By Eric Massey
The medical imaging equipment services market is projected to surge to $85 billion by 2031, according to Market Research Intellect, driven by advancements in technology such as AI integration and enhanced MRI, CT and ultrasound systems. These innovations bring new complexities, increasing the need for specialized maintenance to keep cutting-edge equipment performing reliably and ensuring high-quality patient care.
Our industry faces a critical challenge amid this technological evolution – a growing shortage of skilled imaging service engineers (ISEs) capable of diagnosing, maintaining and repairing increasingly complex imaging devices. With many experienced ISEs approaching retirement, recruiting qualified professionals to fill these roles is becoming more difficult. At the same time, an aging population and continuous investment in new imaging equipment are driving hospitals to expand their fleets of advanced imaging technology.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 17% growth in job opportunities for medical equipment repairers between 2021 and 2031 – a field U.S. News & World Report recently ranked among the top seven healthcare jobs “you’ve never heard of.”
Could a solution to filling the growing talent gap in imaging technology already be within our reach?
Addressing the demand for skilled imaging service engineers requires a multifaceted strategy that balances recruitment, retention and internal development. To attract new talent, offering competitive incentives, signing bonuses and clear pathways for career advancement can be effective. Equally important is recognizing and developing the talent already within your teams. Initiatives such as structured recognition programs, opportunities for upskilling, and targeted training programs help retain top talent, close workforce gaps and strengthen workforce capabilities.
By looking inward and identifying biomedical technicians who show the aptitude and interest in expanding their skills, we can offer targeted training to help them transition into imaging engineers. Through targeted training, these team members can expand their skill sets, helping to fill workforce gaps while ensuring continuity in service delivery.
Additionally, it benefits our clients by helping hospitals manage costs more effectively, while enabling our teams to remain agile in meeting the evolving needs and unique equipment mix of each hospital or region, ensuring timely and reliable support.
Hidden Advantages of Training BMETs for Imaging
Investing in the development of our most promising biomedical technicians, we tap into a resource that not only addresses staffing needs but enhances the way hospitals manage the service needs of their imaging equipment. BMETs bring unique insights, streamline operations and reduce the risks of external hires. Training BMETs for imaging roles offers unique advantages, including:
• Reduced learning curve and improved consistency: BMETs bring a strong technical foundation, positioning them to learn the complexities of imaging systems more quickly while ensuring a deeper understanding of hospital-specific equipment.
• Lower recruitment risk: Hospitals can avoid the risks associated with hiring external candidates who may not be a cultural fit or familiar with the hospital’s systems.
• Strategic workforce planning: It allows service support companies and hospitals to create a pipeline of skilled workers, preparing for retirements or staff shortages without the pressure of sourcing external talent.
• Increased staff engagement: Offering an alternate career path shows a commitment to professional development, which can boost engagement, loyalty and overall job satisfaction.
How to Invest in Training Programs for BMETs
Crothall Healthcare’s Healthcare Technology Solutions developed and piloted a training program designed to help its BMETs transition into ISE roles addressing a critical industry talent gap while advancing career growth from within.
Transitioning to an entry-level ISE takes several months to a year to complete. Fortunately, Crothall has been able to leverage its relationships with third-party national training centers to enroll its BMETs in comprehensive training programs offered by these companies.
Comprehensive training, combined with their commitment to mastering new skills, ensures hospitals receive a high level of service. Every BMET completes core foundational courses before advancing to equipment-specific training tailored to the healthcare organization.
BMETs, like ISEs, often face high-pressure situations where they need to explain the impact of equipment issues and servicing needs in a way that’s clear and reassuring. At Crothall, we don’t just hone their technical skills – we help them build the confidence and communication skills needed to navigate tough conversations with empathy and professionalism.
By equipping teams with the skills to manage complex imaging equipment, hospitals can maintain consistent service levels, reduce delays in equipment availability and provide patients with uninterrupted access to the care they need.
Meeting Industry Needs Without Sacrificing Quality
Ensuring hospitals have highly skilled professionals repairing and servicing critical medical equipment will always be our industry’s top priority. At the same time, hospitals are seeking cost-effective ways to manage support services, allowing them to redirect savings toward patient care. One expense is the reliance on OEM service contracts, which often prove burdensome for health systems challenged with reducing costs.
These contracts can cost healthcare organizations millions of dollars annually. Some original equipment manufacturers charge nearly $1,000 per hour, with labor costs for a single equipment repair ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 – or more.
By proactively investing in our most promising BMETs and guiding them into imaging roles, we’re tackling two of the healthcare industry’s most pressing challenges: reducing costs and addressing workforce challenges – without compromising service quality. This approach not only helps hospitals reduce reliance on costly OEM contracts but also minimizes equipment downtime, ensuring patients have quicker access to accurate imaging results. Reliable service delivery supports timely diagnoses and treatments, ultimately improving the patient experience.
Tapping into the talent within your existing workforce can play a critical role in addressing workforce challenges. Whether advancing into imaging roles or excelling in their current positions, BMETs can contribute significantly to maintaining high-quality care and supporting a more sustainable future for the healthcare industry.
— Eric Massey is a Regional Director of Operations for Crothall Healthcare. To learn more about joining the Crothall team, contact Eric at eric.massey@crothall.com.
