Differentiating Radiotherapy and Radiology

18 June 2026

This AXREM guidance paper explains the important distinction between radiology and radiotherapy, two healthcare disciplines that are often confused but play very different roles in patient care. While radiology focuses on diagnosing and monitoring disease through medical imaging and image-guided procedures, radiotherapy uses precisely targeted radiation to treat cancer and selected benign conditions.

The paper provides an accessible overview of both specialties, highlights the multidisciplinary teams involved, and outlines the key differences in purpose, technology, patient pathways, and use of radiation. Designed for healthcare stakeholders, policymakers, industry professionals, and patients, it supports greater understanding of the vital contribution both services make to modern healthcare.