• Radiologist Job Description

    A radiologist is a specialized medical doctor who uses medical imaging techniques, such as x-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, positron emission tomography (PET) and ultrasound to diagnose and treat diseases and injuries.

    Radiologists are important members of medical teams, as they work with and advice referral doctors on the best imaging techniques to use in diagnosing the medical conditions of patients. They also assist referral doctors in analyzing and interpreting medical images.

    Some radiologists work behind the scene just like the ones mentioned above, as they may not be involved in direct patient care, while others work directly with patients for a number of radiologic procedures such as biopsies, fluoro studies, and interventional cases.

    Pursue a career in radiology if you have aptitude for science, interest in medicine, and the ability to analyze and interpret things, especially images.
  • What does a Radiologist do?

    Radiologists may do some or all of the following:

    • assist doctors in determining the imaging exam best suited for diagnosing and treating a patient’s case
    • use a variety of imaging techniques such as x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT), and many more to diagnose and treat diseases and injuries
    • interpret medical images, make diagnoses and write reports
    • discuss with referral doctors on reports to assist in planning of treatments for patients
    • work closely with radiographers
    • teach and supervise medical students
    • carry out research
  • Where does a Radiologist work?
  • Working Conditions

    Radiologists work in hospitals, clinics and private practices, using x-rays, chemicals and radioactive materials.

    Radiologists who work in hospitals may work rotating shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays, while those who work elsewhere are more likely to work normal office hours.

  • What is Required to Become a Radiologist ?

    To become a radiologist, It will take anywhere from 9-10 years of schooling, as you will need to obtain a bachelor’s degree from a medical school, complete an internship program, and then complete a residency program of up to 4 years in radiology.

  • Modules

    Just to give you an idea, some of the classes that you’ll be taking in college may include:

    • Physics of radiology
    • Medical physics
    • Biostatistics
    • Microbiology
    • Biochemistry
    • Anatomy
    • Pathology
    • Physiology
    • Imaging technique
    • Computed tomography
    • Magnetic resonance and imaging
    • Nuclear medicine imaging
    • Radio diagnosis
    • Radiographic photography
    • Ultrasound imaging
  • Specializations
  • Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

    Radiologists need to have:

    • empathy
    • patience
    • adaptability
    • perseverance
    • accuracy and precision
    • integrity and dependability
    • good attention to detail
    • good vision with and without glasses
    • good listening and communication skills
    • good judgment and decision making skills
    • good observational skills
    • time management and organizational skills
    • analytical and problem-solving skills
    • technical skills
    • the ability to maintain patients confidentiality
    • the ability to work well under pressure
    • the ability to inspire confidence in others
    • the ability to work well in a team
    • the ability to show respect for human life
    • knowledge of anatomy and how the human body works
    • knowledge of medical ethics and law
    • knowledge of medical care
    • knowledge of surgical procedures
    • knowledge of radiographic procedures
    • knowledge of physiology
    • knowledge of pathology
    • knowledge of radiation and treatment
    • knowledge of radiation safety

References

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