As of last fall, 35% of radiologic technologist educators seeking to place prepared students in open jobs were still hampered by the operational effects of COVID-19. Fortunately, that figure was a far cry from the 98% who reported placement trouble in the spring of 2020.

Eight imaging associations concerned about radiology’s fiscal fate at the hands of CMS’s proposed Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for 2023 are imploring Congress to intervene.

MRI techs earned an average of $76,177 in 2019 and are making $82,395 in 2022. In fact, radiologic technologists across all modalities enjoyed a collective raise of 11.2% during that window.

Absent passage of HR 3657, the profession is “in peril,” with RAs losing their jobs and left unable to practice to the full extent of their training, advocates said. 

While eliminating gonadal and fetal shielding makes sense, the specialty should not end all use of lead aprons, one imaging group warned. 

ASRT on Monday signaled its support for House Resolution 8702, which would hold radiologists and other providers "harmless" from forthcoming Medicare changes.

Imaging groups are continuing their full-court press on the House and Senate, seeking to avert tens of millions in payment reductions slated for Jan. 1. 

Industry advocates such as RSNA and the American College of Radiology are concerned about recent reports of consumers putting off imaging amid fears of contracting COVID-19.