Radiology training program earns national recognition

UW’s radiology training program was peer-nominated and chosen by a panel of industry experts as the best in category for its strength in research, faculty expertise and contributions to the field of radiation oncology.

“We may be new to the national discussion, but our efforts and initiatives have been making noticeable changes and producing top radiologists for many years,” said Thomas Grist, MD, chair of the Department of Radiology. “This award is a testament to all who have made such strong contributions to our training programs in so many ways.”

Judges cited the publication of several important studies this past year from department faculty on the use of PET/CT in detecting Alzheimer’s disease, gadolinium usage in MRI, breast MRI screening and CT colonography screening. Other deciding factors included:

• The department’s recruitment of David Bluemke, MD, incoming editor of the flagship journal of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), Radiology
• The reputation of Perry Pickhardt, MD, who last year was named by AuntMinnie.com as the most influential radiology researcher
• The contributions of Fred Lee, MD, who pioneered the therapeutic technology called microwave tumor ablation, and who went on to found three companies dedicated to cancer treatment: Cellectar Biosciences, NeuWave Medical and Elucent Medical

David Kim, MD, vice chair of radiology and director of the residency training program, says the program’s success would not be possible without the many dedicated faculty who are committed to training the next generation of radiologists.

“We know there has been something special going on in our program for the last eight to 10 years, and it’s very rewarding for all of us to see it being recognized on a national level.”

UW’s radiology residency program consists of eight residents per class for a total of 32 trainees each year.