Radiology is one of the most lucrative jobs in the medical field worldwide. There are several openings in South Africa yearly. It is not strange seeing people search for how much a radiologist earns in South Africa. After all, money is one of the key motivations while job hunting.
In this post, we will take a look at how much a radiologist earns yearly in South Africa, as well as how to become a radiologist in the country.
Who is a Radiologist?
It is key that we define this before we go ahead. A radiologist is a medical personnel who makes utilizes medical imaging techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and diseases. Some of these techniques include Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and X-rays.
To become a radiologist one has to go through extensive education. It requires one to go through a Bachelor’s Degree program, medical school, as well as residency. A medical license is also required. Optional requirements include a fellowship and extra certification.
How much do Radiologists earn in South Africa?
- For a radiologist just starting out, having between one to four years of experience, the annual salary is about R660 000.
- Mid-level radiologists could earn as much as R991 571 every year.
- At experienced level (between 10 and 20 years) earn as much as R1 800 000 per year.
Educational Requirements
The first step to becoming a radiologist in South Africa is bagging a Degree in Medicine. To gain admission into medical school, one must pass the following courses:
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
Many students at the undergraduate level prefer working in medical settings while schooling. They do this so that they can gain lots of experience. The medical school runs for four years with the first two is class-based. The student takes courses which include anatomy, pharmacology, pathology, and biochemistry. The remaining two years involve clinical rotations spread across various areas of medicine such as:
- Surgery
- Pediatrics
- Internal medicine
- Psychiatry
Radiology Training
After graduating from medical school, the individual still has to go through four years of residency. This radiology residency period covers paid on-the-job training as well as specialty medical education. There are several sub-specialties of radiology which the radiologist has to go through during this period.
The aspiring radiologist will also have to attend lectures and undertake several types of research. During this period, some radiologists dedicate time to undergo specific training. This training affords them the opportunity to specialize in different fields of radiology.
One of such fields is interventional radiology. This field requires the medical personnel to make use of wires, catheters, and other probes while carrying out certain imaging procedures. After the radiologist completes the residency period, there is a fellowship training which takes another one or two years.
Each year, new technology is invented in the radiology field. This requires the radiologist to continually be abreast of the latest information on how to maneuver the new tech. this way the newly invented equipment will be used safely. It is very common to see radiologists at advanced levels still taking specialized training at several levels so they can keep up with the trends in the industry.
Licensure and Certification
To enter into full medical practice, a radiologist must possess a license. This license must be renewed regularly so that the individual can continue to practice legally. To gain more knowledge about getting a radiologist license in South Africa, you need to make inquiries from the Radiological Society of South Africa.
The individual also has to meet the requirements of the State or Province where he will be practicing. Many radiologists strive to attain certification from other major bodies which gives them an edge in their practice. Though certification is not mandatory, the radiologists are expected to continue getting educated as they grow in the profession.
Career Information
Some of the day-to-day duties of radiologists include interpreting the information that is gathered from different imaging techniques. After interpretation, they will be required to present the information to the overseeing doctors as well as patients in their care.
They are also required to write medical reports based on the results at their disposal as well as explain the pros and cons of prescribed treatment. Most times, they will also explain the different alternatives to the patients so that they can decide on what method they will go with.
Under the jurisdiction of a radiologist is a team of assistants and imaging technicians. To stay abreast of the recent developments in the industry, the radiologist may have to take online classes.
Conclusion
This post regarding radiologists’ salary in South Africa must have been beneficial to you. Now you can weigh your options as to whether you want to choose this career path or not.
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