Essay On Radiology Technology

Radiology Technology, a rapidly expanding work field, has seen a recent spike in job availability and opportunities. In 2012, 229,300 Radiology Technologist jobs were available, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. That number is projected to increase 21% by 2022. With only an Associate’s Degree required for entry-level Radiology positions and a median pay of $55,910, it is quickly becoming a popular job option. A higher demand for Radiologic technologists is also coming about due to longer life spans, creating more of a market for certain types of diagnostic imaging. “As the population grows older, there will be an increase in medical conditions, such as breaks and fractures caused by osteoporosis, which can require imaging to diagnose them” (“Radiologic and MRI…”). With technological advancements and longer life spans due to a more detailed and accurate medical understanding, the Radiology field is a rapidly expanding work field that requires minimal training and an optimal entry-level salary.

Overview

“Radiology technicians produce clear and accurate images of the body that enable physicians to diagnose and treat medical conditions that would otherwise be difficult to document” (Becoming a Radiology…”). Radiologists practice mostly in hospitals, and clinics. Outpatient care is also an option when it comes to the Radiology profession. Outpatient care is done outside of a hospital, and is less costly and time consuming than hospital care. “Outpatient care is encouraged by third- party payers as a cost-saving measure and is made possible by technological advances, such as less expensive equipment, that allow for more procedures to be done outside of hospitals” (Radiology and MRI…”). “Radiol...

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...ists must maintain an appropriate and empathetic, if needed, relationship with the patient and it is vitally important to work well with others. An entry- level salary for a Radiologist can start anywhere from $44,000 to $54,000. After a few years of working as a Radiologic Technologist, most Radiologists are qualified to take the MRI Certification Exam, and if passed, can become an MRI Technician, An entry – level salary for an MRI Technician can be anywhere from $65,000 to $89,000. The minimum educational requirement to enter the Radiology field is an Associate’s degree. If a higher salary is desired, a higher degree can be pursued. With technological advancements and longer life spans due to a more detailed and accurate medical understanding, the Radiology field is a rapidly expanding work field that requires minimal training and an optimal entry-level salary.