Why Is Rad Tech Demand Up in Utah?

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Demand for radiologic technicians is up across the country, but did you know that in Utah, projected growth is more than triple the national average? An aging population, more demand for medical imaging, and a shortage of Rad Techs in the state all contribute to increased demand for Radiologic Technologists in physician’s offices, clinics, hospitals, and emergency care centers across the state.

Utah’s Aging Population Is Growing and Needs Radiologic Technicians

Once considered the youngest state in the nation, Utah demographics are shifting. Utah residents over 65 grew from 8 percent to 12 between 1980 and 2020, and that number is expected to climb to 20% by 2030. Older Americans use more imaging services due to chronic conditions that come with age like arthritis and osteoporosis. They’re also more likely to suffer from falls and when they do, their brittle bones are more likely to break. Radiography can also help detect heart disease, tumors, and cancer, all more prevalent among the elderly.

Radiologic Technicians Are Retiring

While older Utahans demand more radiology services, their absence behind the imaging equipment has also impacted demand. The retirement of older Rad Techs is causing a shortage. The vacancy rate of Rad Techs has increased from 6.2 percent three years ago to more than 18 percent today.

There’s Increased Demand for Medical Imaging in Utah

There is a growing demand for radiology services. Imaging is a reliable, noninvasive tool that physicians rely on to diagnose and treat and monitor illness, disease, and injury. And an aging population, the prevalence of chronic disease, and increased coverage of procedures since the Affordable Care Act all come together to increase demand for medical imaging. But even headaches and dizziness are often sent to imaging today; a new study found a 67 percent increase in neurovascular imaging. Additionally, as technological advances produce more detailed images with sometimes uncertain significance, physicians resolve that uncertainty with more imaging. And with more ways to treat cancer and improve patient outcomes, the need to monitor the disease increases the need for imaging.

Utah’s AI Laws Increase Requirements for Rad Techs

Utah has adopted legislation that has strict guidelines on how AI can be integrated into healthcare. While its AI laws are designed to improve patient safety, data privacy, and transparency, they do complicate how it is used in radiology. Radiologic clinics in Utah need to make sure everyone—including Rad Techs—are properly trained to conform to the AI legislative requirements.

Rad Tech Vacancy Rates Are on the Rise

The vacancy rate for Rad Techs is up across the country and Rad Techs in Utah are expected to see faster than average employment growth with the majority of jobs coming from the need to replace workers. Utah is projected to see Rad Tech job growth of 21% by 2030. Employers are especially looking for experienced Radiologic Technologists.

Radiologic Technician Jobs Are Available

While the shortage of Rad Techs may be a problem for patients looking for imaging services, it can be good news if you’re looking to enter a rewarding profession with high demand. Many areas in Utah are expecting to see particularly high demand. In the Salt Lake City and Ogden Metro areas, hundreds of jobs vacancies are projected. You might find work at health centers like Holy Cross Hospital and Intermountain Health, or with providers like HealthTronics and Utah Spine Specialists.

Are you interested in joining the growing medical career of radiologic technology? Call Charter College today. We offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Radiologic Technology to help you prepare for a fulfilling career in this field. Our program is offered in blended learning format for flexibility and convenience. Fill out the form to learn more now.