A radiologist is a specialist doctor trained in radiology. Radiology can be defined as the branch of medicine that makes use of imaging of the human body to diagnose and treat diseases.
On a day to day basis, a radiologist will make use of imaging equipment such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), X-ray, ultrasound and positron emission tomography (PET).
A radiologist is also trained in nuclear medicine. It is important to note however that while the radiologist is trained in the use of imaging equipment, more often than not it is the responsibility of a radiologist technician to actually work the machines.
A radiologist technician is also known as a radiographer. The radiologist will normally come in to interpret the images produced by the technician.
A radiologist is a medical doctor. He will typically have undergone a pre-med course which is usually four years, followed by four years of medical school and then a five year radiology residency.
Radiologist Salary Range
Due to the length of study it requires, like many specialty medical degrees, the radiologist salary is relatively high. The radiologist salary will range widely depending on several factors. The range can be from $50,000 to $500,000.
A major factor that affects the salary of a radiologist is the number of years of experience. Fresh graduates will earn the lowest salary and radiologists with more than 10 years experience will command salaries of up to $350,000 per annum. Radiologists progressively earn higher salaries every year.
The radiologist salary will also depend on his specialization. There are several sub-specializations within radiology which include interventional radiology, interventional neuroradiology, neuroradiology, pediatric radiology and nuclear medicine.
Acquiring a sub-specialization entails a further 2 year fellowship after the five year radiology residency. Radiologists with further specializations will typically earn higher salaries.
Location – A Big Factor In Determining Radiologist Salary
The radiologist’s employer will also affect the salary. Radiologists work in hospitals, private doctors’ offices, radiology service providers or work as freelancers or as academic radiologists.
The lowest paying employer is said to be hospitals while the highest paying are radiology service providers.
Like for most professions, location will also affect the salary level. Some states will generally pay more than others.
More often than not, salary levels will be affected by the standard of living in the particular state, the demand for radiologists in the state and the number of employers in the state.
Besides your radiologist salary, you can expect to receive other benefits such as bonuses, commissions and profit shares.
