Radiologic Technologist Career Outlook

Employment of radiologic technologists is expected to grow by 28 percent between 2010 and 2020, faster than the average for all occupations.

An increasing aging population will have more medical conditions, such as breaks and fractures caused by osteoporosis, which require imaging to diagnose and treat. Radiologic technologists will be needed to maintain and use the diagnostic equipment.

Although hospitals will remain the main employer of radiologic technologists, a number of new jobs will be in physicians' offices and in imaging centers. Employment in these healthcare settings is expected to increase because of the shift toward outpatient care whenever possible. Outpatient care is encouraged by third-party payers as a cost-saving measure and is made possible by technological advances, such as less expensive equipment, which allow for more procedures to be done outside of hospitals.

Radiologic technologists with multiple certifications will have the best job prospects.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition