Radiologists

Obtain patients' histories from electronic records, patient interviews, dictated reports, or by communicating with referring clinicians.

Prepare comprehensive interpretive reports of findings.

Perform or interpret the outcomes of diagnostic imaging procedures including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computer tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), nuclear cardiology treadmill studies, mammography, or ultrasound.

Review or transmit images and information using picture archiving or communications systems.

Communicate examination results or diagnostic information to referring physicians, patients, or families.

Evaluate medical information to determine patients' risk factors, such as allergies to contrast agents, or to make decisions regarding the appropriateness of procedures.

Perform interventional procedures such as image-guided biopsy, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, transhepatic biliary drainage, or nephrostomy catheter placement.

Provide counseling to radiologic patients to explain the processes, risks, benefits, or alternative treatments.

Administer or maintain conscious sedation during and after procedures.

Instruct radiologic staff in desired techniques, positions, or projections.

Confer with medical professionals regarding image-based diagnoses.

Coordinate radiological services with other medical activities.

Document the performance, interpretation, or outcomes of all procedures performed.

Interpret images using computer-aided detection or diagnosis systems.

Establish or enforce standards for protection of patients or personnel.

Develop or monitor procedures to ensure adequate quality control of images.

Recognize or treat complications during and after procedures, including blood pressure problems, pain, oversedation, or bleeding.

Serve as an offsite teleradiologist for facilities that do not have on-site radiologists.

Administer radiopaque substances by injection, orally, or as enemas to render internal structures and organs visible on x-ray films or fluoroscopic screens.

Develop treatment plans for radiology patients.

Participate in continuing education activities to maintain and develop expertise.

Treat malignant internal or external growths by exposure to radiation from radiographs (x-rays), high energy sources, or natural or synthetic radioisotopes.

Participate in quality improvement activities including discussions of areas where risk of error is high.

Conduct physical examinations to inform decisions about appropriate procedures.

Supervise and teach residents or medical students.

Implement protocols in areas such as drugs, resuscitation, emergencies, power failures, or infection control.

Schedule examinations and assign radiologic personnel.

Provide advice on types or quantities of radiology equipment needed to maintain facilities.

Participate in research projects involving radiology.