Digital Mammography Training

Mammography training programs teach students how to produce relevant diagnostic images.

Mammography is a diagnostic procedure conducted by radiologic technologists for the purpose of locating and diagnosing abnormalities in breast tissue. Individuals interested in employment in this field must complete a college-level radiologic technology program and complete a training course in mammography.

Requirements

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, radiologic technologists interested in working in the field of mammography must obtain mammography-specific training, if their initial training did not include this specialty. Radiologic technologists must also complete training in full field digital mammographic (FFDM) examinations prior to performing any examinations using this method.

Training

Radiologic technologists, registered prior to Jan. 1, 2001, with no previous training or experience in full field digital mammographic (FFDM) examinations must perform at least 25 supervised examinations and obtain a minimum of eight hours training in full field digital mammography. Individuals that obtained an American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certificate after Jan. 1, 2001 do not need to complete the 25 supervised examinations, only the eight hours of FFDM training.

Continuing Education

Radiologic technologists must also complete 15 continuing education units in mammography every 36 months. Continuing education credits can be obtained through in-school courses, manufacturer-provided training and professional practical training. A minimum of six of the continuing education units must be completed in digital mammography.

References

• U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Medical Devices
• U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Radiologic Technologist Mammography Specific Training