Dr. Smetherman, a Breast Imager and former Chair of Radiology and Associate Medical Director at Ochsner Medical Center, shares her journey from neurology residency to national leadership at the ACR. Her journey reflects a willingness to step back, assess, and pursue the areas where she could make the greatest impact on patients and the profession.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

1️⃣ Her Career Path

Dr. Smetherman opens up about transitioning from neurology to radiology and eventually into leadership, demonstrating the importance of finding the right clinical and professional fit.

2️⃣ Why Advocacy Matters

Under her leadership, the ACR has helped reclaim $1.4 billion in Medicare reimbursement for radiologists (2021–2024).

3️⃣ Legislative Insights

She explains how policies like the ROOT Act and Appropriate Use Criteria can help reduce unnecessary imaging and address radiologist burnout and workforce shortages.

4️⃣ The Power of Membership

Dr. Smetherman emphasizes how ACR dues fund lobbying and economic initiatives, making membership a key tool for securing radiology’s future.

5️⃣ AI in Radiology

Learn how ACR tools like ARCH-AI and Assess-AI are helping practices implement AI responsibly, measure performance, and ensure quality care.

6️⃣ Capitol Hill Advocacy

Hear how a simple act, encouraging radiologists to wear white coats to congressional meetings, made an outsized impact in radiology advocacy.