Course Overview
The Biomedical to Imaging course is an innovative 7-week training program designed specifically for Biomedical Equipment Technicians (BMETs) aspiring to transition into the imaging field. This program emphasizes the critical development of imaging skills that will serve as a substantial foundation for participants aiming to become proficient imaging engineers. By integrating online learning, extended reality (XR), and intensive lab experience, the course equips technicians with both theoretical knowledge and practical competencies. Participants will delve into essential topics such as radiation safety, image formation, equipment functionality, and preventive maintenance, ultimately empowering them to troubleshoot and ensure optimal imaging system performance in healthcare environments. Graduates will not only enhance their technical expertise but also play a vital role in improving patient care through high-quality medical imaging.

Prerequisites
To attend this course, the service professional must have a two-year associate degree in electronics or equivalent service experience in the HTM career field.

Course Delivery
The course commences with a six-week online segment that features immersive XR/VR lab content, enabling technicians to engage with radiographic equipment in simulated scenarios. Key topics covered during this phase include:   Introduction to radiography. Principles of radiation safety. X-ray production and image formation. Image receptor technologies. Fundamentals of Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS). Basic troubleshooting techniques. Additionally, technicians will explore the history of radiation, critical safety precautions, major components of radiographic systems, and the complexities of preventive maintenance and troubleshooting.   Following the online component, participants will attend a one-week intensive hands-on lab experience at the RSTI training center in Solon, Ohio, where they will engage in direct training on system operation, radiation safety, image quality assessment, and first-level service procedures.   By the end of the course, technicians will have a well-rounded grasp of vital aspects, such as radiation safety protocols, the anatomy and physiology relevant to radiology, and the effective maintenance of imaging systems. Graduates will be positioned to identify issues, apply problem-solving techniques, and ensure high standards in medical imaging, ultimately contributing significantly to patient care.

Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course, technicians will be able to:

1. Explore and understand the history of radiation and the specific precautions required to work with radiographic systems.
2. Explore and understand the anatomy and physiology specific to radiology and radiographic systems.
3. Understand the major components, models, options, and costs associated with radiographic systems.
4. Explore and understand radiographic system functions and distinguish differences between the multiple modalities used in medical imaging.
5. Explore and understand the purpose of the major components utilized in various radiographic systems and associated equipment.
6. Explore and understand the fundamentals of radiographic system preventative maintenance and quality assurance programs.
7. Develop a comprehensive understanding of X-rays, their production, and their applications in medical imaging.
8. Implement safety protocols to protect patients, physicians, and healthcare personnel from radiation exposure.
9. Identify the key criteria for producing high-quality radiographic images.
10. Explain the operation of over-table radiographic, fluoroscopic, and specialized imaging systems.
11. Describe the parameters and functions of modern image receptor technologies.
12. Gain foundational knowledge of PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) and DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine).
13. Perform preventive maintenance and troubleshoot common user issues and equipment failures.
14. Apply problem-solving skills to diagnose and perform first-level service on radiographic systems.