Job Security For X Ray Techs

In a difficult job market, x ray technicians are viewed by hospitals as a valuable resource. Even when staff in other departments face layoffs or hiring freezes, hospitals are unlikely to make changes in their radiology department, especially their support staff. Without x ray technicians, diagnostic procedures would not occur. As diagnostic procedures are money makers for hospitals, you can bet they want to make sure their radiologic technologists are happy. Job security is very high in this field for these simple economic reasons. Check out this excerpt from a recent article on how the economy is affecting hospitals:

"Around the country, while some hospitals still are doing well, closings and bankruptcies seem to be picking up.

In New Jersey, where 47 percent of hospitals posted losses in 2007, five of the 79 acute-care hospitals closed this year, and a sixth may close soon. In Hawaii, nearly every hospital is in trouble, with two filing for bankruptcy and one nearly closing recently.

All over, hospitals are cutting costs by outsourcing services like housekeeping and security and trimming staff through layoffs, hiring freezes and attrition. Most are trying not to touch patient care jobs _ nurses, pharmacists, therapists and X-ray technicians _ as those already have staff shortages.

"The last thing we can do is skinny down our staffing right where we need it the most," said Mike Killian, marketing vice president for the three Beaumont Hospitals in suburban Detroit."
Source: Huffington Post

Why does job security matter?

Job security in the United States depends more upon the economy and business conditions than in most countries because of the capitalist system and the minimal government intervention in businesses. Job security in the United States can vary a lot since the supply and demand for jobs depends on the economy. If the economy is good, companies make more profits and create more jobs, which increases job security. However, in periods of economic slowdown or recession, companies try to cut costs and layoff workers which decreases job security. The costs of being unemployed are high, both economically and psychologically. Other jobs may promise high salaries and benefits, but if they do not have high job security, be prepared to be out looking for another job soon. Job hunting means lost wages and lost time, time that would have been better spent in a secure job with a secure income. 

Job Security High For X-Ray Technicians

Clearly x ray tech job security is as high as for a diagnostic radiology job. By being involved in patient care, the hospital does not view you as an expendable resource when times are tough but rather as an essential component of the core hospital team. A career as an x ray technician offers a promising future, job stability and good salaries. As technology advances and the American population ages, the demand for radiologic exams and procedures has soared. The country needs a growing number of qualified professionals to provide medical imaging and radiation therapy. Wages of xray technicians are competitive with other health professionals who have similar educational backgrounds. A 2004 survey by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists showed that wages averaged about $18 per hour for entry-level radio-graphers and $25 per hour for entry-level radiation therapists. With experience, additional education or supervisory responsibilities, wages can reach an average of $25 to $30 per hour. In addition, many employers allow xray techs to work flexible schedules, including part-time or evenings, giving you the time you need for family, friends, school or other activities, while still feeling secure about your x ray tech job!