DR (ABR) - ABR-Certified Diplomat in Diagnostic Radiology

Board Certification in Diagnostic Radiology is a professional credential for physicians specializing in diagnostic radiology, a branch of medicine that uses imaging techniques to diagnose diseases. In many countries, including the United States, board certification is offered by organizations like the American Board of Radiology (ABR). This certification validates a radiologist's expertise in interpreting medical images such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds.

Completion Time: The certification process involves several years of residency training in diagnostic radiology after medical school, followed by passing a series of board examinations.

Cost:

• Application fee (due with application submission): $640

• Qualifying (core) exam fee (charged once your application has been approved and due before registration): $1280

• Certifying exam fee (charged once you have passed your qualifying exam and due before registration): $1280

• If you do not fully pass an exam, a one-time $640 re-exam fee will be charged to retake that exam.

Training and Residency Requirements

• Completion of medical school.

• A residency program in diagnostic radiology, typically lasting 4-5 years.

• Residency training includes hands-on experience in various imaging modalities, patient care, and interpretation of imaging studies.

Board Examinations

After completing residency, physicians must pass board examinations.

Exams cover a broad range of topics in diagnostic radiology, including physics, radiobiology, and safety, along with image interpretation and clinical knowledge.

Application to the relevant radiology board for eligibility assessment.

Successful completion of both written and oral board examinations.

Board-certified radiologists are typically required to participate in maintenance of certification (MOC) programs.

MOC programs often include continuing medical education (CME), self-assessment activities, and periodic re-examination or assessment.

Continuing education is a crucial part of maintaining board certification.

CME activities may include attending conferences, participating in workshops, and completing online courses relevant to diagnostic radiology.

For specific information regarding Board Certification in Diagnostic Radiology, including residency programs, examination details, and maintenance of certification, it is recommended to consult with the relevant radiology board, such as the American Board of Radiology (ABR) in the United States. Medical schools and professional radiology societies can also provide valuable resources for aspiring radiologists.

Career Opportunities

Board-certified radiologists work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices.

They play a critical role in the healthcare team, providing diagnostic insights that guide patient treatment and management.

The ABR also offers the following certifications:

• ABR-Certified Diplomat in Interventional Radiology/Diagnostic Radiology (IR/DR)

• ABR-Certified Diplomat in Medical Physics (Medical Physics)

• ABR-Certified Diplomat in Radiation Oncology (Radiation Oncology)