Radiology technicians work in a variety of facilities taking x-rays.
The majority of medical facilities in the U.S. require part-time or full-time services of a qualified radiology technician. When an x-ray, computed tomography, or CT scan, mammography, or any other type of medical imaging is necessary, it is typically performed by a radiology technician, or radiographer. They also prepare patients for these exams by positioning bodies as well as explaining the details of the procedure. Other duties include documenting patient records and results, maintaining equipment, and managing or assisting other health care professionals. Pay for radiographers depends on several factors.
Average Salary
The wage and salary for a radiology technician in the U.S. is, on average, $54,180 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The bottom 10 percent of earners average $35,700 annually, perhaps representing the less experienced or trained. While the middle 50 percent earn between $43,510 and $64,070, the highest earners make an average annual wage of $75,440, representing the top 10% of wages. This is most likely to reflect those with the most prestigious positions, training and experience.
Location
Like all professions, the location in which a radiographer works will have an influence on his wages. The most common causes are the demand levels for radiographers and the cost of living in the area. For example, West Virginia has not only the highest concentration of radiographers in the country, but also a relatively low cost of living, and the average salary is $41,400 a year. However, Rhode Island also has a high concentration of radiographers, but the annual mean wage is $60,840. The highest paying state in the country is Massachusetts, boasting an average salary of $68,530 a year for radiology technicians.
Employer Type
By far the largest number of radiology technicians work in general hospitals, holding over 127,000 positions and earning an average wage of $54,770 a year. Working at a doctor's office is also very common, but only pays $50,860 a year on average. Some positions are much more difficult to obtain, but provide higher salaries. Radiographers working with scientific research and development companies only hold about 180 jobs across the nation, but bring home an average annual wage of $64,800.
Qualifications
A person can become a radiology technician through formal training in a certificate program, associate's degree or bachelor's degree. The two-year associate's degree is the most common path. During school, students study anatomy, physiology, radiation physics and protection, imaging, medical terminology and ethics. They also gain practical experience in laboratories or medical facilities under the supervision of other radiographers or physicians. Upon completion of school, radiology technicians must gain certification, usually administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, or ARRT.
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