Last year, from October 12-15, I had the invaluable opportunity to visit Keck Medical Center as part of the AHRA Partners in Learning program. This experience was designed to provide insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of leadership within radiology and the practices employed in a hospital setting. The visit allowed me to engage directly with the department’s leadership team, including Director Mark Steffen, FAHRA, CRA, several radiology managers, and technologists across various modalities.

During my time at Keck, I observed a diverse range of leadership styles and approaches. Mark exemplified a hands-on leadership philosophy, maintaining close involvement in ongoing projects and operational challenges. My time shadowing Mark and observing his daily tasks offered valuable insight into his thought processes and problem-solving methods. He has well-founded philosophies on addressing challenges, combined with a broad understanding of radiology’s role within the larger hospital system — insights that were both enlightening and inspiring.

Pictured above: Hospital Entrance to Keck Medical Center.

Similarly, the managers demonstrated a strong commitment to their teams and departmental goals, fostering a culture of open communication and continuous improvement. The technologists I met displayed professionalism and dedication in their respective roles, further emphasizing the importance of effective leadership in creating a motivated and competent workforce.

One of the standout aspects of the visit was observing the daily huddles that leadership teams conducted. These gatherings were not only informative, but also a clear reflection of the positive culture within the radiology department. The emphasis on collaboration and transparency during these sessions underscored the proactive approach to managing workflow and addressing issues promptly.

A particularly impactful moment of my experience was witnessing the robust safety initiatives implemented across the various modalities. Each team consistently prioritized patient and staff safety, integrating protocols seamlessly into their daily routines. Moreover, the leadership’s persistent drive to refine operations and streamline processes demonstrated a genuine commitment to excellence. Their open-door communication style encouraged technologists to share feedback and actively participate in shaping their work environment.

Safety Measured Within the MRI Department

Left: A nurse display and where metal could be located within scrubs. The detector on the wall also will show what height someone might have metal on their person and will light up at that level. Right: A standard warning and stop sign for anyone entering the MRI zone 4.

The visit also sparked new ideas for my own department. Seeing effective processes and leadership strategies at Keck inspired me to introduce some of these approaches locally, aiming to enhance communication, safety, and operational efficiency in my workplace.

This visit has profoundly influenced my perspective on leadership within radiology. It reinforced the value of adaptable leadership styles tailored to the needs of the team and institution. I was especially inspired by the passion each leader exhibited, not only in supporting their staff but also in their pursuit of personal growth as leaders. Their dedication to fostering an environment conducive to staff well-being and optimal patient care was evident throughout my visit.

This experience opened my eyes to the vast opportunities AHRA offers. It has motivated me to engage more actively within the organization and deepen my understanding of radiology practices across the country. This exposure has broadened my professional horizons and inspired me to continue learning beyond my own department.

I would highly recommend AHRA's Partners in Learning program to any professional seeking to broaden their understanding of radiology leadership. It offers a unique window into the challenges and opportunities faced by institutions and illustrates the diverse pathways leaders take to reach their roles. This program provided me with practical insights and renewed motivation to enhance leadership practices within my own workplace.

AHRA's Partners in Learning is a grant program sponsored by Bayer that allows AHRA members to visit and learn from another healthcare facility to gain insights into day-to-day issues like patient safety, equipment, and staffing. The program is open to all AHRA members regardless of experience, rank, or former participation. Learn more and how you can apply to become a host or guest.