Radiologist

The Job and What's Involved

A radiologist is a doctor who specialises in interpreting images of the body, such as x-rays and ultrasound scans. The images are used to diagnose diseases and to help other healthcare professionals decide which course of treatment to follow. Advances in technology mean that images of the body can be used early in the diagnostic process, and also to monitor treatment.

Many radiological images are obtained by radiographers, but radiologists supervise the more complex examinations and perform many of the investigations themselves. The work involves a substantial amount of contact with patients who may be suffering from a wide range of conditions.

Radiologists are usually also involved in the management of the radiology department.

Hours of work vary and may include evenings and weekends, to cover a 24-hour service. Radiologists work in hospitals and use a range of highly sophisticated equipment.

Once they begin specialist training, radiologists can earn a basic salary of between £29,000 and £44,000 a year.

Getting Started with this Career Choice

Most radiologists are employed by the National Health Service (NHS). There are also opportunities in the Armed Forces and in private practice. Advances in technology mean that the demand for radiologists is increasing rapidly.

Education and Training

To become a radiologist, it is first necessary to study for a degree in medicine.

Medical degrees normally take five years, although there are accelerated courses available for graduate entrants.

All entrants to medical training need to take an undergraduate course leading to a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, usually referred to as a 'first MB'. The course normally lasts five years. Medical degree courses are offered by a number of medical schools throughout the UK. See the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) website for the full list of courses at www.ucas.com.

Entry is highly competitive. Most candidates have three A levels/five H grades, with high grades, plus supporting GCSE's/S grades (A-C/1-3), or equivalent. Most university medical schools require A level/H grade chemistry, although some accept chemistry at AS level. Some medical schools also require A level/H grade biology.

For candidates without science A levels/H grades, a number of universities offer 'pre-medical courses' in sciences, lasting 30 weeks.

A Few More Exams You Might Need

After completing the medical degree, all doctors now undertake a two-year Foundation programme of general training. Towards the end of the Foundation programme doctors decide whether to train in radiology or another specialty.

New arrangements for specialist training will start in 2007. The length of specialist training will vary, but is expected to last around five to seven years. The Royal Colleges are producing new specialist curricula for approval by the Postgraduate Medical Education and Training Board (PMETB). For further information see www.pmetb.org.uk.

On successful completion, radiologists will be awarded a Certificate of Completion of Training and can apply for posts as consultants.

Skills and Personal Qualities Needed

A radiologist should:

• Be a good team worker.
• Have excellent communication skills.
• Be able to relate well to patients.
• Have management skills.
• Have technical expertise and possess manual dexterity.
• Be interested in the care and well-being of people.