Medical doctors use diagnostic machines and procedures to assess and treat their patients.They read the results of the scans they did.Many radiologists interact with patients and their team of doctors.If you want to become a radiologist, you need to go to med school, pass all the exams, and complete your residency.
Step 1: Take classes to get ready for high school.
It's not too late to start thinking about your career.If you want to become a radiologist, you need to take classes in high school.You can get ahead by taking science and math classes.If possible, take AP and upper level courses.A high grade point average will help you get into a good program.Try psychology classes to learn more about people.You can use humanities courses to improve your communication skills.During high school, you can volunteer at health clinics or nursing homes.
Step 2: You can get a pre-med or science degree.
If you want to become a radiologist, what you do as an undergrad is very important.You can start working towards that goal by taking classes.You should complete your degree in a science field.It's important to choose a college that is accredited.If you want to go to med school, you need to research which schools will help you.Medical school is very competitive, so focus on getting a high grade point average.To be accepted into med school, you need to earn honors, complete difficult research projects, and earn awards.
Step 3: Do you want to volunteer or apply for an internship?
If you want to apply to medical school, volunteering and internship opportunities are great ways to get hands on experience.Try to volunteer at health clinics.You might want to look into nursing homes as well.You might want to apply for a medical internship.Discuss opportunities with your professors, advisors, or local healthcare professionals.
Step 4: Attend medical school.
You can apply to medical programs after passing the MCAT.You can either take one of the two paths.You can get a doctor of osteopathic medicine if you have a medical degree.Med school lasts four years.You will get hands on experience working with health care professionals when you do clinicals after completing medical school.
Step 5: Take the Medical College Admissions Test.
It is necessary to take the MCAT to get into med school.It's given over four and a half hours in a multiple choice format.If you score well on this test, you will be more likely to be accepted to med schools.The cost of the MCAT is between $300 and $400.The Association of American Medical Colleges can help you with the cost of the exam if you are from a lower income background.Critical analysis and problem solving will be part of the test.MCAT scores are required for most med schools.
Step 6: If you pass the licensing exams, you can get a job.
Near the end of medical school, take some tough exams that will set you up for graduation and your career.You will be able to compete for residencies with the scores.If you are getting an MD or DO, you should take the test.Most radiologists in the US take the United States Medical Licensing Exam.The USMLE requires you to complete three steps.Most medical doctors take this exam.The Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Exam is given by some schools.This is for people who get a doctor of osteopathic medicine.
Step 7: You should apply for a license to practice medicine.
You need to apply for a license once you decide where you want to practice.If you want to get a license, you may have to take an additional exam.These exams can be written or clinical.
Step 8: If you want to apply for the certifications, you have to do it.
It is possible to become certified by a professional organization.Many radiologists take written and oral tests to be certified by a professional group.In the US, you can take exams through the American Board of Radiology.You will be put in touch with professional associates if you get certified through a professional organization.
Step 9: An internship is a great way to start.
After graduating from medical school, you will do a clinical internship.During the first year of your residency, you will complete this.General medicine or surgery will be practiced during this time.
Step 10: It's time to finish your residency.
Four years in a residency is required to become a radiologist.This can be done through a teaching hospital with residencies in diagnostic radiology and radiation oncology.You will be watched by a doctor.You will learn about different techniques.During this time, you will be paid.
Step 11: If you want to become a specialist, you should apply for a fellowship.
After finishing your residency, you may want to apply for a fellowship.If you want to specialize in the image of a body part, a group or a disease, choose this path.This takes a couple of years to complete.If you want to focus only on cancer, you can do a fellowship.If you want to work with children or elderly, you can do this.
Step 12: As a doctor, you can practice medicine at a hospital or clinic.
Most radiologists have a staff of technicians and other licensed professionals.Some join a group of doctors while others open their own practices.At the beginning of their career, most doctors join other doctors.After a few years of working, you may want to open your own practice.You can look for jobs through professional organizations.