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EKG techs are in high demand, and their salaries reflect that. On average, EKG techs make $33,000 per year, with the top 10% earning over $50,000. If you’re considering a career in this field, read on to learn more about what you can expect to earn.
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EKG Technician Salary
An EKG tech is a medical professional who uses special equipment to record electrical activity in the heart. The average EKG tech salary is $33,110 per year, or $15.92 per hour. EKG techs usually work in hospitals or clinics, and some may work in private practices. Let’s take a look at what else you can expect in terms of job outlook and salary information for this career.
National Average Salary
As of May 2016, the national average salary for an EKG Technician was $33,530 per year, with a range between $30,460 and $36,700. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $28,490, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $40590.
Hourly Wage by State
While the average hourly pay for a EKG Technician is $17.14, actual salaries vary greatly by state and city. The following data shows the highest and lowest hourly wages earned by EKG Techs across the country.
Highest Hourly Wage: $22.50 – District of Columbia
Lowest Hourly Wage: $10.50 – Mississippi
Salary by City
EKG technicians, or electrocardiogram technicians, are allied health professionals who work alongside nurses and doctors to provide care for patients with heart conditions. An EKG tech’s responsibilities include hooking patients up to EKG machines and performing tests that help physicians diagnose cardiac problems.
While most EKG technicians work in hospitals, some may find employment in other settings, such as physician’s offices, outpatient clinics or diagnostic laboratories. Salaries for EKG techs vary depending on the employer, geographic location and level of experience.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for EKG technicians was $33,710 in May 2015. The lowest 10 percent of earners made less than $21,660, while the highest 10 percent brought home more than $51,090 annually.
Here is a look atAverage Salary by City for EKG Technicians:
–new york city NY – $41,480
-Los Angeles, CA – $38,560
-Chicago, IL – $34,860
-Houston, TX – $33,070
-Phoenix , AZ – $32,070
EKG Technician Job Outlook
EKG technicians are in high demand as the baby boomer population ages. An EKG tech can expect to make a good salary and have job security.
Job Growth
Although job growth for EKG technicians is not as high as some other medical professions, those already working in the field can expect to find many opportunities for advancement. With more and more emphasis being placed on early detection and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, the demand for skilled EKG technicians is expected to rise steadily in the coming years. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 9% increase in jobs for cardiovascular technologists and technicians between 2018 and 2028 — that’s almost double the rate of growth for all occupations!
Job Openings
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted that job opportunities for EKG technicians would grow by about 22% from 2018 to 2028, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The aging Baby Boomer population will need diagnostic tests, such as EKGs, to detect heart conditions. In addition, as the survival rate for cardiovascular disease increases, there will be a greater demand for technicians to monitor patients with chronic heart conditions.
EKG Technician Education and Training
EKG techs are in high demand, and with the right education and training, you can become one in as little as four months. The median annual salary for an EKG tech is $33,000, and the top 10% earn more than $50,000. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about becoming an EKG tech, from education and training requirements to job outlook and salary.
Education
Prospective EKG technicians must complete an accredited educational program to receive certification. These programs are typically offered at the certificate or associate’s degree level and take one year or less to complete. Some community colleges offer EKG technician training as part of a larger cardiovascular technology program. Coursework in an accredited program covers medical terminology, human anatomy, physiology, medical ethical and legal issues and paperwork procedures. EKG technician students also receive hands-on training administering EKGs under the supervision of experienced technicians or licensed physicians.
Certification
There are no specific educational requirements to become a certified EKG technician. However, most employers prefer to hire those with an associate degree or postsecondary certificate in cardiovascular technology, electrocardiography, or a related field.
EKG techs must complete a certification process that includes passing an exam administered by a nationally recognized organization such as the National Healthcare Association (NHA) or the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT). Certification typically must be renewed every two years.
Training
EKG technician training involves learning how to operate the machines that are used to record electrical activity in the heart. EKG techs must be able to troubleshoot problems with the equipment and maintain a sterile environment. Some EKG technicians may also be responsible for performing stress tests or Holter monitor readings. EKG technician training programs typically last about six weeks, although some hospitals offer more comprehensive programs that can last up to a year.
After completing an EKG technician training program, most technicians are required to take a certification exam. Many states also require EKG technicians to be licensed. Some technicians may choose to become certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). To become certified by the ARRT, technicians must pass an examination and meet continuing education requirements.
