If you live in Texas or Georgia or would consider moving there, the need for radiologic technologists (aka rad techs) is booming. In Texas, it’s projected to grow by 18% between now and 2030. In Georgia, growth is projected at 19%.
That’s significantly higher than the national average of 6%, according to bls.gov. Have you considered a move to Houston or Atlanta? Or, maybe you already live there and are considering your career choices?
There are a few reasons for these areas’ growth in rad tech. One, the nation’s boomers are aging and they’re living longer. Plus, the populations in Texas and Georgia are growing. That brings more osteoporosis and broken bones, which means more demand for rad techs. Of course, rad techs work with the entire population, not just the retired. You might take imaging of a soccer kid’s wrist or a runner’s sprained ankle.
Additionally, as the current population of rad techs retires themselves, the country needs younger professionals to replace those who are retiring.
What do radiologic technologists do?
- Rad techs are essential members of medical teams, helping physicians determine a patient’s medical or injury diagnosis.
- Rad techs operate X-ray machines and related imaging equipment such as advanced CT (computed tomography), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound machines. (Keep in mind, CT and MRI imaging may require additional training.)
- The images rad techs take help other medical professionals diagnose disease, medical conditions, or injuries.
Working with Patients
Working as a rad tech includes a human component too, because you also work directly with patients. You’re not just managing high-tech machines. Part of the job is explaining how you’re going to use the machine, and helping patients get positioned the right way.
Getting the patient to follow your directions takes clear communication and patience, particularly if a patient is nervous, has been through a traumatic accident, or can’t follow directions very well. The job entails a mix of patient caregiving, sophisticated machine understanding, and interfacing with other medical professionals.
Interested in a career in radiologic technology?
Fortis offers an associate degree program that trains students for entry-level positions in radiological technology. The program emphasizes excellence in patient care and how to safely use radiation and modern imaging technologies. We have campuses in a variety of locations, including in Houston and in Smyrna, Georgia, near Atlanta. Click here to learn more about the program, or call 1-855-436-7847 for more information.