A radiologist uses a variety of imaging techniques.
Radiologists are physicians who specialize in creating images of the interior of the human body using radiation. Techniques they utilize include ultrasound, computed tomography (CT scans) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scans). The resultant images are used in diagnosis and to determine treatment for patients.
Salary
According to Payscale, the median annual salary for a radiologist working in the United States is $121,781, as of December 2010. However, the actual salary a radiologist achieves will be dependent upon the nature of his employer, the benefits and bonus package that are appended to his contract and the experience he has accrued over his career. For Instance, Payscale puts the 2010 lowest level of salary for a radiologist starting her career at $47,736 ($66,000 if in private practice), while for those with 10 years experience the figure is $105,555.
Employment
Radiologists are employed by hospitals, natal clinics, specialist surgery centers and other medical establishments. Some also find work in medical research facilities, diagnostic imaging centers and outpatient care institutions. Other radiologists set up their own practices or join a private group practice. Radiology offices pay the best, according to Payscale, with a range of $48,157 to $170,572, as of December 2010. The pay range in hospitals is $44,980 to $152,282.
Educational Requirements
As specialist physicians, radiologists undergo extensive training. After completing a four-year bachelor's degree course, usually in one of the science subjects, they attend medical school for five years. After graduating they must perform general practice for five years before they can specialize. To become a radiologist, the individual must then pursue a four-year diagnostic radiology residency, training in the various imaging procedures in both classroom and clinical situations, at the end of which they sit for written and oral examinations administered by the American Board of Radiology.
Prospects
Opportunities within the professional field of radiology are predicted to rise in the years up to 2018, as technology continues to evolve and requires specialists to apply it to medical cases. The Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that radiologists who master more than one form of imaging -- CT, MRI, mammography -- will secure the best remuneration packages.
Tags: salary radiologist, December 2010, five years
