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This question is about radiologist.
Can a radiographer become a radiologist?
Yes, a radiographer can become a radiologist. To become a radiologist, a radiographer needs to complete additional medical training and be certified by a medical board. Keep in mind, however, a radiographer just needs to have a bachelor's degree, in some cases just an associate's. Compare that to the requirements to be a radiologist, which are 13 years of education and training.
While radiography and radiology may sound like identical careers, they are not. Radiographers, also known as radiologic technologists (or rad tech for short) are trained differently and do not have a medical degree. Radiologic technologists support radiologists by actually performing the diagnostic imaging testing procedures ordered by supervising radiologists.
The steps a radiographer must take to become a radiologist include:
Completing a four-year bachelor's degree program in radiology. Most undergraduate programs will provide the foundation of knowledge that is necessary to become a radiologist.
Obtaining a medical doctorate (M.D.) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (D.O.). Several universities offer combined seven-year programs for undergraduate and graduate students interested in specializing in radiologic sciences.
Gain medical experience by completing an internship and residency in a medical institution. This step can take between five and eight years, depending on the specialty.
Become licensed in the state of practice. All states require prospective radiologists to hold a valid license before practicing medicine.
Pass the American Board of Radiology (ABR) exams. Recertification is required every eight to ten years.
Join a professional organization such as the American College of Radiology (ACR), which offers continuing medical education courses and clinical practice guidelines.
Pursue additional education and training in a specialized area of radiologic technology such as nuclear medicine, mammography, or interventional radiology.
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