Radiologists

Salary

Senior Medical Officers receive a base salary relative to their level of experience. This is agreed upon at the time of the job offer. There is a 15-step pay scale that SMOs continue to progress through on a yearly basis.

In New Zealand, the salaries and benefits of some roles are determined by collective agreements between unions and employers.

Employment agreementsexternal link

Additional allowances are paid on top of base salary and vary due to location and service, and are often not specified in the collective agreement.

Allowances

There is a range of additional allowances for:

• on-call
• evening, night and weekend work
• call back
• job size
• recruitment and retention
• special contribution.

Leave

Leave entitlements include:

• 6 weeks of paid annual leave
• a minimum of 10 days of sick leave per year
• 10 days of paid continuing medical education leave (CME), plus the ability to use annual leave tacked onto the end of your CME travel
• 6 to 12 months of parental leave, depending on the length of service, including 6 weeks of fully paid parental leave
• 12 paid public holidays and time in lieu or alternative holiday if rostered on
• long service leave and sabbatical opportunities.

Additional benefits

Additional benefits include:

• an annual continuing medical education (CME) allowance of NZD $16,000 (pro-rated for part-time employees)
• membership subscriptions of medical professional bodies are reimbursed by Health NZ
• your professional indemnity insurance is covered by Health NZ
• if eligible, up to a 6% matching superannuation contribution from Health NZ as your employer
• a relocation package for international candidates.

KiwiSaver (superannuation savings scheme)

Leadership and career development opportunities

Health NZ encourages Senior Medical Officers to be involved in the design, implementation and performance of facilities and technology involved in the delivery of healthcare services to ensure an effective, efficient and safe workplace.

Specific opportunities vary by location and service; however, they can include:

• support and encouragement for research and publications
• mentorship opportunities for apprentice Junior Doctors/Registrars
• regional and national networks allowing for subspeciality research and practice.
• ongoing development and support for career growth with on-the-job coaching and a variety of in-house training programmes.

The roles and responsibilities of a Radiologist in New Zealand include a range of clinical, diagnostic, and collaborative duties:

Diagnostic imaging

Radiologists interpret medical images such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasound scans to diagnose diseases, injuries, and other medical conditions.

Patient care

Radiologists are responsible for ensuring that imaging procedures are safe and appropriate for each patient.

Interventional procedures

Radiologists may perform minimally invasive procedures guided by imaging technology, such as biopsies, drainages, or the insertion of catheters and stents. These procedures often serve as alternatives to traditional surgery.

Consultation with other physicians

Radiologists frequently collaborate with other medical professionals, providing expert opinions on imaging results to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning. They may also participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss complex cases.

Quality assurance and safety

Radiologists are responsible for ensuring the quality of imaging procedures and maintaining safety standards. This includes oversight of imaging protocols to minimise radiation exposure and adhering to expected standards of practice in Radiology.

Teaching and mentoring

Many Radiologists in New Zealand contribute to the education and training of medical students, Radiology residents, and other healthcare professionals. This may involve delivering lectures, supervising clinical training, and mentoring junior staff.

Research and continuing education

Radiologists are often involved in clinical research to advance the field of Radiology and improve patient care. They also engage in continuing education to stay current with technological advancements and emerging practices in diagnostic imaging.

Administrative duties

Radiologists may take on administrative roles, such as managing a Radiology department, developing policies and procedures, or overseeing the implementation of new technologies and practices within the imaging service.

To work as a Radiologist in New Zealand, the following qualifications and experience are required:

Medical degree

MBChB or equivalent — Radiologists must first obtain a medical degree (MBChB or equivalent) from a recognised medical school. This typically involves a 5- to 6-year undergraduate medical programme.

General medical registration

New Zealand Medical Council registration — Graduates must complete a one-year internship (house officer year) and obtain general registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ). International medical graduates may need to pass additional exams or assessments to gain registration.

Specialist training in Radiology

Radiology residency programme — After gaining general medical registration, doctors must complete a specialist training programme in Radiology. In New Zealand, this is typically a 5-year training programme accredited by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR). The programme includes both clinical training and examinations.

Fellowship with RANZCR

FRANZCR certification — upon successful completion of the residency programme, Radiologists must obtain a Fellowship with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (FRANZCR) or equivalent. This fellowship certifies them as a qualified Radiologist and is required to practice independently in New Zealand.

Experience in Radiology

Clinical experience — relevant clinical experience during and after the residency programme is essential. Many Radiologists gain additional experience through fellowships or work in various subspecialties of Radiology, such as Interventional Radiology, Neuroradiology, or Paediatric Radiology.

Continued Professional Development

Ongoing education — Radiologists are expected to engage in continued professional development (CPD) to maintain their registration and stay up to date with the latest advancements in Radiology. This may involve attending conferences, workshops, and completing CPD activities.

English language proficiency

Language requirements — proficiency in English is mandatory, and international medical graduates may need to provide proof of English language proficiency through exams like IELTS or OET, unless they have completed their primary medical qualifications in an English-speaking country.

Registration with professional bodies

Professional registration — in addition to MCNZ, Radiologists may need to register with relevant professional bodies, such as the RANZCR, and adhere to their standards and codes of conduct.

Internationally qualified candidates

Titles may vary depending on the specific role, responsibilities, and the country in which the Radiologist is practising. However, some alternative titles internationally could include:

• Clinical Radiologist
• Consultant Radiologist
• Diagnostic Imaging Consultant
• Diagnostic Radiologist
• Imaging Consultant
• Interventional Radiologist
• Medical Imaging Specialist
• Radiology Consultant
• Radiology Physician
• Radiology Specialist

Find out more about life in New Zealand

We have a page dedicated to providing information to candidates about our recruitment process, what you need to work in New Zealand and key details about moving here.

Our recruitment process