Radiologist techs may perform cat scans (CTs) on patients.
Radiologist techs are responsible for performing diagnostic tests such as x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging tests, cat scans and mammograms. The majority of radiologist techs usually specialize in one of these diagnostic tests instead of multiple types. They help prepare patients for diagnostic tests by telling them to remove accessories, when to hold their breath or when to remain still.
Salary
The median salary for radiologist techs in the United States as of May 2008 was $52,210, according to BLS. The middle earning 50 percent were paid between $42,710 and $63,0100. The highest earning 10 percent of radiologist techs were paid more than $74,970 and the lowest earning 10 percent were paid less than $35,100. Recent graduates of radiologist technology programs are usually paid less than those with additional years of experience and should expect to be on the lower end of this salary range.
Lifestyle
The majority of radiologist techs work approximately 40 hours each week, according to BLS. However, some radiologist techs work at night, especially those who work in hospital emergency rooms. In addition, radiologist techs may have to work on weekends or be on call. Being on call means that a hospital can call you when you're off-duty to come to work if they need your assistance. A hospital may call because of something like abnormally high patient volume. Some radiologist techs choose to work part-time for one employer or hold one job during the day and another job on some nights.
Training Requirements
Training programs for becoming a radiologist tech are commonly offered by vocational schools and community colleges, but are also available from traditional four-year universities. These programs award candidates either a certificate, associate or bachelor's degree upon graduation. However, the most common certification is an associate's degree, which takes approximately two years to complete.
Considerations
Radiologic techs are protected from the harmful effects of the radiation they work with by protective equipment like lead shieldings, according to The Official State of Michigan Website. Approximately 61 percent of all radiologist techs work in hospitals, while others work in outpatient imaging centers, according to the BLS. A career as a radiologist tech is an excellent option for individuals that want to work in the medical field and are interested in radiology, but don't want to complete more than a decade of training to become a radiologist (MD).
Outlook
Employment for radiologist techs is expected to increase by 15 percent through 2016, according to Baker College. This is due partially to the fact that the aging baby boom generation will need increased medical care as they age.
Tags: radiologist techs, diagnostic tests, earning percent, radiologist techs work, techs work, were paid, earning percent were
