Radiologist Job Description

Of the many professions that are related to the field of health care, Radiologist is one of them. This is more of a technical profession as they make use of x-ray or radiation technology to look for illness in the body, and they also make use of these technologies to treat the patient. A lot may not be known about this profession; hence, read the radiologist job description we have provided.

The radiologists work closely with doctors and take x-rays according to the instructions of the doctors. They take x-rays of the afflicted area to diagnose the problem. However, they have to be careful as exposure to radiation can create other complications like cancer. Hence, the radiologists have to cover all the other parts of the patients with aluminum plates which protect from radiation. The photos taken later are washed and developed. They show what is wrong and the radiologists make reports accordingly.

They also use radiation for treatment. The best example is the treatment of cancer. The afflicted part is given radiation in a controlled environment. The dosage is decided by the doctor and radiologist in consultation with each other. Then the specific amount of radiation is given. Another way of treatment is the insertion of radioisotopes. These isotopes are monitored by the radiologists.

The radiologist needs to be extremely efficient with technology. They work mostly with technology and hence, should know all the latest developments in technology and medical equipment. Radiologists also know how to use other equipment like MRIs and CT scans. These equipments have replaced old x-ray machines and these are more comfortable methods of taking scans of the patient.

The radiologists don't really get to interact with patient, but they have to work with other experts and doctors. Hence, they should be good team players as the life of a patient is in question. If interested in knowing about this, read the radiologist job description given in bulleted format which also carries their educational requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Radiologist

They have to take x-rays of the patients that are sent to them by the doctor
They have to ensure the complete safety of the patient and themselves when they are taking the x-rays as exposure to radiation is extremely harmful
They have to make reports based on the x-rays for the patient and the doctor
They should know how to use MRI and CT Scan machines also as they are being used more
They should be able to use all the latest technology machines
For the patients in whom they have inserted radioisotopes, they have to monitor them carefully and see the developments in them
For patients receiving radiation from them, they have to give doses according to their doctors and have to remain in consultation with them
They have to coordinate with other specialists as well

The Radiologists make a good living, and the plus side of this profession is they have more spare time than other medicine related technician.

Education Required in Becoming a Radiologist

A bachelor's degree is required a Radiology course which takes up to four years
They need to clear the Licensure exam before beginning work
Another license is required from the state they are working in

Career Advancement

The radiologist become heads of department of the hospitals they work for, or they become teacher of radiology in the places where this course is available.

The radiologist job description is to make use of radiation technology to diagnose and treat patients. However, they themselves have to be careful as overexposure to radiation is harmful. Though, they make good money, they are doing the society a lot of good by helping people fight against diseases like cancer.