Private Patient Team via Livechat, on 01580 363 158 or by completing our online enquiry form.
0% finance available on selected diagnostic tests*
Take advantage of 0% finance on payment plans through our trusted partner, Chrysalis, and spread the cost of your treatment. Fit your repayments into your monthly budget rather than having to find the full cost at the time of your treatment.
*0% is only available on selected diagnostic tests only between £350-£999. Please check with our self-pay team on 01580 363 158 before applying. Full terms and conditions apply. Credit subject to acceptance.
Careers at Benenden Hospital
For more information on the Radiographer roles currently available at our hospital, visit the careers section of our website.
Published on 08 November 2022