Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology

We mitigate the acute radiologist and technologist shortage by securing operations leaders who leverage AI workflow automation and modality optimization. Our search mandates focus on leaders who protect imaging margins against shrinking Medicare reimbursements and rising labor costs.

Industry Challenge

Imaging centers and radiology providers face a dual squeeze: surging demand from an aging population on one side, and constrained capacity on the other. Advanced imaging volumes are rising steadily, yet providers grapple with severe technologist shortages (vacancies for MRI/CT techs hover near record highs) and reimbursement cuts that pressure margins.

Technologist Shortages: Vacancy rates for radiologic technologists are near record highs (in some modalities approaching 18%), forcing higher labor costs.
Reimbursement Pressure: Medicare fee cuts (~3% for diagnostic radiology in 2024) and ongoing payment declines have tightened margins.
High Capital & IT Costs: Advanced imaging equipment (MRI, CT scanners) and IT systems (PACS) require significant investment, driving consolidation.
Rising Compliance Burdens: Providers must navigate complex regulations like Medicare’s Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC).

Future Outlook

Despite current pressures, diagnostic imaging is positioned for continued growth and transformation.

Rising Demand in Outpatient Imaging: Total outpatient imaging up ~7.5%, with PET scans forecasted ~14% growth.
Value-Based Care Integration: Over 14% of U.S. healthcare payments are now tied to capitated or value-based arrangements. Imaging centers will face pressure to avoid unnecessary utilization.
Technology & AI Innovation: The FDA has approved over 250 AI tools for medical imaging. From AI-assisted image analysis to teleradiology, the next generation of imaging operations will leverage automation.

Our Solution

We deliver leaders who excel in resource optimization and innovation. These are VP- and Director-level candidates who know how to maximize modality utilization, mitigate staffing shortfalls with workflow efficiencies, and leverage new tech like AI to enhance throughput. They will streamline scheduling, maintain compliance, and turn data into actionable improvements – keeping your MRI and CT centers running at peak performance even amid labor and cost pressures.

Common searches

Vice President of Imaging Operations: Executive leader to scale and integrate multi-site radiology services. Drives strategy and P&L.

Director of Radiology Services: Operational head of a hospital radiology department. Balances clinical quality with efficiency.

Imaging Center Manager: On-the-ground leader of an outpatient imaging facility. Manages scheduling, patient experience, and staffing.

Chief Radiologic Technologist: Leads technical teams and ensures equipment compliance.

Technical Specialists: MRI Technologists, CT Technologists, Mammography Technologists.