Radiologists are doctors who interpret x-rays and other medical images. They also treat disease with radiation.

Medical imaging allows doctors to diagnose problems more quickly and accurately using less invasive treatments. Radiologists use a variety of techniques for diagnosing diseases and injuries, including:

• X-ray
• Computed tomography (CT) scans
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Position emission tomography (PET)
• Ultrasound

Radiologists supervise radiologic technicians who take the images requested by a patient's doctor or health care provider. Radiologists make sure images are of high quality and that all safety procedures are followed. After the images and tests are complete, they interpret the images.

Radiologists do not usually talk with patients. Instead they confer with the doctor who ordered the tests and images. Based on their findings, radiologists may recommend further exams or treatments to the doctor.

Radiologists may specialize in one area of medical imaging, such as:

• Cardiovascular (heart and lungs)
• Musculoskeletal (muscle and bone)
• Body imaging
• Brain imaging
• Pediatric radiology

With two years of additional training, radiologists can also specialize in interventional radiology which uses radiation or minimally invasive procedures to treat diseases. This area also includes image-guided surgery. In this area, radiologists work directly with patients.