The professional status of the radiologic technologist

There are regional manpower shortages because of the maldistribution of qualified radiologic technologists. In addition, urban versus rural maldistribution problem exists and is predicted to worsen. This and the identified economic constraints faced by institutions are exerting pressure on the profession to develop programs that will result in multiskilled/multicompetent personnel. Flexibility and receptivity to cross-training opportunities should be studied. In geographic areas where shortages have been identified, it may be necessary for the academic, employing, and health professions to cooperate to develop successful recruitment and retention strategies. Unless corrective action is initiated, there will be a critical manpower shortage in the face of increased demands for radiological services requiring qualified radiologic technologists. It will be necessary for us and the health professions being impacted to individually redefine our mission statements, goals, and objectives to focus on the future, and where common goals exist, to jointly work to achieve these goals. Now is the time for our professional organizations to be pro-active rather than wait to become reactive. We must relinquish protection and act in the best interest of the patient--the number one person in our profession--and in the best interest of the profession. To accomplish this end, radiologic technologists and radiologists must join efforts to improve the professional image of radiologic technologists and the financial benefits. This will help ensure the availability of capable and qualified personnel from today's competitive health occupational arena, and the vast array of other professions that demand bright, articulate students.