Why Radiology is a good career?
Radiology is a unique specialty which is not only continuing to play an increasingly important role in diagnostic field but is also influencing new therapeutic interventions to a greater degree. Functional imaging in the form of PET (Positron Emission Tomography) has further broadened its role in diagnostic medicine. Increasing sophisticated computer programmes have enable fast scanning particularly with Computer Tomography(CT) making it a valuable tool in emergency and trauma settings. CT angiography using new Multislice technology is now replacing diagnostic cerebral and coronary angiography work. New Magnetic Resonance (MR) scanners have exquisit soft tissue contrast and increasing ability for functional imaging. MR angiography has largely replaced peripheral limb angiography.
In brief Radiology is full of exciting and diverse work with a great future in medicine.
What’s the demand for Radiology in UK ?
There is significant deficit of Radiologists in UK . Not long ago, the Royal College of Radiologists in its document on extended working hours (proposed 7am to 7pm plus weekend working for Radiology departments) gave a figure in excess of 1800 more consultant Radiologists needed to cope with this working pattern. This demand is likely to last for at least 7-10 years.
Recently 3 Radiology Academies have been established in England to increase the number of trainees (around 60 per year per academy), this programme is called Radiology Integrated Training Initiative (RITI). This programme combines computer based learning with blocks of hospital attachments in alternative fashion. There is also increasing utility of Virtual/Simulation Training particularly in the field of Interventional Raiology.
What are sub-specialty opportunities in Radiology?
There is good demand for both generalists (in District General Hospitals) and specialists (usually in Teaching Hospitals). Established sub-specialties in Radiology include Breast, Neuro, Cardio-thoracic, Musculoskeletal, Paediatric and Intervention. Some people develop interest in Oncology, Gastrointestinal, Genito-urinary Radiology and Nuclear Medicine.
How can you get into Radiology Training Schemes?
All the important information regarding training and examination can be accessed from the following two websites:
1. www.rcr.ac.uk (Royal College of Raiologists website)
2. www.thesrt.org.uk (Society of Radiologists in Training website)
I will strongly recommend anyone who is interested to come to UK for Radiology training to join SRT which is free of charge and provides useful teaching resources. This also provides a sample career pathway.
Usual entry into training requires at least 12 months of clinical experience after House Job (total 2years). Completion of MRCP or MRCS is desirable but highly recomended to stand out among the applicants. Considering the introduction of Founation grade jobs recently, candidates are recommended to arrive soon after graduation to get into the system from F1 Year. Usual training period is 5 years as Specialist Registrar with successful completion of Fellowship( FRCR).
Part 1 of FRCR happens just 3 months into the training with MCQ’s (syllabus: basic X-ray physics, interaction of x-rays with matter and radiation protection issues and legislations).
Part 2A of FRCR contains 6 system based modular MCQ papers
Part 2B of FRCR includes Rapid Reporting (30 films in 30 minutes), Long Cases (6 in 45 minutes) and 2 Vivas (30 minutes duration each)
For eligibility requirements of 2A and 2B please refer to RCR website.
Wishing you all the best
Musa Kaleem
MRCPCH, FRCR
Specialist Registrar and Fellow in Paediatric Radiology
Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool
E-mail: musakaleem@hotmail.com