HELPING OTHERS: Myra Knight at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital image processing suite using the patient Archive system.

Radiographer

Answers supplied by Debbie Love, senior radiographer and CPD facilitator at the
Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS
Trust, a large acute unit offering a range of specialist services to the people of Norfolk.

What does the job entail?
You will be using the latest technology to produce diagnostic images to determine a patient's injury or disease. There are a wide range of imaging techniques used such as plain film radiography, Ultrasound, Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Fluoroscopy (real time imaging), Nuclear Medicine and Angiography (demonstrating blood vessels). Caring for patients, looking after their comfort, confidentiality and privacy is very important and you also need to communicate effectively and work closely with other staff within the hospital.

What skills and qualifications are needed?
You will need three A-levels, of which at least two must be science subjects, or an access course in natural sciences or healthcare to be able to undertake a three-year degree course at university. Good communication, IT and organisational skills are also important.

What type of person will fit in?
Someone with a caring and sympathetic nature who is able to communicate well with patients and staff throughout the hospital. You must be hard working, conscientious and able to use initiative in stressful and difficult situations. It is a physically and mentally demanding job which requires a person to stay calm and a sense of humour might also help.

What are the pluses and minuses of the job?
On the plus side the salary is good and it is rewarding and satisfying helping other people. There are flexible working hours in some departments, rapid career progression is possible and you can work anywhere in the UK or worldwide. Technology keeps advancing so you are always learning. However, some shifts are irregular and cover long hours. It is a physically demanding job as the department is operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

What opportunities exist for career progression?
It is possible to be promoted after just 18 months and promotion starts from senior 2 grade through to service manager. A new grading scheme is being introduced for radiographers with advanced levels of knowledge where they will be advanced/consultant practitioners in specialised diagnostic areas. Radiographers are responsible for maintaining a Continuing Professional Development Portfolio (CPD) and have to attend courses, lectures and study days to maintain and update their knowledge and competency.

What can I expect to earn?
Salaries are around £17,115 for newly-qualified radiographers progressing to around £33,020 for a managerial post. There are opportunities to enhance your salary by working unsocial hours, on-call, night shifts and bank holidays.

Any hints on getting a job in this area?
Suffolk College in Ipswich (01473 702507) runs a degree course in both Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiography. Practical training takes place at Ipswich, Norwich, Addenbrooke's, James Paget and Queen Elizabeth Hospital King's Lynn. Or visit: www.sor.co.uk and www.radiographycareers.co.uk.