[SPONSORED] Banner Health

 

 

From HealthCare Administrator to Imaging Patient: A Journey Through Perspective

By Kara Mayeaux

For more than 22 years, I’ve worked in the medical imaging field. I chose medical imaging because it encompassed a wide array of procedures and technologies – all of which interested me. As someone who appreciates multi-tasking, I quickly was immersed in the diversity, challenges and opportunities this field provided. I also understood that a journey in this field could – and ultimately would – lead to leadership roles.

My learning journey began working alongside radiologists, waiting on them patiently to finish up a dictation to rush them to perform the following procedure. After witnessing countless interruptions, I realized I would become an advocate for educating team members on the importance of the radiologists’ role and how to be respectful of their time.  

I began to advance into leadership roles, first serving as a site manager and then moving into my current role as the operations director for Banner Imaging. I’ve worked on building teams, focusing on collaboration and instituting cross-training objectives. It’s all about perspective – giving team members the opportunities to understand and be immersed in the diversity, challenges and opportunities connected to each role within the business. Not only does this bring awareness, but it also brings about heightened respect for one another. 

We focus on patient care through perspective, and the phrase, “Every time, every patient, every moment,” has become our mantra. This mantra is at our core because it upholds our commitment to providing excellent care.

Throughout my professional journey, I’ve personally learned perspective.

Having worked alongside radiologists and technologists, I’ve always respected their roles. Many patients need scans and are awaiting results that can potentially change their lives. As radiologists and technologists, your focus must always be steadfast and accurate. You’re the person who determines the good or bad news – and I’ve been a part of it. I’ve often stood there as patients hear the words, “You have cancer.” 

One day in early 2022, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Suddenly, after 22 years in the medical imaging field, I was the patient. I was now being treated and cared for by the very team I worked with. I knew what went on behind the scenes as the diagnosis came, but I’d never experienced it as the patient. I was scared and overwhelmed – a million thoughts and questions swirling in my head – as my new reality hit me. But the compassion, genuine concern and support the team showed in delivering the news gave me hope and comfort.

By the grace of God, prayer and excellent doctors and technologists, I got through my diagnosis and came out the other side with strengthened faith and heightened respect for what we do every day in the medical imaging field. The radiologists, imaging assistants, referral coordinators, technologists, site managers and all others in this field work hard, doing important work that impacts countless people daily. 

As November approaches, I encourage those who work with, know of, or have family members or friends who work in this field to celebrate National Radiologic Technology Week. Happening from November 6-12, this year’s theme is “Aiming to Heal.” 

Our radiology team members aim to heal, and we should celebrate their commitment to our care with every time, every patient and every moment. •