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It’s no secret that Radiology Techs make good money. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for a Radiology Technician is $33.65. But how much does a radiology tech make per hour? Let’s take a look.
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What Does a radiology tech Do?
Radiologic technologists are responsible for performing diagnostic imaging examinations, such as x-rays, on patients. They operate x-ray and computed tomography (CT) scanners. A radiology tech may specialize in a particular imaging modality, such as mammography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Job Description
A radiology technologist is a medical professional who uses imaging equipment to create diagnostic images of the human body. These images are then used by physicians to diagnose and treat illness and injury.
Radiology technologists may work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices. They may also find employment in research facilities or government agencies. In some cases, radiology technologists may be self-employed.
Radiology technologists typically work full-time hours. Some positions may require evening or weekend hours, and some technologists may be on-call for emergencies.
Duties
In general, radiology techs are responsible for operating X-ray machines and other imaging equipment to create diagnostic images of patients’ bones, organs, and other tissue. They work closely with radiologists—physicians who interpret diagnostic images—and other members of the medical team to provide patient care.
Radiology techs typically have an associate degree or professional certification in radiologic technology. Many states also require licensing. Radiology techs must be able to follow detailed instructions and maintain focus while working with potentially dangerous equipment. They must also be able to comfort patients who may be anxious about their procedures.
How Much Does a Radiology Tech Make?
Radiology techs are in high demand and the Bureau of Labor and Statistics predicts a 12% growth in the field by 2026. With such high demand, it’s no wonder that people are asking how much radiology techs make per hour. The answer may surprise you.
Salary
The average radiology tech salary is $28.14 per hour. The median salary for a radiology tech is $27.50 per hour. The lowest 10% of radiology techs make less than $19.49 per hour, and the highest 10% of radiology techs make more than $39.37 per hour.
Factors That Affect Salary
Like most professions, the amount a radiology tech makes per hour is based on a variety of factors. Geographic location, type of employer, years of experience, and level of education all play a role in determining salary.
In general, metropolitan areas tend to pay higher wages than rural areas. This is due to the higher cost of living in cities, as well as the increased demand for radiology services. Hospitals are the largest employers of radiology techs, followed by physician offices and diagnostic imaging centers. The type of employer can also affect earnings potential; for example, techs who work in hospitals tend to make more than those who work in doctor’s offices.
Experience is another important factor in salary determination. Radiology techs who have just completed their training will typically earn less than those who have been working in the field for several years. And finally, education level can also affect earnings; techs with an Associate’s degree or higher will usually make more than those with only a certificate or diploma from a radiology program.
How to Become a Radiology Tech
Radiology techs are in high demand and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 12% growth in the field by 2026. With such high demand, now is a great time to consider a career in radiology. Radiology techs use specialized equipment to create images of the human body, which are then interpreted by radiologists. If you’re interested in a career in radiology, read on to learn more about the job and how to become a radiology tech.
Education
If you want to become a radiology tech, you will need to complete an accredited radiology program. These programs are available at community colleges, technical schools, and some four-year colleges. They typically take two years to complete and lead to an associate’s degree in radiology tech.
Radiology tech programs include coursework in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and patient care. You will also complete clinical rotations in Hospitals or other medical facilities where you will gain hands-on experience working with X-ray equipment and patients.
Once you have completed a radiology tech program, you will need to obtain certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). To be eligible for certification, you must pass an exam that covers both safety and imaging procedures. Once certified, you will need to renew your certification every two years by completing continuing education credits.
Certification
The ARRT(R) (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) offers certification in radiography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and radiation therapy. Once technologists are certified, they must complete continuing education credits to maintain their certification. Although not required, many employers prefer that technologists be certified.
Licensure
In order to work as a radiology tech, you will need to obtain a license from your state. The requirements for licensure vary from state to state, but generally include completing an accredited radiologic technology program and passing an exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Once you are licensed, you will need to maintain your license by completing continuing education credits on a regular basis.
