Physician Assistant - Radiology

Radiology / Interventional Radiology

The Radiology Assistant is an advanced practice imaging professional who works under the supervision of a board-certified radiologist to provide comprehensive patient care and perform diagnostic and image-guided procedures. The Radiology Assistant serves as a physician extender, performing fluoroscopic examinations, image-guided injections, and selected interventional radiology procedures while assisting with patient evaluation, procedural planning, and post-procedure management.

The Radiology Assistant collaborates with radiologists, nurses, technologists, and other healthcare professionals to deliver safe, high-quality, and efficient patient care in accordance with state regulations, institutional policies, and professional practice standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Clinical Responsibilities

• Perform fluoroscopic examinations under radiologist supervision.
• Perform image-guided diagnostic and therapeutic injections, including musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, arthrographic, and spinal procedures as credentialed.
• Perform selected interventional radiology procedures within the approved scope of practice, including but not limited to:
  • Joint aspirations and injections
  • Soft tissue aspirations
  • Image-guided biopsies
  • Central venous access procedures
  • Abscess drain evaluations
  • Other minimally invasive image-guided procedures as approved by the department
• Obtain comprehensive patient histories and perform focused physical assessments.
• Evaluate patients for procedural appropriateness and identify contraindications.
• Review laboratory values, diagnostic imaging, and medical records to prepare for procedures.
• Obtain informed consent in accordance with institutional policy and applicable regulations.
• Develop and implement procedural plans in collaboration with supervising radiologists.
• Administer local anesthetics, contrast media, and medications within scope of practice and institutional guidelines.
• Monitor patients throughout procedures for complications and respond appropriately to adverse events.
• Provide post-procedure assessments, patient education, discharge instructions, and follow-up recommendations.

Procedural Support

• Assist radiologists with complex vascular and nonvascular interventional procedures.
• Operate fluoroscopic and imaging equipment safely and effectively.
• Ensure accurate specimen collection, labeling, and handling.
• Document procedures, findings, medications administered, and patient outcomes in the electronic medical record.

Quality and Safety

• Practice radiation safety principles consistent with ALARA standards.
• Ensure compliance with infection prevention and sterile processing protocols.
• Participate in departmental quality improvement and patient safety initiatives.
• Maintain competency in emergency response procedures and procedural sedation support, as applicable.
• Assist in developing and maintaining clinical protocols and best practices.

Collaboration

• Work closely with radiologists, referring providers, nurses, and technologists to coordinate patient care.
• Educate patients and families regarding procedures, risks, benefits, and post-procedure expectations.
• Serve as a clinical resource for radiology staff regarding fluoroscopic and interventional procedures.
• Participate in departmental meetings, continuing education, and professional development activities.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Graduate of an accredited Radiologist Assistant or Registered Radiologist Assistant (RRA) educational program.

Licensure and Certification

• Current ARRT certification in Radiography.
• Current Registered Radiologist Assistant (R.R.A.) certification or Radiologist Assistant credential required.
• Current state licensure as required.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification preferred.

Experience

• Previous experience performing fluoroscopic procedures required.
• Experience assisting with interventional radiology procedures preferred.
• Demonstrated competency in sterile technique and image-guided procedures.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Advanced knowledge of fluoroscopic imaging and interventional radiology procedures.
• Thorough understanding of cross-sectional anatomy, pathology, and imaging techniques.
• Strong procedural and clinical assessment skills.
• Ability to independently manage patient care within delegated authority.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and critical-thinking skills.
• Ability to function effectively in a fast-paced procedural environment.
• Proficiency with PACS, RIS, and electronic medical record systems.