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Medical assistants are an important part of the team in a healthcare facility. They are trained to not only help with clerical items like scheduling patients, updating medical records, and reviewing insurance coverage, but they also help with tasks in the back office. These clinical tasks may vary from one office to another and are always performed under the supervision of a doctor or nurse practitioner.
If it’s the clinical tasks, like drawing blood, recording vitals, and giving vaccines, that have you interested in becoming a medical assistant, it’s important to note that medical assistants are not allowed to help with everything. There are limits to a medical assistant’s scope of practice. One of these limits is performing X-rays.
If you are interested in becoming a Medical Assistant, you should consider enrolling in UEI College's Medical Assistant Training. The Medical Assistant Training Program is short-term, allowing you to pursue a career as a medical assistant in less than a year.
Are Medical Assistants Allowed to Take X-rays?
Whether an individual may perform X-rays depends on state law.
For example, in California medical assistants are not permitted to take x-rays in California. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has specific regulations and requirements for individuals who are authorized to perform radiologic procedures, including taking x-rays.
In California, only licensed radiologic technologists or individuals who have obtained a Limited Permit to Perform Radiologic Procedures (LPR) issued by the CDPH are authorized to perform x-rays. Medical assistants, without the appropriate licensure or permits, are not allowed to operate x-ray equipment or perform radiologic procedures.
It's important to adhere to the regulations and guidelines set by the California Department of Public Health to ensure patient safety and compliance with the law. If you are interested in pursuing a career in radiologic technology or performing x-rays, it is recommended to obtain the necessary education, training, and licensure as required by the state.
Does UEI College's Medical Assistant Program Cover Radiography?
The Medical Assistant Technician program at UEI College does not prepare students to perform x-rays on their own, but it does introduce students to the concept of radiology and how it is used in the ambulatory care setting. Students will learn the three types of radiologic procedures. With this knowledge, students will be prepared to assist with x-rays on the job and seek additional training to further their knowledge.
During the program, students will also learn other diagnostic imaging procedures like electrocardiography testing and how to identify artifacts.
Enroll at UEI College to Become a Medical Assistant
If working with a doctor and providing hands-on medical assisting sounds like something you would enjoy, you can prepare for an entry-level position as a medical assistant in as few as ten months at UEI College. Give us a call to learn more about the Medical Assisting Program!
