Radiology involves the use of X-rays and other imaging equipment.
Radiology is the study of images of the human body. Radiology began with X-rays but now includes tools such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound. The primary careers in radiology imaging are radiologists and radiologic technicians and technologists.
Radiologist
A radiologist is a medical doctor who has specialized training in interpreting medical images and providing treatment with radiation. This training usually lasts for five to six years after completion of medical or osteopathic school. Radiologists specialize in diagnostic radiology (medical imaging) or radiation oncology (cancer treatment).
Within diagnostic radiology, a radiologist can choose to specialize in a particular area. Neuroradiology involves disorders of the brain, spine, spinal cord, peripheral nerves and head and neck. Nuclear radiology involves the use of tiny amounts of radioactive material to examine organ function and structure. Pediatric radiologists work with children. Vascular and interventional radiology involves inserting small devices into the body through tiny openings, including techniques such as angioplasty, stent placement and abscess drainage.
Radiologic Technician
Radiologic technicians assist radiologists, primarily by doing X-rays, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. The job title may also be X-ray technician or radiographer. Technicians prepare patients by explaining the procedure, removing jewelry and other items that interfere with X-rays and positioning patients for the X-rays. Radiologic technician training may last from one to four years, leading to a certificate, associate's degree or bachelor's degree. Training includes anatomy, physiology, pathology, medical terminology, radiation physics, radiation protection, principles of imaging and positioning of patients.
Radiologic Technologist
Radiologic technologists also assist radiologists, primarily by performing imaging procedures such as CT, MRI and mammography, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Often, a radiologic technologist will specialize in one particular area. Training is similar to that of a radiologic technician. Sometimes, the two jobs overlap.
Tags: according Occupational, according Occupational Outlook, assist radiologists, assist radiologists primarily, diagnostic radiology, Occupational Outlook
