Radiology

A Community at Risk 

Let’s start with the straight answer you’re looking for: At vRad, we have radiologists who make $450,000 a year, and high-volume readers who pull in well over $1,000,000 a year. Obviously, that’s quite a range. That’s because the answer to this question depends on you and the way you want to practice. The real answer is, however much you want.

In celebration of World Radiology Day, we’re pleased to bring you an update on the incredible impact of the First Read Initiative (FRI) over the past six months. FRI has continued to expand, bringing vital imaging resources and training to underserved communities around the globe. We’re able to equip more healthcare providers, support more medical missions, and enhance care for countless patients, thanks to your donations.

“Only a few more months and life will be good!” It’s the rallying cry of radiology residents and fellows everywhere. The idea that if we can just hang in there, we’ll be rewarded on the other side with a successful career, caring for patients.

Recently, 331 radiologists provided a glimpse into vRad by participating in Gallagher’s nationally benchmarked engagement survey of 12,000 radiologists.

Many radiologists know vRad as a teleradiology practice, but what many may not realize is that it’s also a tech company. In fact, more than a third of our non-physician team members are on our technology teams. The benefits of technology and physicians under one roof are enormous—leading to better patient care, a better radiologist reading experience, and better service to our clients.

Ask yourself: what is your current practice doing to alleviate burnout? Are they investing in programs that support your professional and personal life?

I’ve read more radiologist burnout articles than I can count. Each is generally the same, concluding that burnout is a major problem, followed by a few ideas of what radiologists can do to help themselves.

This is not one of those articles.

This is an article about what radiology practices should be doing.

Part-time, locum tenens, moonlighting—in its many forms, practicing radiology on the side is a time-honored tradition. It offers an alternate pathway to financial freedom, an opportunity to broaden your skillset, and a tool for career exploration. Maybe you do some yourself. You wouldn’t be alone; a recent study from Medscape found that 42% of radiologists supplement their income with extra work, either by extending their hours or working outside their current position.

Leaving private practice is hard. As vRad’s Medical Director, I interview radiologists every day who are wrestling with that difficult decision. Even in the face of exhaustion and burnout, they run up against loyalty to their colleagues. Others worry about the impact of unwinding their current financial entanglements.

For those considering teleradiology, the thought can seem particularly daunting. Will I feel isolated? How fast do I have to read? Can this really be a stable career change?

So how did those who made the switch do it?