Radiology professionals use several types of imaging techniques, including X-rays.
Radiology is a wide field encompassing a variety of careers. Doctors and technicians who work in radiology can specialize in a number of fields and work in a number of different types of health facilities. Those trained to read diagnostic images can even work from home in some cases.
Job Descriptions
Doctors and technicians working in radiology are trained to use imaging technology and to read its results. They also often conduct "image-based interventions like endoscopic stenting or occulsion of neurovasculature (brain blood vessels) and CT-guided biopsies," according to the MomMD website. Some of the specific fields and occupations in radiology include nursing, dosimetery (studying the effects of treatment at the tissue and cellular level), oncology, physicist, echo cardiography. Those working in oncology may administer and monitor radiation treatment for cancer patients. Others may work with imaging of the heart.
Radiology professionals work with computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray, ultrasound and other technologies used in diagnostic imaging.
Job Outlook
The outlook for jobs in radiology is good in general. Radiology technician and technologists can expect opportunities in their profession to grow by 17 percent from 2008 to 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2008, which is faster than average.
Employers
Hospitals will likely continue to be the largest employer of radiology professionals. However, doctors' offices and independent imaging centers will supply more and more jobs as the focus of healthcare moves to outpatient services.
Factors
As the country's population ages, the need for radiology professionals increases. In addition, insurance companies find that imaging reduces the costs of treatment of many illnesses when it is used early in the illness' course. So, insurance companies are more likely to pay for medical imaging services, creating more jobs. Some local economies are full of radiologists, and those that are willing to relocate can find more opportunities. In addition, those trained in multiple imaging technologies can find more jobs.
Those leaving the field due to career change or retirement create jobs for radiology professionals. Those that have found positions as sales representatives for imaging companies or who are trainers and program directors in the educational field also make room for new employees in the field.
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