Radiology Technicians : Training, Salary & Career Information
Career Information
Radiology Technicians: Career, Salary and Education Information
Radiology technicians perform diagnostic exams and tests through imaging, including x-rays, for use in assessing and diagnosing medical problems. Diagnostic imaging can also be used to monitor the treatment or progression of disease. Radiology technicians help patients prepare for testing by explaining the procedure, helping them remove jewelry and other items, and by positioning the patient and of the radiographic equipment to get the best image of the part being tested. Radiology technicians must carefully observe guidelines and instructions when using the radiographic equipment to keep themselves, their patients, and their coworkers safe from unnecessary exposure.
Although working as a radiology technician risks contact with dangerous levels of radiation, these risks are reduced through the use of protective equipment, like lead aprons, gloves, and devices designed to monitor radiation exposure.
A Day in the Life of a Radiology Technician
Most full-time radiology technicians work a standard 40-hour work week. The hours could include some evening, weekend and on-call hours. Travel might be required--as some radiology technicians travel to patients in large vans carrying equipment.
Radiology technicians are on their feet much of their working day, so physical stamina and fitness is important. A radiology technician might also be required to help lift or turn an immobile or disabled patient, so strength comes in handy here, too. Radiology technicians should also be aware of and sensitive to patient needs.
Radiology Technician Training and Education
There are many routes to take to a career as a radiology technician. Varied paths include hospital courses or training through a college or university. Some states call for radiology technicians to be licensed, and requirements can differ by state.
Training in this field can lead to a certificate, an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree. Bureau of Labor Statics information indicates that most radiology technicians hold associate's degrees, which can be earned in about two years. Certificate programs in this field are sometimes a quicker route to work as a radiology technician, and can be earned in 21-24 months. A strong background in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology are helpful in training courses. As technology is always changing and evolving, many employers encourage radiology technicians to engage in continuing education.
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Radiologist Employment and Outlook
According to information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is expected to grow faster than average in the coming decade. While there were approximately 214,700 radiology technicians and technologists working in the United States in 2008, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects this figure to rise to 251,700 between 2008 and 2018.
As age often brings predisposition to illness and injury, the need for medical imaging should increase as the population ages. In addition to job prospects created by growth, other opportunities for employment in this field should arise when other radiology technicians retire or leave the profession. The job market for radiology technicians can vary somewhat regionally. Some areas might have a lot of demand for skilled workers in this field and some areas might be saturated. It's best for technicians to be flexible and open to relocating for better job prospects.
About 61 percent of all radiology technicians and technologists are employed in hospitals. Others are employed at physician's offices, medical imaging centers, diagnostic laboratories, and outpatient care clinics.
Radiology Technician Salary Information
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the mean annual income for those working as radiology technicians and technologists was $52,210 in 2008. The lowest 10 percent earned about $35,100 per year while the highest 10 percent earned an income of $74,970. The highest paid radiology technicians worked in specialized medical and diagnostic laboratories and the federal government.
