Why celebrate one day when you can celebrate a whole week? After being inspired by World Radiography Day, the Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (otherwise known as ASMIRT) decided to host a National Radiographers’ and Radiation Therapists’ Week between November 4 and November 10 every year! The week is an opportunity for radiographers and radiation therapists Australia-wide to come together to educate others about their vital roles while mixing it with a bit of fun, too.
What Is National Radiographers’ and Radiation Therapists’ Week
National Radiographers’ and Radiation Therapists’ Week (NRRTW) is about taking pride in the work they do. The week demonstrates their crucial role in the healthcare of Australians to other health professionals. Radiographers and Radiation Therapists take the opportunity to promote their professions to their patients and discuss how they are part of patients’ healthcare journey and outcomes.
The 2024 theme for NRRTW is “Medical Radiation Practitioners – An essential part of your health journey” and Radiographers and Radiation Therapists from around Australia are currently preparing to celebrate!
What is ASMIRT?
The Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (ASMIRT) is the peak body representing Radiographers and Radiation Therapists in Australia.
There are almost 20,000 Medical Radiation Practitioners (MRPs) in Australia with ASMIRT members making up the majority of them. ASMIRT leads the continued professional education of MRPs, the establishment of standards of practice, and encourages and supports research. It is the main body presenting the needs of the professions to the government!
Why is November 8 World Radiography Day?
On November 8, 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered the X-ray without realising its potential or how useful it would become in the healthcare of people around the world. What’s more, in 1901, he was awarded the first Nobel Prize in Physics for his discovery! Pretty cool, right?
The first ever X-ray image was of the hand of Rontgen’s wife, which clearly showed her bones and her wedding ring. Within days, X-rays were being used for medical purposes like looking for metal in people’s hands and feet, and the use of X-rays quickly advanced from there. Just months after the discovery of X-rays, they were being used in radiation therapy to treat breast cancer.
Since the discovery of X-rays, Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy have had some significant advancements. Namely, the beginning of ultrasound in the 1940s, the CT scan in the 1960s, and the MRI scan in the 1970s!
Introducing Careers in Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy
A career in medical imaging or radiation therapy offers a unique blend of healthcare, technology, and patient care. As a Radiographer or Radiation Therapist, you’ll play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions using advanced imaging techniques and radiation therapy.
Radiographers
Those who have pursued a career as a Radiographer operate equipment like X-ray machines, CT scanners, and MRI scanners to produce images that aid in diagnosing injuries and diseases.
Radiation Therapists
Radiation Therapists focus on treating cancer patients, operating sophisticated radiation equipment to deliver precise doses of radiation to tumours and working closely with oncologists to plan and implement treatment strategies.
The medical radiation field demands a strong foundation in science, attention to detail, and excellent interpersonal skills. Radiographers and radiation therapists are at the pinnacle of rapidly advancing technology whilst maintaining a patient-centred approach. A career in medical imaging and radiation therapy combines the satisfaction of directly impacting patient care with the excitement of working at the forefront of medical technology.
The Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy can guide you to explore a career in either radiography or radiation therapy. Check out their website to see where you can study and how to learn more about these rewarding professions.
Start Your Radiography Career Today!
Feeling inspired by all this talk about exciting radiography advancements? Put yourself at the forefront of radiography innovation by kickstarting a rewarding healthcare career today! Head to ASMIRT’s job page for all the info you’ll need to get started.
