6 Tips for Aspiring Radiologists
Professor Sujal Desai has spent over 25 years as a consultant radiologist, and co-founded DMC Radiology Reporting in 2013. Over those years, Sujal has become a mentor to junior radiologists, and has 6 key tips which he imparts for those who are looking to develop their careers in the exciting world of radiology:
1. Enjoy it!
The first thing I would say is to enjoy the career – you have many years in this field! Working as a radiologist is a career without boundaries, which is ever-expanding, especially with the growing influence of teleradiology both in the NHS and private sector.
2. Experience is critical
I would heavily advise using your years to gain as much experience as you can: being a consultant radiologist is primarily about experience and this is what our clinical colleagues rely on. The expertise of a consultant radiologist is based on our wealth of experience and ability to say not only whether something is normal or abnormal, but also explain why we come to a particular conclusion. This is why I would recommend any aspiring radiologist to broaden their experience: it will serve you well in the profession.
3. Don't rush into specialising
Take your time! Radiology is central to so much in modern medicine – after all, multidisciplinary team meetings in most hospitals now are run by radiologists. Take time to see the gamut of radiology specialities on offer. Ultimately, as a radiologist and before starting your consultant career, you will be making a choice: broadly speaking, but with some inevitable overlap, radiologists might be divided into those choosing to specialise in international and non-interventional radiology but whatever path you eventually follow, do not decide too early! But CHEST IS BEST
4. Seek out a role model
As with any career, a role model can dramatically influence the path of one’s career. I speak from personal experience! My decision to a) become a radiologist and b) specialise in thoracic radiology was influenced by my mentor and research supervisor, Professor David Hansell. I was a senior house officer at the Royal Brompton Hospital in the early 1990s when David was at the start of his consultant career. It was my interaction with David and my subsequent research efforts which shaped my entire career. Incidentally, I now sit in the office at the Brompton vacated by Professor Hansell on his retirement! Inspirational leaders and mentors are everywhere – have the courage to go and talk. You never know where it will lead!
5. Develop your communication skills
Given the remote and often isolating working pattern for those working both in radiology units and teleradiology reporters, the significance of strong communication skills is often overlooked. Communication and rapport between radiology and clinical teams only serves to improve patient care and can facilitate greater efficiency across any radiology unit. In addition, regular engagement with colleagues, acquaintances and friends in the radiology field can ease isolation and burnout issues along the line…the radiology world is a brilliant community, so don’t be afraid to reach out to your colleagues!
6. Embrace feedback
Alongside experience, the quickest way to learn (and ultimately become a better radiologist) is to embrace feedback. Although this may seem uncomfortable at times, constructive feedback from senior radiologists and referring clinicians is a key element for any developing radiologist. Moreover, through case review sessions one can understand different interpretations and perspectives, which can broaden your understanding.
