Michigan Radiological Society Mission: Promoting Science and the Highest Radiology Standards

In October 1921, Preston M. Hickey, MD, called for a meeting to establish a local Detroit radiological society. This was the first meeting of the Michigan Radiological Society (MRS), and since its inception, MRS has been a home for thousands of practitioners in radiology.

As President of the MRS Resident and Fellow Section, I am proud of the organization’s mission of promoting science and the highest radiology standards. Each year, the MRS Resident and Fellow Section President and board members host an annual resident chapter meeting, where trainees from radiology residencies in Michigan gather to learn from excellent speakers and exhibit their research.

Most recently, our keynote speaker included Sonia Gupta, MD, Senior Medical Director of Rad AI, who provided invaluable advice on choosing the right radiology career. Another lecturer included professor Matt S. Davenport, MD, FACR, a nationally renowned physician and researcher from the University of Michigan, who captivated the audience with his enlightening speech on life values and careers. Our conference closed by showcasing resident scholarly activities, and the top projects were featured at the annual Preston M. Hickey Memorial Lecture.

The MRS Resident and Fellow Section advocates for radiology on a state legislative level. Under the leadership of MRS lobbyist James Cavanagh, JD, we host an annual legislative day to promote the best radiology practices for patient care. Last year, Michelle Shnayder-Adams, MD, MPH, former MRS Resident and Fellow Chapter President, educated the Michigan legislative body on the in-depth, multifaceted training received in radiology residency and the career beyond. Lifelong learning is a testament to radiologists’ dedication and skill, which are essential for the best patient outcomes and healthcare policies.

The past year marked a centennial milestone for the MRS, and we celebrated our 100th anniversary gala. Incredible speakers at the gala included James Thrall, MD, FACR, founder and editor of the “Requisites in Radiology” textbook series, who impacted the education of all residents in attendance. The gala was an incredible success and one that would go down in MRS history as we reflect on how far we have come and the opportunities ahead.

I am proud of what this organization offers in resident leadership, activism and scholarship. We provide opportunities for residents across Michigan to congregate in a common hall, enjoy a meal and grow together. This, amongst our other endeavors, is the continued vision that Dr. Hickey created 100 years ago.