Medical, Surgical, & Viewing Terms and Abbreviations
Medical, Surgical, & Viewing Terms and Abbreviations
Medical Careers & Professional Terminology
radiologic technologist (RT): Creates images of patients’ bodies using medical equipment. The images help doctors diagnose and treat diseases and injuries. Technologists assist physicians in procedures as well as prepare and administer contrast agents in order to better visualize the anatomy of interest. Rad Techs need to be licensed in many states in order to administer x-rays (x-radiation). Many schools offer degrees or certificates to achieve before taking your registry in order to become licensed.
specialized radiologic technologist: Radiologic technologists can specialize in Computed Tomography (CT); Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI); Bone Densitometry (D); Positron Emission Tomography (PET); Nuclear Medicine (NM); and Radiation Therapy (RT). These specialties could be completed while on the job or with an additional year of education depending on the area chosen. Technologists can become certified in multiple modalities by completing requirements and passing the registry for the specified modality of interest.
radiologist: A medical doctor that specializes in diagnosing and treating injuries and diseases using medical imaging procedures, or exams, from the Radiology Department. Procedures could include x-rays, Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Nuclear Medicine (NM), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and Ultrasound (Sonography). Radiologists complete at least 13 years of training, including medical school, a four-year residency, and most often, an additional one- or two-year fellowship of very specialized training, such as radiation oncology, pediatric radiology, or interventional radiology. They are certified by the American Board of Radiology, and they have exacting requirements for continuing medical education throughout their practicing years.
physical therapist assistant (PTA): Provides physical therapist services under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. PTAs implement components of patient care, obtain data related to the treatments provided, and collaborate with the PT to modify care as necessary. They assist patients in recovery after injuries, postoperative care, and pain management through strategic exercises and therapeutic methods. PTAs have completed a minimal associate-level degree and passed a licensing exam.
physical therapist (PT): Physicians who diagnose and treat patients by prescribing exercises, hands-on care, and patient education. PTs are required to obtain a doctorate in physical therapy. This typically takes 3 years, and graduates must also pass a state licensure exam.
orthopedic surgeon: A medical doctor who completes an additional 5 years of specialized training in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and surgery of disorders and diseases related to the musculoskeletal systems.
neurologist: A medical doctor who completes an additional 5 years of specialized training in the