Health Home > Other Topics > Radiologist

Radiologist

Healthwise
By Jeannette Curtis; Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS

Radiologists are medical doctors who specialize in performing and interpreting diagnostic imaging tests. They read X-rays and scans, such as chest X-rays, ultrasounds, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Another specialist or primary care doctor may base treatment decisions on findings reported by the radiologist. Radiologists may also supervise people who perform special tests, such as barium enemas or computed tomography (CT) scans.

Radiologists can be board-certified through the Board of Radiology, which is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Author:Jeannette Curtis
Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Medical Review:
Last Updated: 05/25/2007