A radiology specialist is a doctor who uses his knowledge of radioactive substances and treatments to diagnose and treat a wide range of diseases and medical conditions, including cancerous tumors, broken bones, and brain abnormalities. These medical professionals use a variety of specialized equipment to perform ultrasound procedures, X-rays, computed axial tomography (CAT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Radiology technicians are frequently supervised by specialists when operating diagnostic and treatment equipment.
X-rays and CAT scans are the most common radioactive medical procedures. These radioactive machines and their images, along with other diagnostic tools, are used by specialists and other physicians and medical professionals to examine organs and internal body parts for growths and other abnormalities. He injects radiopaque substances into patients or administers them orally or through enemas on a regular basis to allow him to see internal organs and structures clearly.
Following the diagnosis, the radiology specialist may use radioactive materials to treat the patient. Malignant internal and external tumors and growths are among the most commonly treated abnormalities. External sources of radiation or similar substances implanted in the body area containing the growth are usually used to treat them. The results of these treatments are usually shared with physicians by radiology specialists.
A radiology specialist assists with fluoroscopy procedures of the digestive system on a regular basis, in addition to X-rays and CAT scans. He may also perform bone surveys and soft tissue radiographic exams. Radiographic, prenatal, and pediatric examinations of the nervous, respiratory, and vascular systems are among his other responsibilities. A radiology specialist’s responsibilities also include locating foreign bodies and performing body section radiography procedures.
Because it is often more practical to move equipment than it is to move patients, a radiology specialist uses both fixed and portable equipment in his job. He makes sure that patients aren’t exposed to excessive amounts of radiation. It is common for the specialist to be asked to repeat procedures that result in ambiguous images. He is also usually expected to keep the equipment he uses in good working order by performing routine maintenance.
A radiology specialist traditionally keeps daily ledgers of activities in addition to testing and interacting with patients. In most cases, he is also expected to keep patient records, which may include radiographic files. A radiology specialist’s job often entails ensuring that doctors and staff members receive radiographic reports on time.
In most cases, radiology specialists work in hospitals. Others work in physician offices or clinics on a regular basis. A large number of radiology specialists work on mobile units that provide services in areas where full-service medical facilities are not available. Education requirements differ depending on the region or country. In most cases, prospective radiologists must complete a certification program; in others, associate’s or bachelor’s degrees may be required. Specific radiology safety licensure is also required in some areas.