IS RADIOGRAPHY THE RIGHT HEALTHCARE CHOICE FOR YOU?
Medical technology is progressing at a rapid pace, and the 
advancements play an ever-increasing role in health and wellness treatments. This effects many healthcare fields, and arguably one that is most impacted is radiography.
- More accurate imaging equipment improves early detection and accurate diagnosis.
- Precise images contribute to less invasive procedures and more targeted treatments.
- Accurate images eliminate the need for exploratory surgery.
- Detailed results lower patient and facility costs by reducing the number of tests and procedures needed.
Radiographers or radiologic technologists (also referred to in the field as rad techs) work with physicians and radiologists. They administer imaging tests and assist with evaluating the image results to allow for an accurate diagnosis. This makes a radiologic technologist a critical member of the healthcare team. To do the job well, a radiographer will be adept using x-ray equipment, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machinery.
RADIOGRAPHY JOB OUTLOOK
Job prospects for those starting their careers in radiology are
expected to remain high, particularly for those interested in working for general medical and surgical hospitals. Radiologic technologists also work in urgent care facilities, clinics, equipment sales, and private offices.
The US Department of Labor has great news for people considering a career in radiography.
- Diagnostic laboratories and general hospitals are the highest employers of radiologic technologists, but you could also find work in physician offices, outpatient care centers, or specialty hospitals.
- The national annual mean wage for radiographers is $59,260. The overall average mean wage for New York State is $67,400, and it is higher than $70,000 in metro New York.
- Our aging population will require an increase in imaging needs. Employment is projected to grow 9% from 2014 to 2024, which is faster than average occupation growth.
For more Department of Labor Information:
Radiologic Technologist Occupational Employment Statistics
Radiologic Technologies Occupational Outlook Handbook
LIFELONG LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
There is a great deal of information for radiologic technologists to learn, and an ongoing need to stay current in your field. Hands-on clinical training is critical to success in a radiography program.
A commitment to new technology and lifelong learning opportunities make radiography a rewarding career choice. Graduates of CAHE’s Radiography Program who have passed the registry can also complete CT and MRI courses at the school.
Looking to the future: new imaging techniques that may someday be handled by radiographers are polarized nuclear imaging, multicolor 3-D in vivo imaging, and nanodiamond-enhanced MRI, to name a few. These advances keep radiographers’ jobs challenging and rewarding, and they provide ever-changing growth opportunities.