Certification for Interventional Radiology

Interventional radiology is a medical specialty that involves the use of imaging techniques to diagnose and treat medical conditions, thereby eliminating the need for open surgery. Certification for this medical specialty involves years of rigorous education and training. If this profession interests you, be prepared for hard work and commitment.

Education
 
Education and training to work in the field of interventional radiology takes many years of extensive study. It usually requires completion of an undergraduate degree, medical school degree program and four years of residency. To obtain certification, the candidate must pass an examination administered by the American Board of Radiology and then complete a one-year fellowship.

 
Benefits

When it comes to patient care, there are several benefits associated with interventional radiology certification. As a board-certified physician, an interventional radiologist uses minimally invasive treatment methods. Many medical conditions that used to be treated surgically can now be treated using non-surgical procedures administered by interventional radiologists. The treatments offered by interventional radiologists employ minimally invasive medicine that are less painful, less risky and allow for faster recovery time than open surgery.

Salaries

In the United States, diagnostic radiologists are highly paid specialists, earning salaries that can range from $227,000 up to $400,000 or more annually. Salary outlook for interventional radiologists appears strong.

 
Considerations
 
Interventional Radiology Certification involves years of rigorous medical education and training, but once it is successfully completed the rewards can be great and satisfying. The successful candidate enters into a career in a medical specialty that offers non-invasive treatment options for various conditions and is more desirable than surgery.