Getting Better Radiology Pay Based On Where You Work

Although pay isn't the only reason to become a radiologist or a radiology technician, people working in the field of radiology do get paid very well. The best part is that as the population ages, the demand for these skills will continue to grow. Also, the medical profession is generally immune to recessions. After all, people don't stop having health care needs just because of an economic downturn. Here are a few pieces of information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics on where radiology professionals who receive the highest compensation work.

Radiology techs can expect better pay from medical and diagnostic laboratories. Those working in medical and surgical hospitals are paid in the middle range, and physicians' offices pay their radiology technicians in the lower range. However, doesn't mean everyone should go work in a radiology lab. Keep in mind that the difference between the highest and the lowest median pay for different places of employment is about $6,000. So, depending on where you live, how much experience you have, and your specialty, there might not be a difference in pay at all.

Self-employment is probably the best option for those of you who are radiologists or interested in becoming a radiologist. Doctors who own their own medical practice enjoy higher incomes than those who work on a salary. This is also true for physicians who are part-owners of a practice (in case you don't want to completely own a practice by yourself). As a rule, business owners normally make more money than their employees so this should not come as a surprise.

Of course, radiology continuing education and choosing a specialty are the best ways to increase your compensation. Growing your current skills makes you much more valuable and puts you in the best position for raises, promotions, and even better job offers. Your interviewing and negotiation skills also play a role in your pay rate, so don't forget to brush up on those skills too!