A radiologist may use X-rays to monitor the progress of a condition or treatment.
A radiology specialist, usually referred to as a radiologist, is a physician who specializes in the use of X-rays and other forms of radiation technology to diagnose and treat afflictions. A radiologist may use X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography scans and other methods to create images of internal structures of the human body to aid diagnosis, and may use X-rays or radioisotopes in the treatment of both external and internal conditions. His salary reflects his level of expertize, although it can vary dependent upon certain circumstances.
Average Salary
Salary comparison website PayScale.com, in its survey of American radiologists conducted in January 2011, found that the average yearly salary for radiologists is $45,587 to $201,144. This means a monthly income of between $3,799 and $16,762. However, the salary that an individual radiology specialist achieves will depend upon the amount of bonus, profit-sharing and commission that augments his basic pay.
Salary by Experience
Crucial to determining a radiologist's income is the amount of experience he has in the profession. PayScale.com figures indicate that while a radiology physician with less than 12 months in the field can expect a salary between $47,736 and $192,707, an individual with five to nine years' experience may receive $66,793 to $259,116. Radiologists who have practiced for between 10 and 19 years are listed as achieving salary levels of $115,145 to $338,978.
Salary by Employer
It is not just how long a radiologist has worked in the profession that influences his salary; the nature of his employer plays a part too. As of January 2011 PayScale.com indicates that individuals working in private practice have the best chances of achieving the highest salaries, averaging between $61,042 and $343,823. Hospitals typically offer between $47,445 and $197,664. The lowest-paying sectors of the medical field are federal government agencies--at $34,392 to $16,997 annually--and nonprofit organizations, at around $75,000 to $230,000 annually.
Salary by Location
Salaries also vary according to geographical location. Of the states analyzed on PayScale.com, Georgia and New York offer the highest average wages--$43,747 to $341,114 and $57,500 to $305,109, respectively. Among the lowest-paying states are Florida and Texas--$40,963 to $200,000 and $48,387 to $152,605.
Salary by Gender
One of the biggest variations concerning salaries for radiologists are the relative pay levels achieved by male and female practitioners. While male radiologists receive between $59,576 and $252,826, according to PayScale.com, female radiologists average below that, at $41,177 to $151,917.
Tags: January 2011, radiologist X-rays, radiology specialist
