Radiologist

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Work Tasks

• Use x-rays and radioactive objects to diagnose and treat diseases
• Treat abnormal growths in the body with radiation, high energy sources, and radioisotopes
• Give patients substances (called radiopaques) so they can see parts inside the body on x-ray films or fluoroscopic screens
• Work for clinics, HMOs, hospitals, the government, the Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals, the Department of Health and Human Services, and private practice
• Work with patients and their records, lab test results, imaging equipment, x-rays, radioactive substances, radioisotopes, radiopaque substances, x-ray films, and fluoroscopic screens

Salary, Size & Growth

• $297,500 average per year ($143.00 per hour)
• A medium occupation (97,800 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow rapidly (2.2% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 4-year degree, plus graduation from an accredited medical school, passing a licensing exam, and completing at least four years of graduate medical education (residency).
• Employers Prefer: A sub-specialty in a field such as nuclear medicine, pediatric radiology, radiation oncology, radiobiology, neuroradiology, or diagnostic radiology
• Skills/Courses: College courses include radiology and related medical subjects, as well as clinical work and research.
• Certification/Licensing: All states require physicians to be licensed.