For the healthcare industry, the current labor shortage in the biomedical equipment service field—specifically in regard to imaging equipment like MRI scanners, Xray machines, and CT systems—has created a host of challenges for imaging department managers across the country. For healthcare organizations hoping to maintain patient satisfaction and achieve near-perfect uptime with their scanners, these are troubling times. On the other hand, for imaging professionals—or those aspiring to join the ranks—it’s a huge opportunity.
There has never been a better time to start or grow a career in the imaging equipment service field. Those who already have their foot in the door would be well-advised to keep it there. Those considering the leap from biomedical imaging technician (BMET) to imaging engineer should view current circumstance as a clear sign that it’s time to jump.
What Lies Ahead for Biomedical Imaging Engineers and Healthcare Organizations?
Qualified imaging service pros are in high demand, which means veteran engineers are in the ideal position to grow their career. By requesting and receiving advanced training, expanding in-house service capabilities, and forming relationships with others in the industry, these individuals can drastically increase their value to facility leadership, enhance personal job-security and satisfaction, and ultimately command a higher income.
For those just entering the field, high-quality training opportunities abound and receiving AAMI certification and ACI accreditation will set them firmly on the road to a rewarding and lucrative career with ample opportunity for growth.
Oftentimes, the changes in market conditions that lead to circumstances like these are short-lived after the industry evolves and adjusts to address its needs. In the case of imaging equipment service jobs, however, there appears to be no end in sight for growth opportunities. Due to the ever-expanding technical complexity of imaging systems, coupled with the integration of new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), low-cost 3D printing, and augmented reality (AR), the future looks bright for those charged with keeping these systems operational.
Medical Imaging Equipment Service Jobs by the Numbers
According to Zippia.com, “between 2018 and 2028, the career is expected to grow two percent and produce 8,000 job opportunities across the U.S.” annually. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics paints an even rosier picture with projected growth of nine percent between 2020 and 2030. They go on to predict further growth due to “an increase in medical conditions, such as cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, which require imaging as a diagnostic tool.” Currently there are nearly 30,000 job openings and the number continues to grow. Based on 2021 data provided by GlassDoor.com, salaries are also on the rise, averaging over $74,000/year and topping out at more than $117,000.
The need for qualified biomedical equipment repair and service professionals is evident across the entire healthcare occupational spectrum. According to CareerProfiles.com, “Growth will be due to increased demand for medical services as well as the increasing complexity of the medical equipment used in clinics and hospitals. Job and career opportunities should be especially favorable …”
Despite the challenges created in the healthcare industry by the ongoing effects of the pandemic, steadily rising healthcare costs, and the increasingly complex nature of medical imaging equipment, there has never been a better time for medical imaging professionals who are dedicated to keeping these vital systems up and running.
Training Programs for Everyone – Experienced Engineers and Aspiring BMETs Alike
While the need for qualified engineers is growing rapidly, so too are the salaries, benefits, and opportunities available. To help both experienced and aspiring imaging service pros take advantage of these opportunities, we’ve developed training programs to address the unique needs of each.
For those who are ready to go beyond their role as a BMET, we created our BioMed to Imaging Academy. This curriculum was designed in response to overwhelming customer demand for a course specifically made for BMETs who are ready to take the next step into imaging equipment service. This mentor-led program is designed to reduce stress and build confidence through one-on-one, dedicated support from industry-leading imaging experts and mentors, each with decades of experience training other professionals on the most advanced imaging systems in the world. It combines the flexibility of virtual classroom instruction with the confidence-building benefits of in-person training on state-of-the-art equipment. With workshops and on-the-job training filtered in throughout year. Mentors are paired specifically based needs to ensure students are ready and supported on the job.
Take the Next Step in Your Medical Imaging Equipment Service Career Today!
Now is the time to dedicate yourself to a rewarding lifelong career in biomedical equipment service. To discuss setting up a biomed to imaging program for your organization, contact us at training@directmedparts.com or check out the video below to learn more. For information on the other programs we offer, head over to our training page and download our latest course schedule.
