Radiology techs play a vital role in the healthcare industry, using medical imaging technologies to help diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions. As a radiology tech in Colorado, you can expect a competitive salary and a high level of job satisfaction. In this article, we'll take a closer look at radiology tech salaries in Colorado, including the factors that can affect your earning potential and the average salaries for different types of radiology techs.
The Importance of Radiology Techs in Healthcare
Before we dive into the salary data, it's worth taking a moment to appreciate the important work that radiology techs do. Radiology techs are responsible for operating complex medical imaging equipment, such as X-ray machines, MRI scanners, and CT scanners. They work closely with radiologists and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
Radiology techs must have a strong understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and pathology, as well as the technical skills needed to operate medical imaging equipment. They must also be able to communicate effectively with patients, many of whom may be anxious or fearful about undergoing medical imaging procedures.
Radiology Tech Salary in Colorado: Average Salaries and Factors That Affect Earning Potential
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for radiology techs in Colorado was $62,700 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, employer, level of experience, and type of radiology tech.
Here are some average salary ranges for different types of radiology techs in Colorado:
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographers: $73,400 - $93,400 per year
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists: $76,300 - $96,300 per year
- Nuclear Medicine Technologists: $74,400 - $94,400 per year
- Radiation Therapists: $83,400 - $103,400 per year
- Radiologic Technologists: $59,400 - $79,400 per year
Factors That Affect Radiology Tech Salaries in Colorado
Several factors can affect radiology tech salaries in Colorado, including:
- Location: Radiology techs working in urban areas, such as Denver or Colorado Springs, tend to earn higher salaries than those working in rural areas.
- Employer: Radiology techs working in hospitals or outpatient imaging centers may earn higher salaries than those working in physician offices or other types of healthcare facilities.
- Level of experience: More experienced radiology techs tend to earn higher salaries than those just starting out in their careers.
- Type of radiology tech: Different types of radiology techs, such as MRI technologists or radiation therapists, may earn higher or lower salaries than radiologic technologists.
How to Become a Radiology Tech in Colorado
To become a radiology tech in Colorado, you'll need to complete a training program in radiologic technology and obtain certification or registration. Here are the steps you'll need to follow:
- Earn an associate's degree or certificate in radiologic technology from a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
- Complete a clinical internship or practicum as part of your training program.
- Pass the certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) to become a Registered Technologist (RT).
- Obtain registration with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to work as a radiology tech in the state.
Colorado Radiology Tech Schools
Here are some radiology tech schools in Colorado that are accredited by the JRCERT:
- Arapahoe Community College (Littleton, CO)
- Colorado Mesa University (Grand Junction, CO)
- Community College of Denver (Denver, CO)
- Front Range Community College (Westminster, CO)
- Pikes Peak Community College (Colorado Springs, CO)
Conclusion
Radiology techs play a vital role in the healthcare industry, and Colorado is a great place to pursue a career in this field. With a strong job market and competitive salaries, radiology techs in Colorado can enjoy a high level of job satisfaction and financial stability. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can become a radiology tech in Colorado and start a rewarding career in this field.
How much do radiology techs make in Colorado?
+The median annual salary for radiology techs in Colorado was $62,700 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
What type of radiology tech earns the highest salary in Colorado?
+Radiation therapists tend to earn the highest salaries in Colorado, with median annual salaries ranging from $83,400 to $103,400.
How do I become a radiology tech in Colorado?
+To become a radiology tech in Colorado, you'll need to complete a training program in radiologic technology, pass the certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), and obtain registration with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).