Is a Radiologist a Doctor?

Your radiologist is a medical professional who focuses on diagnosing and managing various health conditions through the use of imaging techniques such as x-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, positron emission tomography (PET), and ultrasound. Some of these methods involve radiation, necessitating specialized training in radiation safety and protection. Typically, a radiology technologist operates the equipment that captures your images, while the radiologist is the physician who analyzes these images and interprets their findings.

A radiologist is a physician who has undergone a minimum of four years of specialized training in radiology. Many radiologists pursue an additional 1-2 years of fellowship training to gain expertise in specific areas of radiology or interventional radiology. They possess a deep understanding of various imaging studies and are adept at determining the optimal imaging techniques to ensure high-quality results. Although patients may not interact directly with their radiologist, these professionals play an essential role in the healthcare team.

Your Radiologist is Essential to Your Healthcare by:

• Serving as a specialized consultant to your referring physician—the doctor who directed you to the radiology department or clinic for diagnostic testing—by assisting in selecting the appropriate examination, interpreting the resulting medical images, and utilizing test outcomes to guide your treatment. Radiologists are crucial in healthcare, as the interpretation of medical imaging often leads to significant diagnoses.
• Administering treatments for diseases through minimally invasive, image-guided therapeutic interventions, typically performed by a specialized radiologist known as an interventional radiologist.
• Linking findings from medical images with results from other examinations and tests.
• Suggesting additional relevant examinations or treatments when necessary and collaborating with referring physicians.
• Overseeing radiologic technologists (the personnel responsible for operating the imaging equipment) to ensure the accurate execution of quality examinations.

Your Radiologist Possesses the Necessary Training, Knowledge, and Experience

When your referring doctors mention that they have reviewed your studies, they are typically referring to the report generated by the radiologist or discussing the imaging examination with your radiologist.

Radiologists are leaders in imaging technology, advancing the use of CT, MRI, PET, and fusion imaging, as well as performing minimally invasive procedures such as endovascular treatments for aneurysms and tumors, percutaneous biopsies, and radiation therapy.

Radiologists who are board certified by the American Board of Radiology (for medical doctors) or the American Osteopathic Board of Radiology (for osteopathic doctors) represent the highest level of training and exhibit excellence in their field.