You must enjoy working with people and must be knowledgeable of anatomy and physiology, radiation safety, positioning, and medical terminology. Specifically, mammography demands exceptional people skills. Very often, you are the only person with the patient when they are being told they may have cancer.

First, you must obtain 40 hours of mammography continuing education credits. Second, you must then take the California mammography certification exam and pass it. Third, you must perform 25 supervised mammograms under direct supervision of a qualified mammographer under MQSA regulations.

The ACOG and ACR both suggest an annual mammography screening. The ACS states that women ages 50 to 54 should get mammograms annually, but those who are ages 55 and older should switch to mammograms every 2 years.

How much does a Mammography Technologist make in the United States? The average Mammography Technologist salary in the United States is $75,588 as of October 29, 2021, but the range typically falls between $68,605 and $82,380.

Though it is rare for therapeutic radiographers to transfer into mammography, it is not unheard of. It does however require further study and returning to university to complete a Postgraduate Certificate.

Pursue an education. Most employers prefer that mammography technologists have a minimum of an associate degree,although a four-year degree in radiology can give you a competitive edge over other

The two main types of mammogram machines are film-screen machines and full-field digital machines. Both types perform the same function and are used in the same manner. The only significant difference between the two types of mammogram machine is in the style of image produced.

A mammographer performs medical imaging studies of the breasts for cancer screening and diagnosis. Mammographers have training in radiology and the use of X-ray technology for imaging studies of the body. Some pursue specific certification in mammography to offer the best possible services to their patients.