The Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) is committed to empowering patients and their families with clear, accessible information about medical imaging. This section offers trusted resources to help you better understand imaging procedures, the role of radiologists, and what to expect during your care journey. From contrast agent use to breast cancer screening and radiation safety, these materials are designed to support informed decision-making and promote safe, high-quality care across Canada.
Who are radiologists?
Radiologists are physicians who specialize in interpreting medical images and performing image-guided procedures. If you’ve had an MRI, CT scan, ultrasound, or mammogram, a radiologist has played a key role in your diagnosis or treatment—even if you didn’t meet them directly.
Radiologists contribute to your care by:
- Analyzing imaging to detect abnormalities
- Communicating findings and recommendations to your doctor
- Performing minimally invasive, image-guided procedures
- Conducting biopsies using imaging
- Ensuring the safe use of radiation
Understanding Medical Imaging
Medical imaging allows healthcare providers to see inside the body in ways the human eye cannot. Radiologists are the experts who interpret these images and guide your care. They work closely with family doctors and specialists to recommend the most appropriate imaging exams and interpret the results to support diagnosis and treatment planning.
Even if you don’t meet your radiologist, you can trust that they are working behind the scenes to ensure you receive safe, effective, and timely care.
Contrast Agent Use in Medical Imaging: A Roadmap for Patients
The CAR has developed a patient-friendly infographic to help individuals and families understand the role of contrast agents in medical imaging. This resource explains the different types of contrast, their common uses, and what patients can expect during procedures involving contrast. Designed for display in radiology clinics and for sharing online, the infographic addresses frequently asked questions and common concerns in a clear, accessible format.
Social media graphics
Common Types of Contrast and Their Use
Patient Journey with Contrast Imaging
Information You Can Use
At CAR, we believe patients and families are essential members of the healthcare team. That’s why we provide practical, easy-to-understand resources to help you make informed decisions about your care.
Featured Resources
A Patient’s Journey Through Breast Cancer Screening – Poster
Created for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this visual guide highlights the role of radiologists in early detection and diagnosis.
Radiation Exposure in Medical Imaging
Learn more about radiation exposure from Canada Safe Imaging.
Choosing Wisely Canada Resources
CAR supports this national campaign to help patients and physicians make smart, evidence-based decisions.
Pediatric Imaging Safety
The CAR is a proud member of the International Alliance for Radiation Safety in Pediatric Imaging. For information to help you make informed choices about diagnostic imaging for your child, please visit the Resources for Parents page of the Image Gently website.
Learn More About Medical Imaging
The CAR is a partner in the Medical Imaging Team, whose publications help the public identify the role of each of the healthcare professionals (physicians, physicists, sonographers and technologists) who collaborate to improve the health of Canadians through diagnostic imaging.
Among the important patient resources developed by the Medical Imaging Team is a brochure which provides patients with basic information regarding medical imaging to help them make informed decisions about their health. Additional information is also available at the Information for Patients and Their Families page of the Medical Imaging Team website.
