Letter from the Chair
Now that 2024 is over, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been another remarkable year for our department. Together, we have achieved significant progress in research, education, and clinical practice, and I am deeply grateful for your dedication and hard work.
One of the highlights of the year was the remarkable growth in research funding and our expanding research division. New faculty members brought fresh expertise to our team, with physician-scientists leading groundbreaking work in MRI technical development, CT evaluation, molecular imaging, interventional radiology, and artificial intelligence. Their efforts drive innovation and enhance our reputation as a leader in radiological research.
Under the leadership of Dr. Sam Abboud, Emergency Radiology services continued to expand. Last summer, we welcomed three new team members to this vital division, and by the end of this year we will provide full overnight emergency imaging services across all hospitals within the Northwestern Medicine (NM) network. This development represents a significant milestone in our commitment to providing round-the-clock, high-quality imaging care.
Our educational programs also continued to garner recognition. Northwestern McGaw was a semifinalist for the 2024 Aunt Minnie Best Radiologist Training Program, a testament to our outstanding training environment. Moreover, Diagnostic Radiology and Interventional Radiology remain top choices for medical students, with Diagnostic Radiology ranked as the number one elective and Interventional Radiology at number three. Positive feedback from students, including visiting trainees, reflected the excellence of our faculty and curriculum.
Incorporating advanced technology into our work remains a priority. The use of AI tools by our radiologists has improved workflow efficiency, and ongoing evaluations promise even greater integration of AI into subspecialty areas, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and operational effectiveness.
We are also expanding our clinical footprint with several exciting developments. In addition to our established outpatient imaging centers in Evanston, Old Irving Park, and Oakbrook, we are thrilled to announce the opening of a new center in Bronzeville in September 2025. This initiative aligns with our mission to improve health equity, delivering high-quality radiological care—including breast and lung cancer screening—directly to underserved communities in Chicago.
On the horizon, we look forward to the creation of a state-of-the-art Center of Excellence in Theranostics and Molecular Imaging on the fourth floor of the Arkes Pavilion. This facility, featuring cutting-edge imaging equipment such as PET-CT and SPECT-CT, radioisotope uptake rooms, and expanded infusion therapy facilities, represents our commitment to advancing cancer care services within the NM network.
Additionally, plans are underway for a new outpatient imaging center on the first floor of the Arkes Pavilion. Designed with sustainability in mind, this center will house innovative CT and MRI scanners and is set to become the region's first environmentally friendly radiology facility.
As we look ahead to 2025, I am inspired by the opportunities before us. New facilities, advanced technology, and expanded services will position us to better integrate education, research, and clinical practice, ultimately benefiting the patients we serve.
Thank you for your continued commitment to excellence and innovation. I look forward to another year of growth and achievement with all of you.