There is a dramatic gap in the demand for medical imaging procedures and available services -- a gap that likely will continue to grow. Already the need for these critical services has increased by 40 percent between 2000 and 2005. Within the next few years, the demand is expected to soar to 250 billion procedures.

Facing a shortage of qualified personnel, the American College of Radiology and the American Society of Radiologic Technologists together developed the position of radiologist assistant. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growth in the field of radiologic technology will be faster than average, with a projected increase of 18 to 26 percent during the next decade.

Radiologist assistants are radiologic technologists with advanced training in the field. Focusing strictly within radiology, radiologist assistants provide expanded patient management, perform more complex procedures and conduct research and teaching. One of their most important functions is dealing directly with the patient. This typically includes preprocedure consultations, during which they talk to patients, answer any questions and prepare them for procedures. In all their duties, RAs work under the supervision of a certified radiologist.