Radiology specialists use radioactive substances and equipment to diagnose and treat medical conditions such as tumors and broken bones. They perform X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and other procedures, and may administer treatments involving radioactive materials. They also keep patient records and maintain equipment. Radiology specialists work in hospitals, clinics, and mobile units, and education requirements vary by region.
A radiology specialist is a medical professional who uses his knowledge of radioactive substances and treatments to test, diagnose and treat many medical diseases and conditions, such as cancerous tumors, broken bones and brain abnormalities. These medical specialists usually perform ultrasound, X-ray, computerized axial tomography (CAT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures using a wide range of specialized equipment. Specialists also generally supervise radiology technicians in the operation of diagnostic and treatment equipment.
The most common radioactive medical procedures are X-rays and CT scans. The specialist and other doctors and medical professionals use these radioactive machines and their images in conjunction with other diagnostic tools to examine organs and internal parts of the body for growths and other abnormalities. He regularly injects patients with radiopaque substances or administers the substances orally or through enemas to allow him to see internal organs and structures clearly.
After diagnosis, the radiology specialist may administer treatments involving radioactive materials. Commonly treated abnormalities include tumors and malignant internal and external growths. These are usually treated by exposure to external sources of radiation or by having similar substances implanted in the area of the body that contains the growth. Radiology specialists typically share updates on the results of these treatments with physicians.
In addition to X-rays and CT scans, a radiology specialist regularly assists with fluoroscopy procedures of the digestive system. He may also perform soft tissue radiographic examinations and bone surveys. Your other responsibilities may include regular radiographic, prenatal and pediatric examinations of the nervous, respiratory and vascular systems. Locating foreign bodies and performing body section radiography procedures are also common tasks of a radiology specialist.
A radiology specialist uses stationary and portable equipment in his work, as it is often more practical to move the equipment than the patient. He takes care to ensure that patients are not exposed to unnecessary doses of radiation. Generally, the specialist is expected to repeat procedures that produce unclear images. Typically, he is also required to keep used equipment in good condition through regularly scheduled maintenance.
In addition to testing and interacting with patients, a radiology specialist traditionally keeps daily activity logs. He is also normally required to maintain patient records, including radiographic files. Ensuring physicians and staff have radiographic reports in a timely manner is a frequent job requirement for a radiology specialist.
Radiology specialists typically work in hospitals. Others are routinely employed in doctors’ offices or clinics. A significant number of radiology specialists work in mobile units that provide services in communities that lack full-service medical facilities. Depending on the region or country, education requirements vary. Most areas require prospective radiologists to complete a certification program; others may require associate’s or bachelor’s degrees. Some regions also require a specific radiological safety license.
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