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Q&A Dr Hefina Whiteley-Jones, specialty trainee in radiology based in Brighton
What first attracted you to radiology? Radiology experience at medical school was non-existent for me, and I found it a rather mysterious entity. But during foundation and core surgical training I realised that radiologists often provide the answer when others have failed and major management decisions were being made based on the radiologist’s opinion. Radiologists also make big calls in MDTs, as well as getting involved in high- pressure major interventional procedures. The other attractive aspects include a great work/life balance, varied sub-specialties, flexibility for part-time working and training, and potential for private practice. And of course, radiology is at the cutting edge of technology, so we have the best toys in the hospital!
What do you enjoy most about the job? My added value in a patient’s journey is huge. You are always working to ensure they get the right imaging and the right treatment at the right time. You can perform life-saving major interventions if you’re after some adrenaline, or smaller procedures if that’s not your thing. There are a range of new skills to learn, which is really rewarding. The research opportunities are vast and teaching and learning is made much easier as the patients are always available for review. I am truly excited to imagine where the specialty will be in 10 years’ time – scanners are continually improving, imaging sequences are continually in development, and the radiologist’s role will be more central than ever, especially in cancer care.
What do you find most challenging? The exams are tough and probably the biggest hurdle for trainees. The Royal College of Radiologists has recently cut these from 11 to seven in an attempt to improve things. There is an ever increasing workload: the UK has half the number of radiologists it should have, with more and more scans being performed. This does mean of course that the future for radiology as a specialty is very bright and employment prospects are excellent. Trying to follow that loop of bowel on cross-sectional imaging is always a challenge, although this does get easier with time.
Has anything surprised you about the specialty? I have found the reduced patient contact quite positive and I enjoy the balance. It gives me more time for other activities, e.g. research, and when I do see patients I value it. I also found that radiologists are generally a happy bunch who truly enjoy their job, and are not (usually) grumpily locked away in a dark room.
What do you consider the most important attributes of a good radiologist? Attention to detail, excellent clinical knowledge, and good negotiating skills. An interest in anatomy is vital, as this is the universal language of radiology that you continue to hone throughout your career. IT skills are useful, and good hand-to-eye co-ordination is crucial for procedures. Radiologists need to be inquisitive and ask questions, and often suggest diagnoses that the clinicians have not yet considered. There is nothing more satisfying that clinching the diagnosis in a difficult case.
YTHING
challenging, using the latest technology nd interventional work
Is there any advice you could give to a final year or FY trainee considering radiology? Do a taster week to get a real idea of what radiology entails and talk to radiologists about their job. I would recommend a good foundation in clinical medicine and surgery, e.g. completing CMT or CST, and postgraduate exams are a good idea too. They set you in good stead for the clinical requirements of the job and help you perform better at interview. I love my job - it is incredibly satisfying, interesting, and there is always time for a cup of tea. So if you think it is the job for you, go for it! You absolutely won’t regret it.
Sources • The Royal College of Radiologists –
www.rcr.ac.uk
• “A career in radiology”, BMJ –
tinyurl.com/zwo7ceo Joanne Curran is an associate editor of FYi
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