Radiology is a medical specialty that uses X-rays or ultrasound to obtain images of a part of the body or organs (radiography, ultrasound, scanner, MRI). What is the role of the radiologist? How is a session going? What training to become a radiologist?
radiology East a medical specialty that uses imaging techniques to diagnose or treat disease. Initially limited to X-ray radiography, it gradually developed with theuse of ultrasound in echography, X-rays in scanners and the magnetic field in MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging). These different techniques make it possible to obtain precise images of certain regions of the body (limb, organ, etc.) which react differently to the passage of radiation. In recent years, the development of digital media has made it possible to obtain increasingly precise images.
Definition: what is a radiologist?
A radiologist is a doctor who specializes in radiology. Il performs X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans and MRIs. He can also practice interventional radiology techniques such as angioplasty, which consists of performing invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures under radiological supervision. He is generally assisted by a radiology technician. The radiologist can practice in the hospital in a radiology department Or in liberal, most often in a radiology practice that brings together several radiologists. Some radiologists focus on a single imaging or interventional radiology technique.
What is the role of a radiologist?
Its role is to perform imaging tests and interpret results in the form of images of organs or body parts. He is most often requested by the attending physician or another specialist doctor or surgeon such as an orthopedist, a gastroenterologist, a pulmonologist, a rheumatologist, for example.
When to consult a radiologist?
A radiologist is usually consulted when a complementary examination is necessary to make a diagnosis or treat a pathology. This can be, for example, in the case of bone fracture or displacement, digestive symptoms such as abdominal pain or leg swelling. He can perform imaging examinations on the whole body, whether it is the head, the limbs, the trunk or the abdomen.
A consultation with a radiologist usually begins with the imaging examination which is explained to the patient. Once the examination is complete, the radiologist takes the time to interpret what he sees and write a report which will then be explained to the person and then sent to the doctor who requested the examination.
Depending on the imaging exam, preparation may be required : come on an empty stomach, avoid wearing jewelry, do an enema… In addition to bringing your prescription for the imaging examination and all the documents that can provide information on the state of health, you should always ask before the examination if any special preparation is necessary.
The consultation of the radiologist is on average 28 €
How much does a consultation with a radiologist cost?
The price of a consultation with a radiologist varies depending on the examination. An ultrasound costs on average 100 €, when an x-ray varies between 25 and 70 € and an MRI between 80 and 250 €. The consultation of the radiologist is on average 28 €. The consultation with a radiologist is not directly accessible in the Health Insurance care pathway. Must therefore go through your doctor or another specialist to obtain a prescription (except emergency context). The CPAM then reimburses 70% of the costs and the mutual insurance company generally covers the rest. Without a prescription, the reimbursement of the CPAM is only 30% of the price of the examination, or even less.
What is the training to become a radiologist?
To become a radiologist, you have to start with medical studies: the Paces competition (first year common to health studies), then 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th years of medicine. After the end of 6th year exam, it is possible to apply for a specialty. The radiology specialty then requires training in 4 or 5 years which includes a large number of internships in hospital services. After the DES (diploma of specialized studies) and a thesis defense in front of a jury, the applicant obtains the State diploma of doctor of medicine and can practice radiology.
What is the difference between radiologist and radiologist?
Be careful not to confuse the profession of radiologist with the profession of manipulator in medical radiology. The latter, in direct contact with the public, carries out the examinations and manages the radiology equipment but is not a doctor. He therefore does not wear no diagnosis of the patient’s situation.