Demand Soaring for X-Ray Technicians
- Article by:Health Career Center
What is an X-Ray Technician?
X-ray technicians, also commonly known as X-ray technologists or radiologic technologists, are a key component in the process of identifying, diagnosing, and treating patient illness. According to U.S. News, this position requires radiologic technologists to perform medical imaging exams and administer radiation therapy treatments. The images that the technologist takes are given to radiologists who interpret the images for the treating doctor. Radiologic technologists often specialize in a specific exam technique, like bone densitometry for example, and also assist oncology teams with radiation therapy for cancer patients.
In addition to knowing how to perform radiologic procedures on the entire human body, technicians are expected to stay current on the latest technologies, understand the importance of positioning patients in the equipment for the most clear images possible, and have a variety of soft skills, including good communication, patience, a caring nature, and kindness to ensure a positive patient experience.
The Job Outlook for X-Ray Technicians
Jobs in the medical field have always been attractive due to the usually reliable demand for various positions, good pay, and job stability. As it turns out, becoming an X-ray technician might be one of the best professional decisions you ever make. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for radiology tech jobs is expected to grow by 9 percent between 2014 to 2022.
Because of the rapidly increasing rates and prevalence of chronic diseases and a growing elderly population in the U.S., the demand for specialized positions in the medical field is expected to increase dramatically. Current predictions show the U.S. will lack enough qualified candidates to fill these roles. Between 2014 and 2022, it’s expected that around 17,200 positions will need to be filled.
Another factor driving the demand for radiology tech jobs is the influx of individuals with access to health care. Due to federal reform, more people in the U.S. have health care coverage, and with it, access to the specialized care they need, which can involve previously unaffordable tests like X-rays or other expensive imaging procedures.
The job outlook for those interested in becoming an X-ray technician looks bright as there are many opportunities for advancement, further specialization, and a wide array of employment locations to choose from. A career as an X-ray technician can go in many directions, from working in a large hospital, to an outpatient clinic, or even a more rural doctor’s office. Individuals can pursue specialization in dozens of areas, take on a managerial role of a radiology department, or even teach or perform research in the radiology field.
Salary Info for X-Ray Technicians
The rapidly increasing demand for X-ray technicians favors job stability, while the need for specialized individuals to fill these roles results in an attractive median salary in 2015 of approximately $56,670 and a higher salary of approximately $81,660 for more specialized, certified candidates.
To stay competitive in the market, individuals interested in pursuing a career in radiology should attend and graduate from an accredited program and pursue multiple certifications to stand out from fellow applicants.
If you’re looking for a radiology technologist job, click here to find a wide array of available employment opportunities across the U.S.