Radiology professionals
work with x-rays.
The radiography career field encompasses a wide range of disciplines that involve x-ray technology and techniques to visualize internal parts, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Radiography may be used for either diagnostic or treatment purposes during such procedures as dental examinations, mammogram evaluations, chiropractic treatments, orthopedic examinations, the planning stages of radiation therapy and in many other. There are numerous advantages for individuals pursuing a career in radiography, including job opportunities, career advancement and income.
Job Opportunities
The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a higher than average growth rate for new job openings for radiologic technologists and technicians between 2008 and 2018. Radiology professionals with experience and training in multiple radiology disciplines are expected to have the greatest opportunities. The BLS notes that job opportunities for radiology professionals may be location specific, with some geographic areas having many openings while others may be over-saturated. Radiology professionals who are free to relocate should have the best job opportunities. Radiology professionals may find employment in hospitals, clinics, diagnostic imaging centers and the offices of private physicians.
Career Advancement
The career field of radiography offers opportunities for professionals to advance through additional education, experience and on the job training. Most radiology professionals begin their careers as radiologic technicians, or radiographers, according to the BLS. Radiographers use x-rays to produce images. Senior radiographers, or radiologic technologists, are trained in specialty imaging technologies including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), mammography and others, according to the Mayo Clinic. Technologists with advanced degrees may advance to supervisory positions such as department administrator or director. Some may choose to move into educational or instructor positions.
Income
Radiology professionals are highly-trained and experienced members of the health care community. They are typically well compensated for their services. The Mayo Clinic estimates the average starting salary in the field to be between $30,000 and $35,000 as of June 2010. According to the BLS the median income for all radiologists as of May 2008 was more than $52,000 per year, with the top 10 percent earning nearly $75,000. Those radiologists employed by medical and diagnostic laboratories had the highest median wages while those working for private physicians had the lowest median wages.
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