Radiologists are highly skilled medical professionals who utilize medical imaging technology to diagnose and treat patients. These providers specialize in analyzing X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, PET scans, mammograms, ultrasounds, and other imaging techniques in order to accurately identify the medical care each patient may need.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for radiologists is on the rise, projected to increase by 6% over the next decade, faster than all other professions. Overall, radiologists are a crucial part of the healthcare system, and they are in high demand. Follow along to learn more the radiology salary outlook for 2024 and beyond, and how becoming a locum tenens radiologist through Wellhart can increase your income.
What is the average radiologist salary?
According to the BLS, the average radiologist made an average of $329,080 in 2022. Radiologist salaries have been on an upward trend over the last several years. Specifically, there has been an increase of 38% in the reported salary since the year 2015 according to the Medscape radiologist compensation report. This substantial rise in income over a relatively short period indicates a growing demand for radiologists’ services.
Radiologist salary compared to other specialties
Radiologists are in the top 10 highest earners in average annual compensation of the over 30 physician specialties surveyed in the Medscape 2023 compensation report. The top five specialties (plastic surgery, orthopedics, cardiology, urology, gastroenterology) all reported annual income of greater than $500,000. However, radiologists were among the few specialties that experienced an increase in annual salary from 2022 to 2023.
Earn more as a locum tenens radiologist
Locum tenens radiologists travel across the country, taking temporary work at healthcare facilities that are short staffed and in need of coverage. Since these facilities are looking for quick and high quality staffing solutions, they often pay higher premiums, meaning that locum tenens healthcare providers can easily make more than their permanent counterparts.
Locum tenens radiologists make around $280 per hour on average, however, there are many factors that impact rates including location, years of experience, and the level of demand. If you were to extrapolate that rate over a year (at 40 hours per week), the average locum salary comes out to around $598,000. That means locum tenens radiologists can make up to roughly 36% more than the average radiologist. However, making direct salary comparisons can be complicated. While permanent radiologists are more likely to be salaried, locum tenens radiologists are independent contractors earning an hourly rate, which can vary based on which assignments they take in a year.
Partner with Us
If you are a radiologist looking into transitioning into a locum tenens position, or you are a current locum tenens radiologist looking for your next opportunity, you’ve come to the right place! Here at Wellhart, we partner with medical facilities and government projects that have a need for skilled radiologists. When you partner with us, you’ll link up with one of our experienced healthcare recruiters who will get to know you, your experience, and career goals and match you with a position in the healthcare facility that’s best suited for you. As a locum tenens provider, you’ll have an opportunity to see new places, make more money than permanent providers, and provide critical care for patients. Discover our open jobs today!