Q:  What is an MRI?

A:  MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. The MRI creates images of body areas by reading magnetic fields within the body. High-powered magnetic fields resonate with the natural magnetic fields in the body. Different body substances resonate differently, and the computer detects those differences, interprets them, and creates an image based on those differences. The MRI is an especially useful tool in identifying diseases of the brain and spine. Because it does not use x-rays, it is considered safer than a CT or conventional x-ray exam.


Q.  What is an X-Ray?

A:  X-rays are radiation that are part of the electromagnetic spectum in the highest frequency range. Because of their high frequency and short wavelength, X-rays can pass through solid objects. In common usage, the term "X-ray" refers to a diagnostic image produced by momentarily passing X-ray radiation though a part of the body to expose photographic film. This creates an image based on the absorption of the X-ray radiation by body parts having different densities and the resulting differences in film exposure.


Q:  What kind of training is required to be a radiologist?

A:  All radiologists require a medical degree from an accredited school of medicine. This is achieved after pre-med training in a regular four-year college, followed by four years of doctorate training at a school of medicine. The schools of medicine are very competitive and will only admit students who have scored high on their MCATs (aptitude tests for pre-med students), as well as achieved high grades in school. Competitive medical schools also look for additional involvement in medical-related areas such as volunteer or for-pay work for medical organizations.

After receiving their doctorate, the new doctors then serve an internship in a practicing hospital for one year, followed by specialty residency where they serve another four years in a hospital learning and practicing their specialty. For those who want to be a radiologist, that specialty is usually Diagnostic Radiology.

Following the residency, a radiologist is then in a position to sub-specialize in areas such as Neuroradiology, Vascular Radiology, Interventional Radiology, Therapeutic Radiology, Nuclear Medicine, Radiation Oncology (the treatment of cancer patients), etc. This optional requirementinvolves completing a fellowship at a hospital for an additional year in that area of study.

In preparation for any field of medicine, classes in chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy, biology, etc., are always helpful. Medicine also requires good communications skills. Even in high school, candidates need to concentrate on getting the very best grades possible and taking all the college prep classes they can, including science and math classes.

 

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