It is the question I am asked most about radiology. The short answer: AI will not replace radiologists, but radiologists who use AI may replace those who do not.
Research over the last few years shows AI picking up very small lesions on scans, and in some studies its detection sensitivity has matched or beaten radiologists. That is impressive, and it is why so many aspirants worry about choosing radiology.
As a neurologist, when I make a treatment decision from an MRI, for example telling neurocysticercosis apart from a tuberculoma, I rely on a radiologist, not an algorithm. AI can give a quick heads-up, especially in an emergency when no radiologist is available. But a clinical decision needs clinical correlation, experience and medical responsibility. In India, the report must be signed by a qualified doctor, and that medico-legal responsibility cannot be handed to software.
AI will make reporting faster. Imagine a centre where two radiologists report about 40 scans each a day. With AI drafting preliminary reports, one radiologist may handle the whole load. The centre then needs fewer radiologists.
Radiologists earn well today partly because demand is far higher than supply. If AI narrows that gap, salaries may not stay as high as they are now. This will not happen overnight, and India still has a shortage of radiologists, but it is a real trend to plan for.
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If you enjoy pattern recognition, technology and diagnosis more than ward work, radiology is still an excellent branch. Go in with your eyes open: plan for a sub-speciality or intervention, and treat AI as a tool you will master.
No. AI can assist with detection and preliminary reports, but a qualified radiologist must still interpret findings in context and sign the report.
It may reduce the number of radiologists each centre needs over time, because AI makes reporting faster. Demand in India is still high today.
Interventional radiology and sub-speciality work, because they involve procedures and clinical judgement.
Yes, for those who enjoy diagnosis and technology. Plan for sub-specialisation and learn to work with AI.
Opinions are Dr. Rahul Chawla's, based on his experience mentoring NEET PG aspirants. Rules and dates change every year; always follow official notices on mcc.nic.in and natboard.edu.in.
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