Nuclear Medicine Physicians

Nuclear medicine physicians who work in a hospital managed-care setting or for a large group or corporation and who have years of experience may start their own private practice. Progress in this career comes from advancing in knowledge and skill, as well as by increasing the number of patients, which leads to an increase in income. Nuclear medicine physicians may be made a fellow in a professional specialty or elected to an important office in the American Medical Association or American Osteopathic Association. They also elevate their status through research and teaching positions.

Some nuclear medicine physicians may become directors of a laboratory, managed-care facility, hospital department, or medical school program. Some may move into hospital administration positions. Nuclear medicine physicians also achieve recognition by conducting research in new medicines, treatments, and cures, and publishing their findings in medical journals. Participation in professional organizations can also bring prestige. Another way physicians advance is by pursuing further education in a subspecialty or a second field.