If you’re considering a career in radiology, you may be wondering if it’s a good job. Here’s what you need to know about radiology techs.
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Job Description
Radiologic technologists (RTs) are highly skilled health care professionals who perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as x-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. They work closely with radiologists—physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries using medical imaging. Radiologic technologists are an important part of the health care team.
What Does a Radiology Tech Do?
Medical radiology is the science that uses radiation to provide images of the human body. A radiology technologist, also called a radiographer, performs diagnostic imaging examinations, such as x-rays, on patients. Radiographers use imaging equipment to produce images of tissues, organs, bones and vessels and then provide those images for physician interpretation. They maintain equipment and quality control to insure image quality. But their primary role is patient care. They explain procedures to patients and provide support and reassurance during exams.
What Are the Education Requirements for a Radiology Tech?
Radiologic technologists typically need an associate’s degree from an accredited program. Programs typically last 2 years, but some 3- and 4-year programs exist.
Candidates for admission to an associate’s degree program in radiologic technology usually need to complete high school coursework in biology and math. They also must have graduated from high school or have a GED. Some programs prefer candidates who have completed basic courses in college, such as English and psychology.
Most associate’s degree programs in radiologic technology are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP) accredits programs that lead to certification as a registered technologist in computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Job Outlook
There are many reasons why radiology tech is a good job. Radiology technicians are in high demand, and the job outlook is good. The median salary for radiology techs is $60,070 per year, and the job growth is expected to be 14% from 2019-2029.
What Is the Job Outlook for a Radiology Tech?
The job outlook forradiology techs is positive, with an expected employment growth of 9% from 2018-2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual salary for radiology techs was $61,240 in May 2019, which is much higher than the national median salary of $38,640.
What Are the Salary Expectations for a Radiology Tech?
In 2019, the median pay for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (which includes Radiology Techs) was $72,510 per year, or $34.84 per hour. This is much higher than the national average salary of $39,810 per year. The top 10% of earners in this field made over $100,410 per year, while the bottom 10% earned below $49,540. Pay will vary depending on experience, geographical location, and place of employment. For example, those working in hospitals tend to earn more than those employed by physician’s offices.
The Pros and Cons of Being a Radiology Tech
Radiology techs are in high demand and the job outlook is good. Radiology techs are able to work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They are able to work with a variety of patients, including children, adults, and the elderly. However, there are some downsides to the job as well. Let’s take a closer look.
The Pros of Being a Radiology Tech
Radiology techs are in high demand.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be over 45,000 new radiologic technologist jobs created by 2028 — that’s a staggering 21% growth rate! With an aging population (more people = more health problems) and advances in technology (new medical imaging procedures), the demand for radiologic technologists is only going to grow.
Radiologic technologists are among the highest-paid healthcare professionals.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a radiologic technologist was $60,070 in 2018 — that’s over $29 per hour! And the top 10% of earners made over $86,350. Radiologic technologists in certain states and metropolitan areas earn even more. For example, the average salary for a radiologic technologist in California is $66,610.
Radiologic technologists have great job security.
With such high demand and good pay, it’s no wonder that radiologic technologists have great job security. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has listed radiologic technology as one of the “30 fastest-growing occupations” and projects that there will be nearly 200,000 job openings for radiologic technologists by 2028.
Radiologic technologists can advance their careers.
If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding career, radiology is a great choice. With experience, many radiologic technologists go on to become managers or supervisors. Some even start their own businesses! And if you’re interested in research or teaching, you can pursue a career in academia. The possibilities are endless!
The Cons of Being a Radiology Tech
Working as a radiology tech can be a very rewarding career, but it does have its downsides. Here are some of the cons of being a radiology tech:
1. Radiation Exposure – One of the biggest dangers of working in the field of radiology is exposure to radiation. Rad techs are constantly exposed to low levels of radiation, and this can lead to long-term health problems such as cancer.
2. Stressful Job – Another downside of being a radiology tech is that it can be a very stressful job. Rad techs have to deal with sick patients and often have to work long hours.
3. Low Pay – Although there is potential for good benefits and job security, radiology techs are often paid relatively low wages.
