What Does a Radiographer Do? Sarsha McCallum Explains Her Role in Orthopaedic Care

When Sarsha McCallum tells people she’s a radiographer, the response is often the same. 

“Most people say, ‘Oh, you work in radio?’” Sarsha said, laughing. “And I’m like, no…” 

As a radiographer at Joint Vision Orthopaedic Group, Sarsha plays a vital role in the earliest stage of a patient’s diagnosis — capturing the images that give clarity, direction, and reassurance. 

Watch the video to learn what that means for someone’s care. 

A crucial first step in every patient journey 

“I take x-rays and provide imaging before the patients see the doctors,” Sarsha said. 

That means, as a radiographer she’s among the first team members people meet when they arrive with pain, an injury, or uncertainty about what’s going on.  

It’s a responsibility she embraces — not just clinically, but on a human level. 

“I love the fact that I get to see the patients,” she said.  

“Sometimes you see them again in a few weeks, and you build a relationship with them.” 

From quick snapshots to deep insights 

Sarsha said x-rays offered a fast, reliable view of bones and joints — a starting point surgeons can refer to before a procedure.  

She said meanwhile, MRI and CT imaging each offered greater layers of detail. 

“MRIs and CTs are more detailed,” she said.  

“You can scroll through slices of a scan to see every single slice of a patient’s anatomy.” 

Together, these imaging tools paint a complete picture of what’s happening inside the body, giving the orthopaedic team everything they need to decide on treatment, plan procedures, and guide patients toward recovery. 

“All of that imaging together provides real depth,” Sarsha said.  

“It shows the issue — and what the surgeon needs to do to take care of it.” 

Keeping patients calm during daunting moments 

Sarsha understands that for many people, attending an orthopaedic clinic can feel intimidating. 

“Patients are already nervous about coming to these sorts of places,” she said. “They don’t know what to expect.” 

She said that’s why the welcoming environment at Joint Vision mattered just as much as the clinical expertise. 

“Having friendly people and smiling faces who are wanting to help the patients and genuinely loving what they do, it makes patients feel at ease about something quite daunting,” she said. 

A friendly face beyond the clinic 

Outside of work, Sarsha embraces the coastal lifestyle. 

“I love to go to the beach, spend time outdoors, go for walks — and shopping,” she said with a smile. “I love shopping.”

Here when you need support 

Whether it’s a fresh injury or ongoing pain, Sarsha encourages anyone who needs imaging or orthopaedic care to reach out. 

“If you need help, if you’ve had an injury, come and see us at Joint Vision,” she said. 

Get in contact so Sarsha can help you with your medical imaging needs. Book an appointment.