By John Wallace
Pardon the cliché, but DJ Patel insists that he did not choose a career in imaging leadership. In fact, according to Patel, imaging chose him.
Patel’s journey began, innocently enough, behind the scenes in a basement office or maybe it was in some other windowless room deep inside the hospital. But, let Patel explain.
“I started in the industry as a biomed and took every opportunity to learn about medical equipment. I officially got into the ultrasound imaging side about 3 to 4 years ago,” he says. “I attended many different training schools offered by various vendors. I knew I wanted to get into management, so I pursued the degree. An opportunity came up at Deborah Heart and Lung Center in Browns Mills, New Jersey. I applied for it; I was promoted to the new Imaging Informatics (PACS) Manager.”
Patel completed his course work and earned an MBA in 2022, but that came after imaging selected him for a bright future via a rewarding health care career.
“I didn’t choose this field, the field chose me,” Patel says. “An opportunity came up, when we needed someone to learn ultrasounds in our department, so I took the opportunity. I never thought of being in the imaging field. Once I entered the profession it was a whole different world.”
Patel is focused on achieving new heights now that he is in the imaging realm.
“Hopefully, in the next 5 years, I can continue to progress upward in management, where I can help and make a difference for employees and patients,” he explains. “I love motivating people and listening to the ideas they can bring to the table.”
He enjoys many aspects of his job, especially the cutting-edge technology.
“I really enjoy learning new software, and how I can use my talents to help others make their jobs easier and fix issues so they can do the proper job to help our patients,” he says. “The best thing about my position is making sure I bring my team along with me, so that everyone is properly trained and has the information they need to do their jobs most effectively. The most rewarding thing about my job is patient safety. It’s a blessing to be part a team that everything you do will help someone do their job to help the patients.”
“I am just amazed by the innovation of advanced technology that is being developed for imaging, and how that is being used to help and treat patients,” Patel adds.
Every day brings a new challenge for Patel. He has enjoyed some success that was partially fueled by his previous work as a healthcare technology management professional.
“I have found several bugs in some of the manufacturers’ imaging systems and have been able to quickly correct them with the manufacturer’s help,” Patel explains. “I have also dealt with issues with manufacturers, where they didn’t believe me when I found an issue, and it turned out to be a recall.
1. What is your favorite hobby? I love music, so I DJ on the side. Music changes people’s moods and with music I can make memories for people at their events by making sure they have a great time.
2. What is your favorite vacation spot? India
3. Favorite food/food combination? Anything my mom or wife cooks is awesome. There are too many great dishes to name just one.
4. 1 thing on your bucket list? Visit Mount Kailesh in Tibet, India.
5. Any secret skills or talents? DJ.
In Focus Nomination
