Health Practitioner Support Technologists and Technicians: $46,580 median salary (2024)
The median health practitioner support technologist and technician earns $46,580 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May 2024 estimates. That works out to roughly $22 per hour. Half of workers in this occupation make between $35,870 and $67,950 — the 10th and 90th percentiles — meaning pay can vary by nearly $32,000 depending on experience, location, and specialty.
How much Health Practitioner Support Technologists and Technicians earn
The nationwide mean wage is $49,440, slightly above the median because higher earners pull the average up. The bottom 10% earn $35,870 or less, while the top 10% earn $67,950 or more. Most workers fall in a broad middle range.
Pay largely depends on the specific job title within this group. For example, medical records specialists (part of this classification) tend toward the lower end, while surgical technologists or diagnostic medical sonographers may reach the upper end. Industry also matters: workers in outpatient care centers average higher pay than those in physician offices or hospitals.
- Median annual wage: $46,580
- Mean annual wage: $49,440
- Hourly mean wage: $22.00 (approx.)
- 10th percentile: $35,870
- 90th percentile: $67,950
Pay by state
State-specific BLS data for this broad occupation are limited in the most recent release. Historically, California, New York, and Massachusetts often pay above the national median due to higher cost of living and stronger healthcare sectors. Lower-wage states like Mississippi, Arkansas, and West Virginia typically fall below the median. However, because the occupation spans many roles, local demand and cost-of-living adjustments can shift rankings year to year. For the latest state-by-state figures, consult the BLS OEWS dataset directly.
How to become Health Practitioner Support Technologist and Technician
Entry requirements vary by specific role, but most positions require at least a postsecondary nondegree award or an associate degree. Many community colleges and technical schools offer 1-2 year programs in fields like medical assisting, surgical technology, or medical records coding.
Certification is common and often expected by employers. For example, the American Association of Medical Assistants offers the CMA credential, and the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting certifies surgical technologists. Some states have specific licensing for certain titles, such as radiologic technologists. On-the-job training is typical for entry-level roles, but certification can boost starting pay and job prospects.
- Complete an accredited training program (usually 1–2 years)
- Earn certification in your specialty (e.g., CMA, CST, RHIT)
- Obtain state license if required (check your state board)
- Apply for entry-level positions; many employers provide additional on-the-job training
Job outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics did not provide a specific growth projection for this occupation from 2024 to 2034 in the latest data. However, overall healthcare support occupations are expected to grow faster than average due to an aging population and increased demand for medical services. The occupation employs 977,800 people, making it one of the larger healthcare support roles. Replacement needs from retirements and turnover should create steady job openings.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for Health Practitioner Support Technologists and Technicians?
The national median annual wage is $46,580, according to BLS May 2024 data. The mean wage is $49,440, or about $22 per hour.
What education do I need to become a Health Practitioner Support Technologist or Technician?
Most roles require at least a postsecondary nondegree award or an associate degree from an accredited program. Certification in your specialty (e.g., medical assistant, surgical tech) is often required by employers.
What is the job outlook for this occupation?
BLS did not publish a specific growth rate for this group from 2024-2034. However, healthcare support roles generally grow faster than average. With 977,800 current jobs, replacement demand should provide opportunities.
Which states pay the highest wages for Health Practitioner Support Technologists and Technicians?
BLS data for this broad category is limited, but states like California, New York, and Massachusetts have historically paid above the national median. Consult the BLS OEWS for the latest state-by-state figures.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Health Practitioner Support Technologists and Technicians data.