Locations:
A radiologic technologist (RT) is a healthcare professional who can help you during imaging tests or radiation therapy sessions. They’ll make sure you’re safe, comfortable and in the right position for your test or treatment. An RT might specialize in one specific type of test or area of medicine.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
A radiologic technologist (RT) is a healthcare professional who performs imaging tests and administers radiation therapy. RTs are sometimes called radiographers.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
RTs need at least an associate degree and two to four years of training in a hospital-based program or at an accredited college or university. All RTs must pass a national certification exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Some states in the U.S. require RTs to earn and maintain a state license.
RTs aren’t doctors — they don’t have medical degrees (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine degrees (DO). An RT doesn’t diagnose conditions or prescribe treatments.
Radiologic technologists help you prepare for imaging tests, set up and use the equipment during tests, and help doctors during some treatments and procedures.
RTs work closely with radiologists and radiation oncologists. An RT might help you get ready for some kinds of tests by injecting dyes into one of your veins so they show up during the test.
They can administer lots of different imaging tests, including:
An RT can help you if you need radiation therapy. RTs who administer radiation therapy are sometimes called radiation therapists.
During tests or radiation therapy, your RT will:
Advertisement
After you’re done, your RT will evaluate the test or treatment results with your doctor. They’ll also update your medical record with any findings or results.
An RT may assist during treatments like angioplasty or the insertion of a stent. Your RT might perform imaging tests so your healthcare provider can clearly see your blood vessels during the procedure.
Some RTs specialize in a specific kind of imaging test. Your RT might have a special focus in:
An RT might also specialize in a certain type of medicine, like:
Most RTs work in hospitals. But they can also work in other healthcare locations, including:
They may work in a dedicated room for imaging tests, or they may bring mobile testing equipment to you if you can’t move. This is common if you’re in the emergency room or an operating room.
It can be stressful to need an imaging test, even if it’s a routine screening. A radiologic technologist (RT) will help you feel comfortable during your test. If you end up needing radiation therapy, an RT will make sure you get the treatment safely.
Ask your RT any questions you have about your test or treatment. They’re experts who are there to help. Even if they do this work every day, it might be your first time. There’s no such thing as a silly question when you’re trying to understand your health better.
Advertisement
When you need a clear picture of what’s happening inside your body, the Cleveland Clinic imaging team is here for you.
Last reviewed on 06/11/2025.
Learn more about the Health Library and our editorial process.
