Contents
- The high demand for radiologic technologists
- The diverse range of job opportunities
- The relatively short amount of time it takes to complete training
- The high potential earnings
- The opportunity to help others
- The satisfaction of a job well done
- The opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology
- The chance to work in a variety of settings
- The opportunity for continuing education
- The opportunity to make a difference
Considering a career in radiologic technology? Here are 10 reasons why it’s a great choice, from job security to good pay.
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The high demand for radiologic technologists
There are many reasons to choose radiologic technology as a career. One of the most appealing reasons is the high demand for radiologic technologists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of radiologic technologists is expected to grow 12 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This demand is due in part to an aging population and advances in medical technology, which require more diagnostic imaging procedures.
The diverse range of job opportunities
Radiologic technologists are in demand in a variety of settings, from hospitals and clinics to doctor’s offices, imaging centers, and more. With the aging population and the increase in chronic diseases, the demand for diagnostic imaging services is expected to continue to grow. Radiologic technologists play a vital role in the healthcare team, providing critical information that helps doctors diagnose and treat patients.
Radiologic technologists have many job opportunities available to them. They can specialize in modalities such as x-ray, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, or radiation therapy. They can also choose to work in a variety of settings, from hospitals and clinics to doctor’s offices, imaging centers, and more. With the aging population and the increase in chronic diseases, the demand for diagnostic imaging services is expected to continue to grow. Radiologic technologists play a vital role in the healthcare team, providing critical information that helps doctors diagnose and treat patients.
The relatively short amount of time it takes to complete training
Radiologic technology training generally takes two years to complete, making it a shorter commitment than many other health care careers. For example, becoming a registered nurse typically takes four years, while becoming a doctor takes a minimum of eight years.
The high potential earnings
Though the hours can be long and the work sometimes arduous, a career in radiologic technology can be very rewarding — both personally and financially. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary for radiologic technologists was $60,070 in 2019, with the top 10 percent earning more than $87,470. Job prospects are expected to be good, with an estimated 12 percent growth in employment from 2019 to 2029.
The opportunity to help others
Radiologic technologists are an important part of the healthcare team. They provide essential diagnostic information that helps physicians treat patients.
Radiologic technologists have the opportunity to help others in a variety of ways. They can provide reassurance to patients who are anxious about their procedure, help ease pain for those in discomfort, and answer questions from family members who want to know more about their loved one’s condition.
Radiologic technologists also have the satisfaction of knowing that they are playing an important role in the healthcare system. They are often the first members of the healthcare team to see a patient and can play a vital role in diagnosing and treating conditions.
The satisfaction of a job well done
There are many reasons why you should choose a career in radiologic technology. One of the most important is the satisfaction of a job well done. When you make a difference in the lives of others through your work, it can be a very rewarding experience.
Radiologic technologists play an important role in the healthcare team. They provide diagnostic information that helps physicians diagnose and treat patients. They also play a vital role in research and education.
Radiologic technologists have many responsibilities. They must be able to work independently and as part of a team. They must be able to communicate effectively with patients, families, and members of the healthcare team. They must be able to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards.
Radiologic technologists must be able to perform their duties under stress and strangeness of conditions while providing quality patient care.
The opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology
Radiologic technologists have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology. This ever-evolving field allows technologists to stay on the forefront of medical advancements and developments. Technologists are able to provide patients with state-of-the-art care, using the most advanced equipment available.
The chance to work in a variety of settings
Radiologic technologists often have the opportunity to choose among several places of employment. According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), nearly half of all RTs hold more than one job. Many radiologic technologists find multiple job opportunities in their field and frequently change employers to explore new opportunities or seek better working conditions.
The opportunity for continuing education
One of the best things about a career in radiologic technology is the opportunity for continuing education. Many employers will reimburse you for part or all of the cost of acquiring additional credentials, and some will even pay you to attend conferences. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) offers a wide variety of continuing education courses, both online and in person, and many community colleges offer two-year degrees in radiologic technology.
The opportunity to make a difference
When you enter the profession of radiologic technology, you will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of your patients. As a radiologic technologist, you will use your skills to help diagnose and treat medical conditions. You will be an important member of the healthcare team, working closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
Radiologic technologists are in demand. Employment of radiologic technologists is expected to grow much faster than average for all occupations through the year 2026.* With an aging population and advances in medical technology, there will be an increased need for diagnostic imaging procedures, such as x-rays, MRIs, and PET scans. The need for technicians who can perform these procedures is expected to grow.
*Employment projection data for radiologic technologists from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics