N
The Global Insight

Where are radiologists most needed?

Author

Michael Gray

Updated on March 24, 2026

Our research found that Minnesota is the best state for radiologists, while Minnesota and North Dakota are ranked highest in terms of median salary. Minnesota has a median salary of $210,289 and Minnesota has the highest median salary among all 50 states for radiologists.

Is there a shortage of radiologist?

The Association of American Medical Colleges predicts the specialist shortfall could swell to nearly 42,000 by 2033. By 2033, the United States could have a shortfall of nearly 42,000 radiologists and other clinical specialists, according to a newly released analysis.

Do ultrasounds have to be read by a radiologist?

A radiologist reads imaging scans and results from X-rays, CT scans, MRI, mammograms, and ultrasounds. Having an eye for detail and a great memory is essential for interpreting these results.

Can a radiologist miss something?

A radiologist could improperly administer and interpret a mammogram, which could result in a missed or delayed diagnosis of breast cancer. A radiologist reading a chest X-ray could miss a tumor. This could cause a critical delay in a patient’s diagnosis of lung cancer.

What is the highest paying job in radiology?

Radiation oncologists and radiologists earn the highest average salaries in this field.

Is radiology a stressful job?

Results: The most stressful aspect of work for radiologists was work overload. Inadequacies in current staffing and facilities and concerns about funding were also major sources of stress, as were impositions made on radiologists by other clinicians.

Are radiologists in demand?

As of late 2019, a continued, resurgent demand for radiologists was expected through 2025. Merritt Hawkins projected growth for radiology services, based on an aging population and a strong economy allowing more elective surgeries. Imaging demand dropped sharply—in some cases as much as 80%.

What does a radiologist do all day?

Normal daily tasks for radiologists include: Obtaining patient histories from patient interviews, electronic records, referring clinicians or dictated reports. Preparing comprehensive reports of findings. Performing diagnostic imaging procedures, such as MRI, CT, PET, ultrasound or mammography.

Is it hard to be a radiologist?

Becoming a radiologist isn’t easy. It takes a lot of dedication and hard work—medical students and residents often have difficulty coping with the pressure. That’s why it’s so important to make sure becoming a doctor is what you really want before you commit.

What’s the best way to become a radiologist?

Licensure can be earned by passing the United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Exam (COMLEX) and meeting any other state requirements. In addition, many radiologists are certified through the American Board of Radiology (ABR) or the American Osteopathic Board of Radiology (AOBR).

What are the day to day duties of a radiologist?

A radiologist’s day-to-day job duties might include interpreting information gathered through imaging techniques, communicating results with doctors and patients, writing medical reports, and explaining treatment risks, benefits, and alternatives to patients.

What kind of technology does a radiologist use?

A radiologist is a physician, or medical doctor, who specializes in using medical imaging techniques, such as X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), or computer tomograhy (CT) to diagnose and treat diseases or injuries.

How much money does a radiologist make a year?

Radiologists can stay current on the latest developments in radiology through online classes and other forms of continuing education. According to January 2020 data from PayScale.com, the median annual salary for a radiologist was $301,538 with most of these physicians earning between $102,000 and $449,000.