Radiographers and radiologists: what's the difference?

Many people are confused by the differences between a radiographer and a radiologist. Radiologists and radiographers often work together, but they are not the same.

Radiographers are allied health professionals who take x-rays and other medical images including MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans and CT (computed tomography), to assist medical doctors in diagnosing, monitoring and treating illnesses and injuries. They are also known as medical imaging technologists.

In order to practise in Australia, a radiographer must complete a university degree and undergo supervised training in an approved hospital radiology department or private clinic.

Radiologists are specialist medical doctors trained to interpret x-rays and other medical imaging tests. They diagnose and carry out treatments using:

• ultrasound
• x-rays
• CT scans
• MRIs (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
• PET scans (Positron Emission Tomography)
• and other medical imaging technology

A radiologist interprets the findings of your imaging to assist in making a diagnosis. After qualifying as doctors and working in hospital, radiologists complete a specialist medical training program run by The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR). A radiologists may do extra training to become an interventional radiologist. This involves performing image-guided procedures inside a person's body, such as treating cancerous tumours or inserting stents to open arteries.

When do I see a radiographer or radiologist?

Your doctor can refer you to radiology for many reasons. Some common reasons include to have scans:

• to diagnose and identify metabolic changes within the body
• to provide cross-sectional images of the body
• to identify any trauma (injury) to bones
• during pregnancy
• for radiation therapy for cancers

There are questions you can ask your doctor to prepare for your appointment with a radiographer.

How do I find a radiographer or radiologist?

To find a radiographer or radiologist, ask your doctor for a recommendation or use the healthdirect service finder to locate a radiology service in your area.

The Australian federal government provides a list of locations of MRI and PET units across Australia.

Do I need a referral for a radiographer or radiologist?

It is important to get a referral from your doctor or specialist. That way, your doctor will be informed about the results of your visit and any tests performed. Also, if you don't have a referral, neither Medicare nor private health insurance will contribute to the cost of your care.

How much do radiographers and radiologists cost?

Diagnostic imaging providers set their own fees. This means that the amount you pay varies. This depends on:

• where you go
• the type of imaging
• who is referring you
• the condition being scanned or treated

Some scans may be covered by Medicare, however, you may have to pay for some tests. Ask what your out-of-pocket costs will be before visiting a radiologist or before you have the scan.

Where do radiographers and radiologists work?

Radiographers and radiologists work closely together and work as part of a team with other healthcare professionals including medical and nursing staff. They work in major public and private hospitals, medical centres and specialist clinics, such as cancer clinics.

Resources and Support

For more information on radiographers and radiologists, please visit the following websites:

• Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists
• Inside radiology
• Radiation oncology

Find MRI and PET unit locations in Australia.