To Jaymie Waltz the job of a radiology technologist means more than just taking images. It means helping people along the way. "Usually just talking to them and explaining that it really isn't thing dangerous or afraid of, reassuring them that the doctors know what they are doing."

Technologist Vince Arzadon explains that the job of a radiology technologist is to get the best possible image so the physician can make the proper diagnosis. They typically work on machines like this one that take x-rays but they also work on other types of diagnostic machines as well. "Everything that's on the particular film. It needs to be on there. Visibly it needs to be, you know, almost technically perfect as far as the radiologist reading the film."

Jaymie says that getting a good image is not as easy as it looks. The technologist needs to be familiar with the specific needs of the patient and know what positioning will give them the clearest picture. "We basically have to access the patient first and make sure that they can move into different positions. If we can't then we need to help each other so the doctor can see what he needs to see."

Vince says that even more important than getting a good image, is making sure the patient is as safe and relaxed as possible. "Basically it's our job to make them feel comfortable."

So at your next hospital visit, remember to thank the people behind the machine, they just could save your life.

Radiology technologists receive 2 years of training and clinical work before entering the field.