Courses and Schedule

Collaboration is something most people value yet struggle with putting into practice when working with others. This session is about creating the right mindset and practicing skills to help attendees expand the contributions of others while understanding how their own actions can affect other people and outcomes. Attendees will learn tips and tools on how to work with others more effectively, connect more authentically and engage more respectfully.

Nan Gesche, M.A.

Objectives

• Ignite attendees’ role as collaboration catalysts — understand how personal actions shape team energy, trust and results.
• Communicate for connection — use small communication tweaks that demonstrate respect, strengthen bonds and inspire follow-through.
• Turn feedback into fuel — give and receive input so it motivates, empowers and lifts performance.

Medical imaging and radiation therapy educators prepare students to encounter patients and colleagues from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences during their clinical rotations. It is important that radiologic technologists use effective communication skills, including listening and empathy, to meet patients where they are and provide culturally appropriate care. To that end, educators need strategies for teaching students about barriers to care and methods for adapting to patient needs, including data-informed educational program policies, community collaboration and interpersonal engagement. In this session, the speakers will share specific examples of holding students accountable for behavior that promotes professionalism and quality patient care in the learning environment, which will extend into future clinical practice.

Kerry Dunn, Ed.D., R.T.(R)(M)
Christine Eckenrod, M.S., R.T.(R)(CT)(MR)
Corey Hidalgo, M.S.H.A., R.T.(R)
Darren Wells, M.H.P.T., R.T.(R)

Objectives

• Learn strategies for teaching students about patient-centered and culturally appropriate care, including listening and empathy.
• Understand barriers, health outcomes (including morbidity and mortality), social factors, patient-centered care and health literacy.
• Synthesize methods for adapting to patient and colleague needs, including data-informed educational program policies, community collaboration and interpersonal engagement.
• Define what patient-centered care is in today’s medical imaging and radiation therapy environment.
• Identify core components of patient-centered care today.

In this session, the speaker will prepare attendees to proactively address the risk to medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals of verbal abuse, physical threats and harassment from patients and visitors. The speaker will cover the importance of adopting zero tolerance policies, creating standard operation procedures which outline escalation protocols, and using legal remedies such as patient discharge, restraining orders and criminal charges if needed. The speaker will also examine the legal consequences of failing to respond appropriately to staff harassment. Attendees will learn the importance of providing customer service and de-escalation training for all members of an organization and teaching them how to respond if faced with harassment. The speaker will also address the importance of training staff to recognize what harassment can look like, documenting all instances of zero tolerance violations and having all patients sign a code of conduct document. Leaders will be empowered to create and foster safer, more respectful workplaces.

Lisbet Williams, B.S., R.T.(T)(CT), CMD

Objectives

• Define and recognize inappropriate behavior in health care settings, including verbal abuse, physical threats and harassment.
• Explain how comprehensive customer service and de-escalation training can reduce the risk of situations escalating into conflict.
• Explain the importance of zero tolerance policies in medical imaging and radiation therapy environments.
• Describe appropriate management responses and escalation protocols.
• Explain the legal consequences of failing to respond to staff harassment.
• Create and cultivate a safe and respectful working environment in medical imaging and radiation therapy departments.

In this session, the speakers will examine the modern multimodality approach to diagnosing pulmonary embolism. They will provide a detailed comparison of primary techniques, including computed tomography pulmonary angiography and ventilation/perfusion scans, along with the situational uses of chest radiography, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound. The speakers will also address how clinical evaluation guides modality selection, and they will conclude by exploring the emerging role of artificial intelligence in enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of PE detection.

Rodney Fisher, Ph.D., R.T.(R)(N)(CT)(BD), CNMT
Kimberly Onstott, Ed.D., R.T.(R)(CT)(MR), MRSO

Objectives

• Explain the pathophysiology of a pulmonary embolism, including its associated morbidity and mortality.
• Compare the roles of computed tomography pulmonary angiography and ventilation/perfusion scans in the diagnosis of PE.
• Discuss the utility and limitations of alternative modalities (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging, venous ultrasound and echocardiography) for evaluating PE.
• Evaluate each modality and determine when one imaging modality should be used vs. another.
• Discuss the emerging role of artificial intelligence in the diagnostic imaging of PE, including its potential benefits and current limitations.

In this course, the speaker offers certification and registration candidates a better understanding of the purpose and structure of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. The speaker will discuss obtaining and maintaining ARRT certification and registration to help attendees understand the ARRT Equation for Excellence. Attendees will also learn about the resources available to help them interact successfully with the ARRT.

Candice Johnstone, M.D., M.P.H., FAAWR, FACR

Objectives

• Describe the mission of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and state its Equation for Excellence.
• List valuable resources available to students.
• Summarize the purpose of continuing education.
• Discuss resources and opportunities to interact with the ARRT.

Education is central to advancing the profession, yet the role of educators in medical imaging and radiation therapy is often undervalued compared to clinical specialties. Nursing recognizes nurse educators as advanced practice providers, supported by the National League for Nursing’s certified nurse educator credentials. Should medical imaging and radiation therapy follow this path? In this session, the speaker will explore education as a potential advanced practice specialty and examine avenues for formal recognition, including certification, credentialing and other models. The speaker will also share findings from a study on educator credentialing to frame the discussion, along with the evolving competencies required to teach effectively in today’s health care environment. Through interactive discussion and engagement, attendees will contribute their perspectives on advancing educator recognition. Attendees will also leave with strategies for advocating for education as advanced practice and strengthening the professional identity of medical imaging and radiation therapy educators.

Kevin R. Clark, Ed.D., R.T.(R)(QM), FASRT, FAEIRS

Objectives

• Compare how educator roles are recognized in nursing and in medical imaging and radiation therapy.
• Summarize findings from a study on educator credentialing.
• Discuss multiple pathways for advancing recognition of educators as advanced practice.
• Engage in dialogue to identify advocacy strategies for strengthening educator identity.

The escalating use of medical imaging contrast agents and radiopharmaceuticals has inadvertently introduced a class of emerging environmental contaminants with a critical ecological footprint. In this session, the speakers will synthesize a new understanding of these risks, which are deeply interconnected across a tripartite framework: direct patient safety (e.g., contrast-induced nephropathy, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, and gadolinium deposition disease), supply chain fragility, and environmental persistence (heavy metal or radionuclide burden). The speakers will discuss the profound potential of artificial intelligence and deep learning models to achieve true upstream source reduction by generating high-fidelity diagnostic images from low-dose or noncontrast data (virtual contrast). This discussion will include advancements in and the principles of green radiopharmacy. The speakers will conclude by presenting a systems-level approach: integrating upstream source elimination, midstream clinical practice optimization and downstream waste management innovation to ensure the sustainable practice of medical imaging.

Kimberly Onstott, Ed.D., R.T.(R)(CT)(MR), MRSO
Rodney Fisher, Ph.D., R.T.(R)(N)(CT)(BD), CNMT

Objectives

• Identify the tripartite framework of interconnected risks associated with contrast agents and radiopharmaceuticals: direct patient safety (e.g., contrast-induced nephropathy and gadolinium deposition disease), supply chain fragility, and environmental persistence.
• Explain why the chemical stability required for imaging agents’ clinical efficacy directly leads to their long-term environmental burden (e.g., heavy metal or radionuclide contamination).
• Describe the principles of green radiopharmacy and how they represent a foundational shift toward more resilient production and responsible waste accounting in nuclear medicine.
• Evaluate artificial intelligence and deep learning as powerful upstream solutions for source reduction through virtual contrast enhancement from low-dose or noncontrast data.
• Summarize the holistic, systems-level approach needed to ensure sustainable imaging: integrating upstream (AI), midstream (clinical optimization) and downstream (waste management) innovations.

Pediatric abdominal imaging presents unique diagnostic challenges and remains a high-yield area of practice and education for medical imaging professionals. In this session, the speaker will review the most common and clinically significant abdominal pathologies encountered in pediatric imaging, emphasizing their imaging appearances across modalities, differential diagnosis and clinical management implications. Content will include conditions such as renal abnormalities (e.g., Wilms tumor), gastrointestinal conditions (e.g., appendicitis), hepatobiliary disorders and more. The speaker will use case-based examples to discuss imaging findings, pitfalls and documentation strategies. This session will benefit technologists, educators and clinical instructors by strengthening their ability to mentor students in recognizing critical pediatric pathologies and by bridging the gap between academic training and clinical application.

Jenna N. Laquerre, M.S., R.T.(R), RDMS (AB, OB/GYN, PS, BR), RVT

Objectives

• Analyze the imaging characteristics of the most common pediatric abdominal pathologies across modalities, including renal, gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary conditions.
• Differentiate and compare overlapping imaging appearances to strengthen diagnostic accuracy and reduce common pitfalls in pediatric abdominal imaging.
• Discuss the significance of incorporating clinical history, patient presentation and laboratory correlation into the interpretation of pediatric abdominal imaging findings.
• Implement case-based teaching strategies that enhance learners’ ability to recognize, document and interpret pediatric abdominal pathologies in both academic and clinical training environments.

In this session, the speaker will provide information about the radiologist assistant role, giving an overview of the educational requirements, available programs, requirements for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists registered radiologist assistant exam, and job and salary expectations. The speaker will also discuss the hurdles associated with the radiologist assistant role, including the Medicare Access to Radiology Care Act — better known as MARCA — and state licensure.

Elizabeth Eslich, M.S.R.S., R.R.A., R.T.(R)(VI)

Objectives

• Describe the radiologist assistant practice area.
• Explain the role of the radiologist assistant in the medical imaging department.
• Recall the educational pathway, educational program options, and salary and job expectations of the radiologist assistant.
• Identify legislative initiatives related to the radiologist assistant at both the state and federal levels.
• Differentiate between the radiologist assistant, nurse practitioner and physician assistant.

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence into academic and professional writing presents both opportunities and challenges for authors in the radiologic sciences. In this session, the speakers will explore the capabilities and limitations of AI tools, highlighting how they can assist with brainstorming, outlining and improving clarity without replacing original thought. Attendees will examine ethical considerations surrounding AI-generated content and review ASRT editorial policies regarding authorship and responsible AI use. The speakers will provide practical strategies for crafting precise prompts and evaluating AI-generated suggestions for accuracy and relevance while maintaining the author’s voice. Attendees will leave equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate AI responsibly, ensuring their manuscripts uphold the highest standards of integrity and originality.

Vesna Balać, Ed.D., R.T.(R)(MR)
Bethany Stearns, M.S., R.T.(R)(MR)(CT)

Objectives

• Describe the capabilities and limitations of artificial intelligence tools in academic and professional writing.
• Explain how AI can support brainstorming, outlining and enhancing clarity while preserving original thought.
• Identify ethical considerations when incorporating AI-generated content into manuscripts.
• Summarize ASRT’s editorial policies regarding AI-generated text and authorship.
• Distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable uses of AI in submissions.
• Demonstrate how to craft clear, specific prompts to generate useful ideas without compromising originality.
• Apply critical evaluation skills to review and edit AI-generated suggestions for accuracy, relevance and appropriateness.

In this session, the speakers will explore the complex relationship between toxic work culture, burnout and the evolving landscape of radiologic science clinical practice in a post-pandemic world. While the COVID-19 pandemic did not create toxic environments or burnout in health care, it magnified both while exposing systemic issues, administrative failures and the psychological toll placed on health care professionals. In this session, the speakers will share personal insights from working in both toxic and supportive environments, offering a candid, research-informed discussion on the warning signs of burnout, including emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment. The aim of this session is to destigmatize open conversations around burnout, empower radiologic science professionals and students to advocate for healthier work cultures, and encourage institutional changes that promote wellness, connection and long-term engagement in the profession.

Kerry Dunn, Ed.D., R.T.(R)(M)
Jennifer Mashburn, M.P.H., R.T.(R)(VI)

Objectives

• Identify the characteristics of a toxic workplace culture.
• Describe the psychological and physiological effects of workplace toxicity.
• Explain the role of organizational structures in workplace toxicity.
• Analyze the relationship between toxic workplaces and burnout.
• Define strategies to mitigate burnout in toxic work environments.

In this session, the speaker will provide magnetic resonance imaging technologists and allied imaging professionals with best practices for remote MRI scanning, emphasizing technologist ergonomics to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders, patient safety protocols in remote environments and the emerging role of the imaging assistant in MRI. Attendees will explore ergonomic workstation design, safety communication workflows and collaborative practices between remote and onsite staff to ensure safe, efficient and high-quality imaging.

Bernadette Mele, D.H.Sc., R.T.(R)(MR), MRSO

Objectives

• Identify common ergonomic risk factors for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, including those unique to remote scanning environments.
• Describe patient safety protocols and communication strategies specific to remote MRI workflows.
• Explain the responsibilities and scope of practice of the imaging assistant in MRI.
• Discuss best-practice strategies to integrate ergonomic awareness, patient safety and team coordination in remote MRI operations.

More than two decades have passed since the launch of the first Master of Science in radiologic sciences program, yet little research has examined the real-world impact of this degree on the radiologic science profession. In this session, the speakers share findings from a recent study investigating how M.S.R.S. graduates have leveraged their advanced education in professional practice, leadership, education and scholarship. The results highlight key trends in career advancement, professional contributions and the evolving role of M.S.R.S.-prepared practitioners. Based on these insights, the speakers will offer recommendations for curriculum design, program outcomes and strategies to support the continued growth and relevance of M.S.R.S. programs.

Laura Aaron, Ph.D., R.T.(R)(M)(QM), FASRT, FAEIRS
Kevin R. Clark, Ed.D., R.T.(R)(QM), FASRT, FAEIRS
Jeff Killion, Ph.D., R.T.(R)(QM)

Objectives

• Discuss the impact of the Master of Science in radiologic sciences degree on professional advancement.
• Identify key contributions that M.S.R.S. graduate students have had on the profession, leadership, education and scholarship.
• Describe recommendations for the continued evolution of M.S.R.S. programs.

Atrium Health has implemented innovative strategies to expand the professional role of radiation therapists and enhance career satisfaction. By developing an expanded career ladder, establishing a dedicated R.T.(T) educator role and creating an internal travel therapist position, the organization provides new avenues for growth, leadership and flexibility. Additionally, the expansion of the radiation therapist assistant position introduces recent high school graduates to the discipline, fostering early interest in radiation therapy. These initiatives aim to address workforce challenges, improve job satisfaction and promote professional development within the radiation oncology team.

Jessica VanMarter, M.B.A., R.T.(R)(T)
Heather Welker, M.H.S., R.T.(R)(T)

Objectives

• Develop strategies for creating and implementing a clinical ladder to support career advancement for radiation therapists.
• Recognize the role and responsibilities of the R.T.(T) educator.
• Identify the opportunities provided by the internal travel therapist position.
• Explain the significance of the radiation therapist assistant position in fostering early interest in the discipline.
• Discuss the overall impact of these initiatives on workforce challenges and job satisfaction.

In this session, the speaker will present research that compares the relationship between fetal kidney length, placental thickness and gestational age in a cohort of second- and third-trimester pregnancies. The standard parameters measured in the second trimester tend to lose accuracy as the pregnancy progresses into the third trimester. Not one of these parameters is accurate for dating in the third trimester, as the standard deviation for these parameters in comparison to gestational age widens. Emerging research shows a strong, positive relationship between fetal kidney length, placental thickness and gestational age compared to the standard parameters. Currently, the standard parameters are accurate within 21 days. New research has shown that kidney length and placental thickness are more accurate in correlating to gestational age than the standard parameters. The speaker will share research that calculates the accuracy of placental thickness and kidney length in comparison to gestational age.

Jennifer Clark, M.S.R.S., R.T.(R), RDMS

Objectives

• Compare fetal parameters to gestational age.
• Describe which parameters are most accurate to calculate gestational age.
• Discuss reasons why gestational age calculation is crucial in obstetrics.

Neurodivergence is a term that not every person has heard before or understands. In this session, the speaker will define neurodivergence and educate attendees on what it means in the workplace. The speaker will also give insight into how to best support co-workers with different neurodivergent conditions as well as provide tips on how to make medical imaging and radiation therapy examinations and procedures more tolerable for neurodivergent patients.

Jennifer Mashburn, M.P.H., R.T.(R)(VI)

Objectives

• Describe what neurodivergence is.
• Recognize conditions that are considered neurodivergent.
• Identify strengths and weaknesses of neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.
• Discuss how to better support neurodivergent patients during medical imaging and radiation therapy examinations and procedures.
• Improve support for neurodivergent co-workers.

In this session, the speaker explores the emerging field of digital twinning in medical imaging — a transformative technology that creates dynamic, virtual replicas of patients using real-time imaging data, artificial intelligence and advanced modeling. Designed for radiologic technologists, educators, students and administrators, this session will demystify the concept of digital twins, highlight current and future applications in diagnostic imaging, and discuss the implications for clinical practice, education and patient care. Attendees will gain insight into how digital twinning is reshaping personalized medicine and the evolving role of imaging professionals in this digital frontier.

Kori L. Stewart, Ph.D., R.T.(R)(CT), CIIP

Objectives

• Define the concept of digital twinning and its foundational technologies in the context of medical imaging.
• Describe current and emerging applications of digital twins in radiology and diagnostic imaging.
• Identify the potential benefits and challenges of implementing digital twinning in clinical workflows.
• Discuss the ethical, regulatory and data privacy considerations associated with digital twin technologies.
• Envision future directions and educational needs for integrating digital twinning into radiologic science curricula and practice.