Health Careers:
Interventional Radiologist

What is an interventional radiologist?

An interventional radiologist is a specially trained doctor who uses X-rays and other imaging techniques to "see" inside a patient while they guide small tools through the body (for example, through blood vessels) to the site of a problem. They do this to treat medical problems without the patient having to go through surgery, which would cost more money, cause more pain, and result in a longer stay in the hospital.

Where does an interventional radiologist work?

An interventional radiologist usually works in a large community hospital or an academic medical center (a hospital with a medical school attached).

What type of education is needed?

Basic entry into radiology (as a radiology technologist) requires 1 to 4 years of schooling. To become an interventional radiologist one must complete 4 years of undergraduate study, 4 years of medical school  and 4 years of a resident program. Then a special exam given by the American Board of Radiology must be taken. Physicians who pass this exam are called board certified radiologists. Once they are board certified, interventional radiologists spend an extra year in an interventional radiology training program, called a fellowship. The resident program and the fellowship are paid training programs.

What is the salary?

An interventional radiologist's average salary in Vermont is $276,874.

How could an interventional radiologist advance?

Doctors who attend an approved program and successfully complete their fellowship training are then able, after one year of practice, to take a special exam for added qualifications (The Vascular and Interventional Radiology CAQ Exam). This exam is given by the American Board of Radiology.

Where can I go for more information?

www.sirweb.org

www.radiology.wisc.edu/divisions/angio/aboutir.php