From R.T. to entry-level manager: how to climb the clinical ladder

Modern healthcare institutions are faced with an environment that is rapidly changing. Many imposed changes have repercussions that affect lower-level radiology managers. According to one expert, radiology administrators face two dilemmas in preparing for the future: upgrading skills of those currently employed and ensuring that future employees are prepared to succeed. This paper examines the knowledge, skills and abilities needed for entry-level managers in radiology to succeed in healthcare. In order to gain current information on processes used in promoting staff technologists to management positions, the authors developed and mailed a questionnaire to 35 radiology administrators across the country. In addition to promoting employees, organizations should take a role in the maintenance and growth of an employee's career by creating realistic career paths for advancement, including programs in mentoring, assessment centers or formal training in the art of interviewing candidates. In order for entry-level radiology managers to succeed in a complex healthcare environment, mere technical expertise is not sufficient. The responsibility for identifying and providing appropriate education and training lies with employers, educational programs, professional groups and the employee.