Radiologist
A radiologist is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing and treating diseases through radiologic technology, utilizing procedures such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and PET scans to examine patients for various internal conditions. They play a crucial role in identifying issues like tumors or fractures by interpreting medical images and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to determine treatment plans. Radiologists typically work in hospitals or private medical offices, often enjoying flexible schedules due to the ability to interpret images remotely.
The occupation requires a strong attention to detail, excellent analytical skills, and a thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology. Radiologists may specialize in various fields, such as nuclear radiology or emergency radiology, and are involved in direct patient interactions, particularly when performing interventional radiology. Education pathways include obtaining a bachelor’s degree, completing medical school, and undergoing extensive residency training. With a median annual salary of approximately $329,080, the job outlook remains steady, with a projected growth rate of around 3% in the coming years.
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Subject Terms
Radiologist
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Health Science
Interests: Anatomy, physiology, biology, medicine, chemistry
Earnings (Yearly Median): $329,080 per year, or $158.21 per hour (2023)
Employment & Outlook: 3 percent (As fast as average)
Entry-Level Education Doctoral or professional degree
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job-Training Internship/residency
Overview
Sphere of Work. Radiologists are medical doctors who assess, diagnose, and treat diseases and other physical problems by means of radiologic technology. They use X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, positron emission tomography (PET) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologies, and other radiologic procedures to scan patients for tumors, broken bones, and other internal issues. Based on the images revealed, radiologists determine the causes of symptoms and consult with other physicians on the best course of treatment.
Work Environment. Radiologists work primarily in busy medical environments. Most work in hospitals, while others work in private medical offices or clinics. Because scanning images can be read from virtually any location at any time, radiologists can maintain flexible schedules, and some are able to work offsite, conferring with other physicians through email and hospital communications systems. Medical facilities have strict protocols regarding patient and staff safety, but there is still a risk of exposure to blood and other bodily fluids, and some patients may be panicked or difficult while undergoing radiologic scans.
Occupation Interest. Radiologists must be inquisitive and extraordinarily attentive to detail, with exceptional vision and analytical skills, and a thorough knowledge of anatomy and physiology. Prospective radiologists should have an aptitude for computers and machinery. They should also excel at communication and teamwork, as they must often collaborate with other physicians regarding a patient’s condition.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Radiologists may meet with patients before an X-ray, mammogram, ultrasound, CT scan, PET scan, or MRI to explain the procedure. They may also ask about the patients’ medical histories and symptoms so they can better understand any unusual images in the scans. In the case of fluoroscopic and other X-ray procedures, radiologists administer radiopaque substances (such as barium) by mouth, injection, or enema in order to better view soft tissues, internal organs, and physiological systems. Protective lead sheets or vests are used to protect patients from harmful radiation to body areas that are not being scanned. Radiologists and radiologic technologists may work together to properly position the device being used and complete the scan. In many institutions, a radiologic technologist gathers the patient information and performs the scans, leaving the radiologist free to concentrate on diagnosis and treatment plans. Interventional radiologists, on the other hand, use radiological techniques to treat patients’ conditions, so they interact with the patients directly and operate the scanning equipment themselves.
Once the images are taken, radiologists develop and analyze them to locate signs of disease, broken bones, hemorrhages, or any other physiological issues. Radiologists frequently consult with other physicians, including the patient’s primary care physician, to determine the patient’s condition and the best way to initiate treatment. They are also responsible for keeping records of the procedures performed and their outcomes. They may oversee a technologist’s activities and monitor procedures if they do not perform these tasks themselves.
Many radiologists specialize in certain types of scans, patient populations, or conditions. For example, some radiologists specialize in nuclear radiology, using PET scans and gamma imaging for diagnosis and treatment. Others work primarily with children or women. Some radiologists focus on radiation oncology (using radioactive materials to detect and treat cancer), while others specialize in emergency radiology, in which they work with trauma patients.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) included radiologists among the listing for physicians and surgeons in its Occupational Outlook Handbook in 2024. The BLS listed salaries for all physicians and surgeons as starting at $239,200 and moving upward. However, the magazine Radiology Business listed radiologist among the six highest-paid professions in the United States in 2023, with an annual average salary of $329,080.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Radiologists work in hospitals and medical offices. These environments are extremely clean, well-lit, well-ventilated, and highly-organized. Radiologists must be on their feet while scanning is taking place, and the work involved can cause psychological stress, as any mistakes in reading patient images may be disastrous.
Human Environment. In addition to patients and their families, radiologists interact and work with many different personnel. Among these professionals are other physicians, radiologic technologists, students, medical assistants, nurses, hospital administrators, emergency medical technicians, and medical equipment manufacturers.
Technological Environment. Depending on their area of specialty, radiologists use a number of different types of patient scanning technologies, which may include MRIs, CT scans, X-ray machines, PET scans and other forms of nuclear radiology, ultrasound and mammography, and angiograms. Radiologists must also use computer programs, such as patient information and medical reference databases, high-resolution photo imaging software, and basic office suites.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students should study biology, chemistry, anatomy, physics, physiology, and other natural sciences. Math courses such as calculus, algebra, and geometry are also essential. English courses will help students hone their communication skills, and classes in psychology, child development, and health can aid them in developing a positive bedside manner. Volunteer work in local medical centers or hospitals will provide familiarity with the health care field.
Postsecondary. Radiologists must first obtain a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or some related field with a premedical focus, then pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and attend an accredited four-year medical school program. Medical schools offer hands-on clinical experience as well as classroom and laboratory instruction. Thereafter, aspiring radiologists must complete a minimum of four years of radiology residency training. Those who wish to specialize in a radiology subfield should pursue a one- or two-year fellowship after their residency.
Related Occupations
− Surgeon
Bibliography
“Physicians and Surgeons.” Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 8 Sept. 2023, www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physicians-and-surgeons.htm. Accessed 8 Sept. 2023.
Stempniak, Marty. " Radiologist Among the 6 Highest-Paying Jobs in America." Radiology Business, 1 May 2023, radiologybusiness.com/topics/healthcare-management/healthcare-economics/highest-paying-jobs-american-radiologist. Accessed 23 Aug. 2024.
"What Is a Radiologist?" American College of Radiology, www.acr.org/Practice-Management-Quality-Informatics/Practice-Toolkit/Patient-Resources/About-Radiology. Accessed 23 Aug. 2024.