Medical Imaging Matters

AHRA

Medical Imaging Matters is a podcast series covering the latest industry trends and best practices that matter most to medical imaging leaders. Each episode, AHRA will host experts in the field, including AHRA members, to talk about the topics that are presenting challenges or opportunities and discuss the resources that may be available.

  1. 1d ago

    Broadening Access to Colon Cancer Screening

    🎧 Subscribe and listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube What if one of the most effective tools for preventing colon cancer is also one of the least utilized? In this episode of Medical Imaging Matters, AHRA Executive Director Jason Newmark sits down with radiologist Dr. Mark Klein and gastroenterologist Dr. Randy Pellish to unpack the opportunities and challenges surrounding virtual colonoscopy. Despite being a safe, minimally invasive, and accurate screening tool, it remains largely underused across the healthcare system. Drs. Klein and Pellish walk through what makes virtual colonoscopy a compelling option: no sedation, a quicker and easier experience for patients, and the ability to detect both cancers and precancerous polyps with remarkable precision. In some cases, it offers a more accessible and cost-effective pathway to screening, particularly for patients who might otherwise delay or avoid traditional colonoscopy. So why hasn’t it taken off? The answer lies in a mix of outdated perceptions, limited awareness among providers and patients, and operational barriers that have slowed adoption. The conversation explores how standardization, education, and emerging technologies like AI could help close these gaps and offer broader access. At a time when screening guidelines are shifting and younger, high-risk populations are entering the picture, the stakes are rising. Expanding the use of virtual colonoscopy could help reach millions of underserved patients — catching disease earlier and saving lives in the process. For imaging leaders, clinicians, and policymakers, this episode offers a clear call to action: Rethink what’s possible in colon cancer screening, and consider how more accessible, patient-friendly tools can reshape care delivery. AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management provides medical imaging professionals with education, training, insights, and community expertise to grow as healthcare leaders. Founded in 1973, our professional organization is a catalyst for healthcare improvement by setting the standard on quality care, innovative use of technologies, and best practices in medical imaging management. Learn more and connect with us at ahra.org.

  2. Jul 7

    Expanding the Definition of Safety in Medical Imaging: The Role of the RSO

    🎧 Subscribe and listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube Radiation safety is everywhere in imaging — but rarely in the spotlight. In this episode of Medical Imaging Matters, host Jason Newmark brings together three experts from across the industry to discuss what radiation safety really looks and why it’s far more collaborative than many realize. William Breeden (One Physics), Dr. Paul Haney (Banner Health), and Chris Mitchell (Kettering Health) represent different paths into the field, but agree on a common belief: radiation safety isn’t owned by one person — it’s a team sport. At its core, the radiation safety officer (RSO) ensures the safe use of radiation for patients and staff. But in practice, their role stretches much further, from training and compliance to equipment oversight, dose monitoring, and real-time problem solving.  More critically, RSOs can’t do it alone. Imaging directors, technologists, physicists, and administrators all play a part. When those relationships are strong, safety programs thrive. When they’re not, gaps appear quickly.  As imaging grows more advanced and new therapies emerge, safety programs must evolve too. For imaging leaders, a path forward involves building strong relationships, distributing responsibility, and fostering a culture where safety belongs to everyone. Connect with our guests on LinkedIn:  Will Breeden Dr. Paul Hanny Chris Mitchell Special Thanks to OnePhysics, AHRA Podcast Sponsor One Physics is the nation's largest outsourced medical physics provider, trusted by over 4,000 clients.  One Physics proudly delivers diagnostic and therapy physics testing services, shielding design, dosimetry badge management, and Radiation Safety Officer services — nationwide. They are experts in all areas related to medical physics and radiation safety.  One Physics partners with clients to ensure they meet state and regulatory standards (ACR, TJC, IAC, RadSite). Learn more about our approach to Radiation Safety and Medical Physics at OnePhysics.com.  AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management provides medical imaging professionals with education, training, insights, and community expertise to grow as healthcare leaders. Founded in 1973, our professional organization is a catalyst for healthcare improvement by setting the standard on quality care, innovative use of technologies, and best practices in medical imaging management. Learn more and connect with us at ahra.org.

  3. Jun 23

    Why Medical Physicists Are Overloaded — and What That Means for AI in Imaging

    🎧 Subscribe and listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube In this episode, Dr. Thomas Griglock, executive director at Lucere and former associate professor at OHSU, shares a candid look at the growing imbalance in medical physics workloads. As imaging volumes climb, technology advances accelerate, and workforce pipelines tighten, physicists are spending more time on routine compliance and equipment-related tasks — leaving less capacity for higher-impact problem-solving and innovation. The conversation examines how this shift contributes to burnout and limits the ability of imaging teams to fully realize the promise of AI. While automation is often positioned as a solution, Dr. Griglock explains why adoption remains challenging in practice, particularly when clinical teams lack the time and resources to implement and oversee new tools effectively. Drawing on experience across academia, clinical operations, and industry, he also highlights the risks of decision-making that excludes key stakeholders and underscores the importance of rethinking staffing models, training pathways, and leadership alignment to support sustainable innovation. Special Thanks to Imalogix, AHRA Partner and Corporate Sponsor   Frame by Frame: Rethink Imaging is a podcast hosted by Chris St. John that explores the evolving landscape of radiology, connecting clinical insight, technology, and innovation to improve patient care and outcomes. AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management provides medical imaging professionals with education, training, insights, and community expertise to grow as healthcare leaders. Founded in 1973, our professional organization is a catalyst for healthcare improvement by setting the standard on quality care, innovative use of technologies, and best practices in medical imaging management. Learn more and connect with us at ahra.org.

  4. Jun 9

    Real-World Innovation on the Frontline: A Conversation With Beekley Medical

    🎧 Subscribe and listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube In this episode of Medical Imaging Matters, AHRA Executive Director Jason Newmark sits down with Michael McGuire, director of strategic growth and innovation at Beekley Medical®, to dive into what practical innovation looks like in healthcare today. Michael gives us a look at Beekley’s long history of innovation, starting with its evolution as a printing company in the 1930s to the modern medical device leader it is today, and a team that partners directly with clinicians to bring new ideas to life.  But while clinicians are often the source of the best ideas, heavy workloads and competing priorities make it difficult to move those ideas forward without the right partnerships. So what does it really take to make progress? This conversation offers a glimpse into the ways some of the most impactful innovations have come from strong partnerships that marry clinical know-how with leading-edge production expertise.   For imaging leaders, one lesson is clear: stay curious, build relationships, and don’t be afraid to share ideas. Your next breakthrough could start with a simple conversation. Listeners can connect with Michael on LinkedIn or via email at mmcguire@beekley.com.  Special Thanks to Beekley Medical, Longtime AHRA Partner and Corporate Sponsor  Beekley Medical continues to support imaging professionals through its partnership with AHRA, including offering five scholarships to attend the AHRA Annual Meeting. Beekley Medical’s goal is to help positively impact patients' lives and improve clinical outcomes through the research and development of simple, low-cost, disposable products that help medical imaging, surgical, and radiation oncology professionals improve communication, productivity, and the patient experience. AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management provides medical imaging professionals with education, training, insights, and community expertise to grow as healthcare leaders. Founded in 1973, our professional organization is a catalyst for healthcare improvement by setting the standard on quality care, innovative use of technologies, and best practices in medical imaging management. Learn more and connect with us at ahra.org.

  5. May 12

    ‘Radiology Is Everywhere’: The Relationship Between Imaging and Nurses

    In this episode of Medical Imaging Matters, AHRA Executive Director Jason Newmark is joined by Whitney Utt, president of the Association for Radiologic & Imaging Nursing (ARIN), and Wendy Renneke, diagnostic imaging manager at Seattle Children’s Hospital and AHRA board member. The group dives into what collaboration between nurses and technologists really looks like in practice, across CT, MRI, interventional radiology, recovery areas, and beyond. Whitney and Wendy share powerful real-world examples where nurse–technologist partnerships shine brightest, especially during high-pressure moments like contrast reactions, MRI safety concerns, and rapid patient deterioration. These stories underscore why strong relationships, built long before a crisis, matter so much. The episode wraps with an enthusiastic look at AHRA’s new partnership with ARIN — a collaboration rooted in the belief that imaging leaders and imaging nurses are better together. With joint programming planned for the AHRA Annual Meeting and a shared focus on education, connection, and multidisciplinary leadership, this partnership marks an exciting step forward for both communities. 🎧 Subscribe and listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++  AHRA Is Proud to Partner With ARIN for the 2026 Annual Meeting The 2026 AHRA Annual Meeting will be hosted in partnership with the Association for Radiologic & Imaging Nursing (ARIN). This collaboration brings together two complementary professional groups for a richer, more connected learning experience. As part of this joint event, attendees will enjoy dedicated ARIN programming throughout the meeting including two pre-conference workshops. Members can expect the same high-value education they rely on — now enhanced by opportunities to engage with imaging nurses who share many of the same challenges, goals, and patient-care priorities. This partnership opens the door to new perspectives, interdisciplinary collaboration, and shared problem-solving across the imaging care continuum. We’re thrilled to bring AHRA and ARIN members together in one dynamic space and look forward to the innovation and connection this joint meeting will spark. AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management provides medical imaging professionals with education, training, insights, and community expertise to grow as healthcare leaders. Founded in 1973, our professional organization is a catalyst for healthcare improvement by setting the standard on quality care, innovative use of technologies, and best practices in medical imaging management. Learn more and connect with us at ahra.org.

  6. Apr 7

    Putting Patients First: How Imaging Leaders Turn Grant Funds Into Real-World Impact

    In this episode of Medical Imaging Matters, AHRA Executive Director Jason Newmark brings together imaging leaders and partners to explore how AHRA’s Putting Patients First Grant Program, generously funded by Canon Medical, is translating grant funding into measurable improvements in patient care.  Joined by Andrew Ruiz, chair of AHRA’s Member Recognition Committee, and Andrew Kuhls‑Gilcrist of Canon Medical, the conversation offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at the Putting Patients First Grant Program, including how projects are selected and what makes an idea truly impactful. The discussion turns to the real-world outcomes of that work. Grant recipient Lindsay Arrington, imaging manager with Emory Healthcare, shares how her team expanded an MRI safety initiative in a rural imaging setting, strengthening safety protocols, training MR safety officers, and improving education for both staff and patients.  Sara Riskey, director of radiology at Unity Medical Center in North Dakota, highlights her radiation safety project, which used ProAqCT software to reduce CT head radiation dose by 11% without compromising image quality — an important step for a rural hospital serving an aging population. Along the way, guests reflect on leadership growth, lessons learned, and the value of saying “yes” to opportunity — whether through AHRA involvement, professional credentials, or grant applications.  ___________________________________________ Interested in funding a project that enhances patient care and safety in your imaging department? The Putting Patients First Grant Program, supported by Canon Medical, awards five grants of up to $10,000 each year to imaging leaders with innovative, patient-centered ideas. The next application window opens this fall. The Putting Patients First program is part of AHRA’s commitment to leadership development, innovation, and advancing the practice of medical imaging through collaboration with valued industry partners. AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management provides medical imaging professionals with education, training, insights, and community expertise to grow as healthcare leaders. Founded in 1973, our professional organization is a catalyst for healthcare improvement by setting the standard on quality care, innovative use of technologies, and best practices in medical imaging management. Learn more and connect with us at ahra.org.

  7. Mar 10

    From Capstone Project to Real Community Impact: Lisa Walling's Leaders of Choice Experience

    In the latest episode of Medical Imaging Matters, AHRA Executive Director Jason Newmark sits down with Lisa Walling, CRA, to talk leadership, community impact, and the power of leaning in to growth. Lisa walks us through her Leaders of Choice capstone project, a powerful screening initiative that is making a real impact on her community. After raising the bar to increase screening by more than 50% — including one exam that had life-saving effects — her team was able to strengthen community trust and redefine what’s possible when you collaborate across service lines.   Tune in as Jason and Lisa trace her journey from discovering AHRA in 2022 through a My Way session to becoming a visible, connected voice within the association. Lisa shares how the Leaders of Choice program pushed her beyond her comfort zone, built her confidence, and gave her the tools to help her team deliver extraordinary outcomes for patients and the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic. Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn or reach out via email at lisa.w@okcic.com. _____________________ Interested in building a project that elevates your leadership and makes a real difference in your community? Applications for AHRA’s Leaders of Choice opens later this spring. Learn more about the program and keep an eye out for updates from AHRA.  Leaders of Choice is a 12-month leadership learning experience from AHRA, sponsored by United Imaging, and facilitated by Traction Business Development. The program prepares senior imaging professionals to be the confident, next-level leaders needed to manage the increasingly complex healthcare environment. In addition to growing business, presentation, and financial skills, participants are challenged to be bold thinkers, capable of changing the status quo and choosing the path forward for their organizations. ________________________ Lisa Walling, CRA, has traversed various health care settings before finding her role as radiology director at Oklahoma City Indian Clinic. With two decades of leadership experience, she's adept at steering teams toward success. In 2001, she graduated from Baylor School of Radiologic Technology, and In 2023, Lisa achieved Certified Radiology Administrator (CRA) certification, further solidifying her expertise in the field. Committed to enhancing patient care and organizational excellence, she combines technical proficiency with strategic leadership to drive positive outcomes in radiology and healthcare overall. AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management provides medical imaging professionals with education, training, insights, and community expertise to grow as healthcare leaders. Founded in 1973, our professional organization is a catalyst for healthcare improvement by setting the standard on quality care, innovative use of technologies, and best practices in medical imaging management. Learn more and connect with us at ahra.org.

  8. Jan 8

    What Happens When Access Improves for Patients and Teams?

    Improving patient access isn’t just about filling schedules, it’s about creating breathing room for your staff and building a better patient experience.  In the latest episode of Medical Imaging Matters, AHRA Executive Director Jason Newmark is joined by Elyce Wolfgang (WellSpan Health) and Alex Pinto (ECG Management Consultants) to explore how smarter access strategies can ease pressure on teams, reduce burnout, and even help with retention. Tune in as the group discusses how access goes beyond scheduling and serves as a strategic lever for efficiency and better patient care. Alex shares a national perspective on why access is a growth engine and offers practical ways to make improvements without sacrificing care. Elyce brings a boots-on-the-ground perspective, including how her team is tackling MRI demand and using data-driven metrics to keep workflows efficient and staff supported. From foundational best practices to advanced strategies like AI-assisted scheduling and post-discharge imaging workflows, this episode offers fresh approaches to bring to your organization. Plus, learn how AHRA’s Best Practices Task Force is working to create benchmarking data that will help set a standard for medical imaging leaders to follow and raise the bar. Get In Touch With Elyce and Alex Elyce Wolfgang: ewolfgang@wellspan.org Alex Pinto: ampinto@ecgmc.com  ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Elyce Wolfgang currently serves as the system director of imaging services for WellSpan Health in Pennsylvania. In this role, she leads an exceptional team of six director-level and two manager-level leaders through strategy execution across a seven-hospital integrated delivery network. Her leadership focuses on enhancing patient and employee safety, optimizing workflows, and fostering employee engagement.  Previously, she served in various leadership roles in the radiology department at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, where she managed operations across various imaging modalities and led initiatives to enhance service delivery and staff development. Integrating his experiences as a clinician, an industry executive, and a consultant, Alex Pinto seeks to make big impacts for patients. Today’s healthcare consumers — both patients and providers alike — are more involved than ever before in making decisions related to care delivery and site of service. Alex is passionate about assessing problems and designing solutions to meet these consumer demands head on and supporting healthcare organizations through change, modernization, strategic realignment, and operational transformation. AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management provides medical imaging professionals with education, training, insights, and community expertise to grow as healthcare leaders. Founded in 1973, our professional organization is a catalyst for healthcare improvement by setting the standard on quality care, innovative use of technologies, and best practices in medical imaging management. Learn more and connect with us at ahra.org.

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About

Medical Imaging Matters is a podcast series covering the latest industry trends and best practices that matter most to medical imaging leaders. Each episode, AHRA will host experts in the field, including AHRA members, to talk about the topics that are presenting challenges or opportunities and discuss the resources that may be available.