The vacancy rate for radiologic technologists has increased to 18.1%, up from 6.2% three years ago, according to a recent survey by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.
The trend reflects broader national healthcare worker shortages and may be driven by a combination of retiring technologists, fewer young people entering the field, and increased competition among health systems, according to an Oct. 24 report from the organization.
A shortage of radiologic technologists significantly affects patient wait times for scheduling and undergoing imaging at radiology practices. In inpatient settings, fewer technologists can lead to delayed discharges and longer hospital stays due to extended wait times, the report said.
To address the shortage, health systems and radiology groups are turning to staffing agencies and exploring new strategies to increase the workforce pipeline for technologists.