Radiography professionals reviewing an x-ray image.
Radiography is the medical discipline that uses ionizing radiation, such as x-rays, to create radiographic images of internal organs and skeletal systems in the body. These images diagnose patients and allow physicians and surgeons to create treatment plans based on imaging results. Radiography careers in North Carolina include radiologic technicians and technologists, radiation therapists and radiologists. Salaries for these occupations vary based on each job title.
North Carolina Requirements
Although North Carolina does not require a state-administered license for radiography technology and therapy careers, radiography physicians must receive a state-administered license to practice professionally. Employment opportunities may increase for those who receive certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists in radiography careers other than physicians.
Radiologic Technicians and Technologists
Radiologic technicians and technologists perform diagnostic imaging requested by a physician. These professionals attend formal training programs that often lead to an associate degree, and some receive a bachelor's degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated 7,470 radiologic technicians and technologists employed in North Carolina in May 2009. Annual median wages were $52,230 or $25.11 per hour. The 25th percentile earned annual median wages of $43,680 or $21 per hour. The 75th percentile earned annual median wages at $61,510 or $29.57 per hour.
Radiation Therapists
Radiation therapists use radiography equipment referred to as linear accelerators to treat cancer patients. Under the direction of an oncology physician or oncology medical team, these professionals perform x-ray or CT scans to locate cancerous tumors, then administer radiation treatment to the cancerous areas of the body. In May 2009, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated 480 radiation therapists were employed in North Carolina. Annual median wages were $67,810 or $32.60 per hour. The 25th percentile earned annual median wages of $58,230 or $27.99 per hour. The 75th percentile earned annual median wages of $79,610 or $38.27 per hour
Radiologists
Radiologists are licensed physicians who specialize in radiography. These professionals oversee and direct radiologic technicians, technologists and radiation therapists. Other medical professionals seek the guidance of radiologists to administer appropriate diagnostic plans and create treatment plans for patients. In March 2011, CBSalary.com estimated average salaries of $325,057 for radiologists in North Carolina. The 25th percentile earned an average salary of $230,465 per year and the 75th percentile earned an average salary of $389,705 per year.
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