What does a Radiologist do?
Radiologists are medical doctors who specialize in the capture, processing, and interpretation of a patient’s medical images, including an X-ray, CAT scan, ultrasound, or an MRI. They perform diagnostic imaging exams on patients and create diagnostic images to assist physicians and other medical professionals with the diagnosis and treatment of a patient’s illness or injury.
Radiologists ensure the quality of the images taken through their interaction with lab technicians. They guide and instruct patients about the images and how they are taken. They consult with patients about their options and discuss imaging results with patients. Radiologists also communicate their interpretations of the images, and discuss their findings with other specialists or physicians. When needed, they are also called upon to conduct other procedures including catheter placement or biliary drainage and to assist in emergency situations including infection or resuscitation. Radiologists have completed undergraduate studies and four years of medical school followed by four years of radiology residency.
- Assist with care and maintenance of department equipment and supplies.
- Ensure proper charging of all procedures, coding, and modifiers are correct.
- Plan and schedule work for the section or department.
- Analyze records, reports and test results to diagnose patient's medical condition.
- Follow standards for routine diagnostic exams, positioning, patient care and documentation as prescribed in the procedure manual established by the imaging department.
- Provide direct customer and/or clerical/administrative support to the department as assigned.
- Coordinate with community leadership to ensure consistency of operations, quality and safety.
- Develop, interpret and applies departmental policies as they relate to the daily operations of the respective areas.
- Make recommendation in strategic planning and assists in determine departmental goals and objectives.
- Implement safety standards and perform appropriate QC procedures on equipment.
- Maintain accreditation status with all applicable organizations and ensures that all federal, state, and local guidelines are followed to ensure compliance with such regulations.
- Maintain appropriate records of examinations on a consistent basis.
- Practice radiation safety techniques and is responsible for marking and labeling films correctly.
- Maintain all HIPAA regulations and policies regarding patient information.
- Associate's Degree in radiology or a scientific discipline.
- Strong leadership abilities.
- Excellent writing and communication skills.
- Must be able to make decisions confidently and quickly.
- Comfortable handling stents and injectors.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Gmail, and backup and recovery tools.
How much does a Radiologist make?
Radiologist Career Path
Learn how to become a Radiologist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Radiologist Insights
Homerton University Hospital“White females given the brunt of the good work and the scraps are given to everybody else.”
McGill University Health Centre“Great teaching for everyone involved”
Radiology Partners“great partners to work with”
Riverside Health System“Not much room to advance in career”
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire“good salary comparing to others french university hospitals”
CUF“No bonus based on production”
HCA Healthcare“Lower pay compared to market.”
Ace Hardware“I get paid and get to work with people”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Radiologist
When working as a Radiologist, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Archiving, VMWare esx, Excellent Communication, BLS Certification, and SAP MDG.
- CT Technologist
- MRI Technologist
- Radiologic Technologist
- Applications Specialist
The most common qualifications to become a Radiologist include a minimum of a Associate's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 years of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.