Rising Star: Kelly Jo Buckley, RT (R)(M)(MR)

Ohio State University Lead MRI Technologist Kelly Jo Buckley, RT (R)(M)(MR), is currently earning a Bachelor of Biomedical Science in Diagnostic Imaging. She is an Ohio native eager to learn and make a positive impact on her community.

ICE Magazine recently found out more about this rising star, including her goal to one present at a healthcare conference and earn a master’s degree.

Q: Where did you grow up?

A: Martins Ferry, Ohio

Q: Where did you receive your imaging training/education? 

A: I was accepted into a hospital-based radiology program at Ohio Valley Medical Center in Wheeling, West Virginia that started a month after high school graduation. I took night classes at West Virginia Community College to obtain my associate degree. After passing my registry in radiology, I went on to take my registry in mammography and MRI as well. 

Q: How did you first decide to start working in imaging?

A:  I had a deep understanding and love for science. I would read for hours about anything from geology, astrology, exploration, gardening. I was very active and loved exploring. My mom was the one who talked me into pursing radiology. I excelled in all my science classes and was intrigued by anatomy. I remember dissecting a cat and frog in biology class and my lab partner wouldn’t touch it! I loved everything about those classes and once I started in radiology I was hooked!

Q: What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? 

A: One of the most rewarding aspects of working in MRI is the ability to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives. We play a critical role in helping the physicians diagnose and treat and working with them is a gift to be able to learn from them as well. Watching how our technical expertise contributes to improved outcomes is a powerful reminder of the importance of our work.

Q: What do you like most about your position?

A: The combination of technical expertise and patient interaction. It’s satisfying to operate advanced imaging technology while also making a patient feel comfortable and supported during their scans. I work with an amazing group of people and that makes my job even more rewarding. The ability to utilize different avenues of MRI in one day, whether it would be Functional MRI, Radiation Oncology, OR MRI, or scanning any and all devices! 

Q: What interests you the most about the imaging field?

A: The opportunity for learning and growth is constantly evolving with the advancements in technology. I’m always expanding my knowledge and staying at the forefront of innovation. This keeps me engaged and allows me to refine my skills. I enjoy improving processes. I’m very passionate about figuring out ways to improve work flow and productivity.

Q: What has been your greatest accomplishment in your field thus far?

A: Successful functional MRI program, developing a schedule template to improve patient work flow, involved in creating guidelines for conditional and non-conditional cardiac devices, involved in several committees such as the MRI optimization committee to improve turnaround times and effective utilization of order priority scoring project.

Q: What goals do you have for yourself in the next 5 years?

A: Present at a major healthcare conference. Complete my master’s in healthcare administration. 

Fun facts:

Favorite Hobby:
I love the outdoors! Anything from hiking to gardening.

Favorite Show:
I don’t typically watch TV, but opt to read instead

Favorite Food:
Seafood!

Favorite vacation spot:
I love travelling and seeing new things, but my family and I spend a week every year at the same beach in North Carolina.

1 Thing on Your Bucket List:
Travel outside the country

Something your co-workers don’t know about you:
I played the trumpet in the band in elementary school.