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WHAT IS A RADIOLOGIST?

Many patients believe that a Radiologist is a type of technician. Some also believe that when they are referred for an MRI, CT or other form of Diagnostic Imaging, the doctor who sent them (known as the referring doctor) is the one who also makes the diagnosis. This is an easy misunderstanding, as the referring doctor is usually the one who delivers the interpretation of the tests back to the patient.

The truth is, a Radiologist – also considered a Physician’s Physician – is a medical doctor who interprets the tests and creates a concise report, which is then delivered to the patient’s doctor. A Radiologist undergoes many years of intense study; four years of college, four years of medical school, and four years of residency training. If a Radiologist is also subspecialty trained, meaning they chose to focus on specific areas of the body, then they have studied for an additional 1-2 years in a fellowship.

Radiology isn’t just looking at pictures for abnormal findings. A Radiologist’s thorough knowledge of anatomy, combined with years of intense clinical and diagnostic training is what helps he or she determine your diagnosis. Many referring doctors often consult with a radiologist, in addition to receiving an interpretation, to help determine the best plan of treatment. Since the Radiologist works in corroboration with physicians of every specialty, he or she has the advantage of knowing who the best specialists will be to continue your care.

Medical Imaging and Therapeutics (MIT) is a Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology practice with subspecialty trained physicians and Board Certified Radiologists who are experienced in diagnosing a broad spectrum of medical conditions. With a focus on patient safety, our physicians work closely with your referring physician to decide what diagnostic exam is most appropriate, and confer regarding exam results and future care.

At MIT, our focus is delivering excellence one patient at a time.