A veterinary radiologist is someone who is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Radiology or a veterinarian who has specialized in radiology or imaging of pets. Veterinary radiologists who are board certified by the American College of Veterinary Radiology (ACVR) (www.acvr.org) are uniquely qualified to render first or second opinions on radiographs, ultrasound examinations, advanced imaging modalities (CT/MRI) and nuclear studies. These veterinarians have completed a formal 3-4 year residency in diagnostic imaging and have had intense formal training and practical experience in radiographic and ultrasound studies of both small and large animal species. These veterinarians have also competed necessary training in advanced imaging studies (CT/MRI) and nuclear medicine procedures. There are less than 350 board certified veterinary radiologists, with most practicing in the United States. Certification by the ACVR assures competency in performing these imaging procedures.
The word Diplomate, generally speaking, means specialist. Once a veterinarian has completed specialized training that can take several years to complete beyond Veterinary school, they must pass a comprehensive examination given by a college approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association (avma) [www.avma.org] to become board certified. The veterinarian that has completed this training and passed the examination is then labeled as a Diplomate (or specialist). There are many types of specialists, including radiologists, surgeons, internists, dermatologists, ophthalmologists, oncologists, cardiologists, neurologists, etc.