What is it like to be a Radiologist?

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Have you thought about becoming a radiologist or working somewhere close to the profession? Radiologists are specialists in the field of radiology or X-ray, and other radiological diagnostic methods. They are multifaceted, in that they perform life saving procedures, read radiological print outs, and diagnose issues by looking at films and video studies of problems inside the human body.

Training

Radiologists must first complete training to become a physician. First, they will complete a four-year undergraduate training, receiving a bachelor’s degree. Next, they must complete four years of medical school and get their medical degree. Following medical school, there will be four years of residency. And finally, a one-year fellowship in the specialty of radiology has to be accomplished.

During these formative years, the radiologist will define his or her desire for certain types of specialty procedures, perform research studies, and develop his or her character in the profession.

Job Description

For the radiologist, there is not much direct interaction with the patient. Most of the day is spent interpreting images and reading and recording their results, so treating physician can review and plan treatment for the patient. However, if the radiologist is an interventional radiologist, he or she will have more direct contact and communication with the patient.

It is helpful for a skilled radiologist to not only have the skills in the procedure that he or she is performing, but also to be able to communicate well with the patient. Many interventional radiologic procedures are done under local or monitored anesthesia care (MAC). Therefore, the patient is often somewhat aware of what is going on and needs to be able to communicate with the radiologist as well.

The radiologist is quite consultative and corroborative. This will entail working with radiology and surgical techs, and other ancillary and healthcare professionals in order to complete the cycle of diagnostic testing. Oncologists and other physicians will have an excellent working relationship with radiologists, who will often confirm or deny the original diagnosis and reasoning to ask for radiological testing in the first place.

Work Flexibility

With extremely dignified changes in the radiology technology, radiologists no longer have to be present in the hospital or clinic to do their jobs. With modern computer systems, they can now work from home by watching videos and looking at x-rays at home computers. Then, they are able to send reports through elite medical records systems to physicians or other healthcare providers who need to know the information in order to make decisions about treatment of the patient.

The radiologist does have a far more flexible schedule than almost any other physician because of the mobility factor, however, he or she is usually required to take some kind of nighttime or “call” duty. But, this requirement is usually limited and part time.

Salary and Compensation for Radiologists:

Radiology is one of the most lucrative medical specialties a physician can practice. According to the Medical Group Management Association, general diagnostic radiologists earn $470,939 annually, on average. Interventional radiologists, who have completed additional fellowship training, earn $507,508 on average.