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Musculoskeletal Radiologist - Career Profile |
Career OverviewA musculoskeletal radiologist is a physician that has gone on to train as a radiologist and specialized in the musculoskeletal system. They use magnetic resonance imagining or an MRI, which uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves in order to get detailed images of internal tissues and organs.
The most frequently imaged parts of the body are the shoulder, spine and knee but they are able to study the hips, wrists and other joints in the body. A musculoskeletal radiologist is trained in all aspects of radiology and has an in-depth and broad understanding of the fundamentals of musculoskeletal imaging.
A musculoskeletal radiologist uses scanning devices, x-rays, radioactive substances and other devices for diagnostic analysis and treatments. They are involved with clinical imaging and therapy that includes the shoulders, spine, neck and other joints. With the advanced technology available to them today, they are able to detect diseases, injuries and disorders that they were unable to in the past.
The musculoskeletal radiologist, who is experienced in magnetic resonance imaging and other radiology exams, interprets the results of the images. The musculoskeletal radiologist then sends a report to the patient’s personal physician or the physician who ordered the testing.
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Career RequirementsThe strenuous and long years of training for physicians and the additional years needed in specialty training make this among the most demanding of occupations. Entry into a medical school is extremely competitive requiring top grades.
The minimum requirements are three years of college to enter into medical school, with a bachelors or advanced degree. Next are medical school for four years and five or more years in radiology and musculoskeletal radiology to become a musculoskeletal radiologist.
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Job OutlookGrowing faster than many other jobs, it is predicted that the employment of musculoskeletal radiologists and other physician occupations will continue to increase from 2006 until 2014 due to the aging population and expanding healthcare fields. With the new technology, diagnostic tests and therapies available today, people expect and demand more advanced levels of healthcare.
There is always a need for healthcare specialists in low-income and rural geographic areas creating more jobs and forcing medical schools and facilities to expand their programs and residencies. Because this is a slow process, many musculoskeletal radiologists may choose to delay retirement or increase their hours of work.
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Career TrackMost musculoskeletal radiologists begin their career by working in community hospitals for several years to gain knowledge, experience and skills. They have many career advancement options and changes available to them.
For musculoskeletal radiologists that choose to remain in the hospital they could go on to head up treatment teams, become staff members or enter into a management position.
Some practice in medical settings such as university hospitals, start a private practice or become educators in universities, colleges or privately. In addition, some musculoskeletal radiologists choose to enter into research-based careers themselves or for laboratories.
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CompensationMusculoskeletal radiologists are highly trained professionals that provide very necessary and invaluable services. Depending on their experience, location and other considerations, their wages range annually from approximately $300,000 to over $400,000.
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