U CAN 2: A pathway to a medical profession

TC Regional Health Care Corporation spotlight on Brian Shupla

TUBA CITY — Brian Shupla, a Tuba City High School graduate, entered a two-year radiology program at Pima Medical Institute in Mesa. After earning an Occupational Associate’s Degree in Radiology, Shupla returned to Tuba City and began working at Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation as a Radiologic Technologist.

What brought Shupla back to Tuba City? There were several factors, but he said the main influence was to be able to help his people. He enjoys being close to home, participating in Hopi religion and learning Hopi history.

Also, Tuba City provides a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere, as opposed to a large, busy city. As a Radiologic Technologist, Shupla takes X-ray pictures and has gained experience in the three years he’s worked at TCRHCC. He said he considers the staff and patients great to work with. Another positive aspect is the up-to-date technology in the radiology department and Brian explains that the facility now has two new digital X-ray rooms. He said looks forward to working at TCRHCC for many more years to come.

To provide encouragement and inspiration, Shupla said, “It’s a great job, hard work, a challenge, and it’s fun. I enjoy doing what I do and any person can do this job. This is only the beginning. There are other options in the radiology field in specialties like Cat Scan (CT), Ultrasound, MRI, Nuclear Medicine and Mammography. There is the option to travel to other states and countries. X-ray Techs are needed all over the world and the medical profession is always needed. There are funds and programs out there that can help along with schooling.”

Take that first step

For more information about various medical professions such as a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, X-ray technician or medical lab technologist, please contact LT. Stephen D. Navarro at 928-283-2710, Michelle Francis at 928-283-2041 or LT. Shannon Newland at 928-283-2598.

What the job entails

What do they do? Use imaging equipment, like X-ray machines, to help diagnose health problems. Radiation therapy specialists use radiation therapy to treat cancer.

Specializations: Bone densitometry, mammography, radiation therapy, X-ray technology

Preferred education: Postsecondary certificate, associates or bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology.

Certification/licensing: State license required

Getting ahead: Can become a supervisor or chief radiologic technologist

Skills & knowledge: Using radiologic equipment, explaining, doing detailed work, following directions

Where they work: Hospitals, doctor’s offices, clinics

Job outlook: Very good

Look for work: Link to job banks and other jobsearch resources

Earnings: Usually in the $28-56,000 range

(US Public Health Service Lt. Stephen D. Navarro is nurse recruiter at Tuba City Regional Health Care Corp.)