By Erin Register
Alpana Patel Camilli is the manager of diagnostic radiology at the University of California San Francisco Medical Center. She acquired an associate degree in 1994 after becoming a radiologic technologist and is currently working on a master’s of health administration. Camilli also has her Certified Radiology Administrator (CRA) credential from the AHRA. Today, she lives in Pacifica, California and manages the diagnostic radiology department at the UCSF Radiology, Helen Diller and Mt. Zion campuses.
Camilli was nominated to be featured as a Rising Star by UCSF Medical Center Principal Radiologic Technologist Supervisor David Poon, who said Camilli has “made a significant impact in our department addressing the needs of COVID-19.”
ICE learned more about this Rising Star in a question-and-answer interview.
Q: Why did you choose to get into this field?
A: My brother is a neuro and interventional radiologist, and my uncle is a body radiologist. Several older cousins are radiologists and technologists. I’d say radiology is woven into our family story. I tried other majors in school and was not inspired. My brother recommended becoming a technologist, so I trusted his advice and applied to school. After the first few weeks in the program – imaging, caring for patients and working with technology – I realized this was the right path for me. I’ve never looked back since.
Q: What do you like most about your position?
A: I like working alongside the technologists and patients. I also like that I can be and create the change within the department, inspiring my team to grow and be the change they’d like to see in the world and others. I like to make sure that I’m not so far removed as a manager; encouraging, supporting and helping the technologists reach their goals.
Q: What interests you the most about the imaging field?
A: The ever-changing technology and dynamic way that radiology can be utilized to take care of patients interest me the most. It’s also very interesting working with departments outside of radiology.
Q: What has been your greatest accomplishment in the field thus far?
A: My greatest accomplishment has been landing/earning a role where my particular skills can make a difference with a patient, a tech and within my community.
Q: What goals do you have for yourself in the next five years?
A: I want to continue creating dynamic and caring teams. I also want to ensure that those who seek success with integrity, a willingness to work and provide genuine care for our patients have a path to reach their goals. I’d also like to continue being a part of UCSF Radiology. They provide me with a path to care for and support our community. The director and management team is absolutely supportive and encouraging of my ideas and endeavors to continually improve not only the department but myself.
