Now, radiology has more takers than cardiology

Among postgraduate medical students, the favourite streams include medicine, orthopaedics, paediatrics and cardiology.

But the trend this year indicates that the most preferred stream is radiology. Six of the first 10 rankers in the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (CET), among others, have opted for radiology.

“Every year a different pattern emerges, with students preferring to opt for certain streams which they think will be suitable for them. It is difficult to pinpoint this trend, and to say whether it is the best of all streams. Every branch has its own advantages,” said Dr WB Tayade, director of the Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER).

Dr Ravikant Singh, joint secretary, Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors, said: “There is no doubt that radiology is a preferred stream. Even the best of the students want to study radiology.”

According to experts, there is a shortage of good radiologists and doctors opting for this stream will find it easier to get employment.

“Some of the reasons for this preference include good returns and early settlement. Even if these students are not able to establish their own diagnostic centre immediately after finishing studies, they can still earn good amount of money either in one of the metros or even in smaller cities,” said Singh.

Another doctor who opted for radiology said: “It is a very neat and clean branch. Emergencies are rare.”

Ramesh Waghmare, who has opted for radiology at a private medical college this year, said: “I think it’s an exciting stream.

About 20-25 years ago, radiology involved just x-rays and sonography. But today, there’s MRI, CAT scan, PET scan and a number of other exciting cutting-edge equipment and technologies which need expertise.”