If you’ve ever needed to get imaging done at a hospital, you’ve interacted with a radiologist. Radiologists are medical doctors that specialize in both diagnosing and treating illnesses using medical imaging. Imaging can include X-rays, MRIs, PET Scans, CTs, ultrasounds and more. Below we dive into what radiologists do, including different radiology specialties and treatment. 

Schooling

To become a radiologist, doctors go through thirteen years of schooling, including four years of medical school, a four year residency and often a one- to two-year fellowship for specialized training. Fellowships are often required for those who want to go into oncology, pediatric, or interventional radiology. Additionally, radiologists are required to continue their education throughout their careers to maintain their certification. 

Types Of Radiologists

There are three main types of radiologists: radiation, diagnostic and interventional.

Radiation: These highly-trained doctors prescribe and oversee treatment for cancer patients. They use radiation therapy to treat cancer, while also monitoring patient progress and adjusting treatments as needed. Radiation radiologists undergo many facets of training to prepare them for their roles, including extensive cancer medicine education, how to safely use radiation to treat disease, as well as how to manage any and all side effects caused by radiation. 

Diagnostic: This type of radiologist does pretty much what you would expect from their name. They use medical imaging to diagnose a patient’s condition. Acting as a supplement to your referring physician, these doctors perform, interpret and report the results of your scans, and even help your doctor devise the best treatment plan or recommend additional testing if necessary.

Diagnostic radiologists may also specialize in the following: 

• Breast Imaging/Mammograms
• Cardiovascular
• Pediatric
• Head and Neck
• Emergency
• Chest
• Neuroradiology
• Musculoskeletal
• Gastrointestinal
• Genitourinary radiology

Interventional: These doctors diagnose and treat patients with minimally-invasive techniques, such as MRIs and X-rays. After creating minute incisions in the body, they guide tiny instruments to the source of the problem to deliver treatment. Interventional radiologists treat many diseases this way, including, but not limited to:

• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Uterine fibroids
• And more

This technique is beneficial to patients because the procedures pose less risk and require less recovery time than more traditional surgical methods. 

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial Hospital in Humble, TX, our medical staff is experienced in all aspects of radiology–from cancer treatment to diagnostic imaging. We’re conveniently located off of 59N and FM 1960 at the corner of 1960 & Townsen Rd. to ensure you can arrive safely and quickly should you need medical attention. With a 24/7 emergency room and a hospital staff trained in all specialties, we’re here for you when you need us. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.