Advocating Renaming Radiodiagnosis to Clinical Radiology: Aligning Nomenclature with Contemporary Clinical Practice

World over and even within India, there are various designations for the same postgraduate training program in Radiology. The MD in Radiodiagnosis is the most prevalent and widely acknowledged degree title provided by the majority of medical colleges and central institutions. The term “Radiodiagnosis” was previously standardized by the Medical Council of India and is currently upheld by the NMC. Likewise, the DNB in Radiodiagnosis is conferred by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences, and this degree is recognized by the NMC as equivalent to an MD for all academic and professional purposes. The medical colleges under the NMC have retained the department name as “Radiodiagnosis.” However, the central autonomous institutions have incorporated the aspect of “Interventional Radiology” into the department or the course, or both.

Historically, the term “Radiodiagnosis” or “Diagnostic Imaging” emerged when Radiotherapy was distinguished from the broader terminology of Radiology in the 1970s. The curriculum for Radiodiagnosis training encompasses both diagnostic and image-guided interventions. Moreover, the range of imaging and interventions has expanded significantly due to technological advancements and various clinical applications. It is evident that the current postgraduate training necessitates modifications to reflect this inclusivity of Interventional Radiology. The Department of “Radiodiagnosis and Interventional Radiology” or “Clinical Radiology” signifies the patient care within the department as well as the postgraduate training. These terminologies are fitting, enhance visibility, and provide a clearer understanding for patients. In contemporary times, they also offer greater support from a medicolegal standpoint. The terminology further reflects a global perspective. With strong clinical knowledge, increased patient interaction, multidisciplinary integration through multidisciplinary teams, and understanding of disease management, radiologists have evolved from image interpreters to clinical doctors. Clinical Radiology now encompasses both “Doctor's doctor” and “Patient's doctor.” As clinical radiologists, we are responsible for patients undergoing imaging and guiding our clinical colleagues in delivering value-based care.

Changes must be initiated at the level of government authorities. The National Medical Council and the National Board should contemplate alterations in the department name and the training program. In conclusion, it is appropriate that the departments of Clinical Radiology train postgraduate students in “Radiodiagnosis” as well as “Interventional Radiology” to make them future wholesome “Clinical Radiologists.”

Conflict of Interest

None declared.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
09. Januar 2026