Please join us on Monday, March 10 at 4:00 PM ET to learn how to navigate the CLIMB 2025 product in AHRA's Online Institute, how to access live sessions during CLIMB, and then how to view the on-demand library of content so that you can earn up to 34.5 CE credits!

Date/Time:

Monday, March 10 - 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM ET
A recorded version will be available after this session takes place. 

Speaker: 

Kat Mathis, Senior Coordinator, AHRA Education & Learning Services

Description: 

Join us for an informative webinar designed to equip CLIMB registrants with the essential knowledge and skills to seamlessly navigate the conference platform. Whether you are a seasoned attendee or a first-time participant, this webinar will provide you with invaluable tips and tricks to make the most out of your virtual conference experience. AHRA's Senior Coordinator of Education, Kat Mathis, will walk you through the various features and functionalities of the virtual platform, including how to access live sessions, engage with speakers and fellow attendees, and participate in networking opportunities. You will learn how to save sessions to your calendar, complete session evaluations and post-tests, and troubleshoot common technical issues, ensuring that you can fully immerse yourself in the conference content without any hiccups. Don't miss this opportunity to gain confidence and proficiency in using the virtual conference platform, empowering you to connect, learn, and collaborate effectively throughout the event. And don't worry if you can't make it to this webinar on March 10—the recording will be available for you to watch at your convenience!

Cost:

This session is free for CLIMB registrants.

Kick off CLIMB Online 2025 with our keynote presentation, "The Climb to Leadership Excellence: Awareness, Acceptance, Action" presented by Sean E. Mahar, MA; Thought Leader for Sean E. Mahar & Associates, LLC. The session will take place live on Thursday, March 13 at 9:30 AM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Thursday, March 13 - 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM ET

Speaker: 

Sean E. Mahar, MA; Thought Leader for Sean E. Mahar & Associates, LLC

Description: 

Building upon the CLIMB theme, this presentation introduces leadership and communication principles & practices that are both solid (grounded in nature and proven research) and disruptive, even controversial (some of this work improves upon many current and popular practices).

Using a mountain climbing metaphor, this presentation is divided into 3 camps traditionally used as climbers make progress towards the summit. A base camp is crucial for mountaineers as it serves as a central hub at the base of a mountain, providing a place for mental preparation, a place to acclimatize to altitude and attitude, and a place to organize and prepare for further work. Our Base Camp, Awareness, focuses on 8 foundation principles. The second camp, Acceptance, focuses on specific aspects of leadership science and research that have been shifting over the last 20 – 30 years on perception and the power of language. Our last camp, Action, provides descriptions of several immediate actions leaders can take to begin harvesting the benefits of this presentation.

Session Category:

Leadership

Join us for the Established Leader session, "Coding & Compliance - What you Need to Know Today" presented by Melody Mulaik, MSHS, CRA, RCC, RCC-IR, FAHRA; President, Revenue Cycle Coding Strategies LLC. The session will take place live on Thursday, March 13 at 11:00 AM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Thursday, March 13 - 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM ET

Speaker: 

Melody Mulaik, MSHS, CRA, RCC, RCC-IR, FAHRA; President, Revenue Cycle Coding Strategies LLC

Description: 

Staying on top of new codes, regulatory updates and other key issues in the radiology industry is challenging.  This session will focus on the key updates and potential concerns that you need to focus on today.  The new MR safety codes will be reviewed in detail to ensure correct documentation and coding of these services.  The new telemedicine codes will also be reviewed to identify if there are opportunities for your interventionalists to bill for any of these services.  Other key areas of interest including, but not limited to, supervision, extenders, payer challenges for CT, MR, and more will be reviewed to identify areas of potential concern and opportunity.  

Session Category:

Coding and Compliance 

Regulatory

Thank you to our in-kind sponsor, Revenue Cycle Coding Strategies LLC 

Join us for the Aspiring Leader session, "Introduction to Imaging Informatics" presented by Ken Fazzino, BA, FAHRA, Consultant. The session will take place live on Thursday March 13 at 11:00 AM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Thursday March 13 - 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM ET

Speaker: 

Ken Fazzino, BA, FAHRA, Consultant

Description: 

Imaging informatics is a distinct subspecialty of radiology that endeavors to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and reliability of radiologic services within the medical enterprise. Although picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) are a major focus of imaging informatics, there are many other ways in which technology can improve the efficiency of individual radiologists and of the entire department. Understanding informatics principles is important because these principles affect major purchase decisions, not only for PACS but also for other supporting software and for modalities themselves. Virtually every aspect of a radiologist’s workday involves some form of communication: calling a colleague for patient history, calling a technologist to apply a protocol or check an image, reviewing images with a clinician, teaching a trainee, producing a formal report, justifying an examination to a third- party payer. All of these events fall under the purview of imaging informatics, and all of them, along with image interpretation itself, can become more efficient, more effective, and more reliable with the proper tools.

Join us for the Established Leader session, "How to Build and Maintain a Compliant Radiation Protection Program" presented by Ken Repking, BS, CNMT, NMTCB(RS), Practice Associate Radiation Safety Support Services, Landauer. The session will take place live on Thursday, March 13 at 12:15 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Thursday, March 13 - 12:15 PM - 1:15 PM ET

Speaker: 

Ken Repking, BS, CNMT, NMTCB(RS), Practice Associate Radiation Safety Support Services, Landauer

Description: 

This session will review the typical components of a Radiation Protection Program (RPP) to help you understand the function and purpose of the program. Next, we will cover the steps necessary for maintaining a compliant RPP over time. Finally, you will learn about the common pitfalls and mistakes one finds within many RPPs and how to avoid them.

Session Category:

Regulatory

Thank you to our in-kind sponsor, Landauer

Join us for the Aspiring Leader session, "Art of Negotiation" presented by Becky Allen, R.T.(R), MS, CRA; Vice President of Operations, UC Medical Center. The session will take place live on Thursday March 13 at 12:15 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Thursday March 13 - 12:15 PM - 1:15 PM ET

Speaker: 

Becky Allen, R.T.(R), MS, CRA; Vice President of Operations, UC Medical Center

Description: 

This session will define what negotiation is and describe situations where good negotiating skills may come in handy. The session will focus on important negotiations that occur in the imaging work environment and more specifically on negotiating for services, supplies, and capital purchases. Participants will learn the importance of and how to prepare for negotiation. Attendees will understand needs vs. wants vs. desires and what can be negotiated. Some negotiating styles, strategies, and tactics will be explored, and body language also will be discussed. The session will wrap up with a discussion on completing and reviewing your negotiation result.

Join us for the Established Leader session, "How Imaging Impacts Throughput - Are You Using the Right Information?" presented by Amanda Garlock, DHA, CRA, R.T.(R)(MR); Manager, Diagnostic Imaging, Providence Regional Medical Center. The session will take place live on Thursday, March 13 at 2:15 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Thursday, March 13 - 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM ET

Speaker: 

Amanda Garlock, DHA, CRA, R.T.(R)(MR); Manager, Diagnostic Imaging, Providence Regional Medical Center

Description: 

This session will examine the availability of imaging data and to learn the ways to utilize that data to understand the impact it has on the throughput metrics of a facility

Session Category:

Information Management

Leadership

Join us for the Aspiring Leader session, "Introduction to Project Management" presented by Jennifer Kirkman MHA, RT(R)(VI), CRA, FAHRA, Imaging Manager, High Point Medical Center. The session will take place live on Thursday March 13 at 2:15 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Thursday March 13 - 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM ET

Speaker: 

Jennifer Kirkman MHA, RT(R)(VI), CRA, FAHRA, Imaging Manager, High Point Medical Center

Description: 

Rarely a year goes by when a medical imaging administrator does not have a project to manage, whether it be replacing legacy equipment or starting a new service. Regardless of the scope of the project, its successful implementation is dependent on effective project management. Some projects are organization-wide, and the medical imaging administrator will be a member of the team; other projects are “imaging-centric” so the administrator leads the project. This presentation will include basic terminology and tools used to manage any project. A case study will be presented to illustrate all the steps.

Session Categories:

Leadership

Employee Engagement

Make the most out of your virtual conference experience by participating in our Networking Breaks! Join us on Thursday, March 13 from 3:15 - 3:45 pm ET to connect with peers and fellow industry experts to discuss some of the most challenging and pressing issues facing the industry today. Expand your professional network, gain insights and maximize your conference experience by unlocking new opportunities for growth and development. Discussion topics today include "Coding & Compliance - What you Need to Know Today" led by Melody Mulaik, MSHS, CRA, RCC, RCC-IR, FAHRA and "Radiology is Hard!" led by Linda Wilgus, CPA FRBMA.

Date/Time: 

3/13/2025, 3:15 - 3:45 pm ET 
 

You have the option to join the following discussions:

Networking Discussion Option #1: Coding & Compliance - What you Need to Know Today 

Facilitator: 

Melody Mulaik, MSHS, CRA, RCC, RCC-IR, FAHRA; President, Revenue Cycle Coding Strategies LLC

Description:

Staying on top of new codes, regulatory updates and other key issues in the radiology industry is challenging.  Join this Networking Break to speak directly with presenter Melody Mulaik, MSHS, CRA, RCC, RCC-IR, FAHRA; President, Revenue Cycle Coding Strategies LLC about the content of her session, “Coding & Compliance - What you Need to Know Today.” We will discuss  the key updates and potential concerns that you need to focus on as radiology managers in the current regulatory environment.

Networking Discussion Option #2: Radiology is Hard!

Facilitator: 

Linda Wilgus, CPA FRBMA; Co-Executive Director, Radiology Business Management Association (RBMA)

Description:

Radiology is a highly specialized field with unique operational challenges that extend beyond clinical expertise. Join this Networking Break to discuss some of the complexities involved in managing a radiology practice. We will discuss operational hurdles and work to find actionable strategies to navigate the administrative and operational demands of radiology, helping you enhance efficiency and effectiveness in your practice.  

Click here to join today's Networking Discussions:

Day 1 Networking Opportunities

Join us for the Established Leader session, "Task Prioritization and Workflow Efficiency: A Blueprint for Radiology Success" presented by Christopher Salem, Certified Workplace Strategist, Sustainable Success Coaching & Consulting (CRS Group Holdings, LLC). The session will take place live on Thursday, March 13 at 3:45 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Thursday, March 13 - 3:45 PM - 5:15 PM ET

Speaker: 

Christopher Salem, Certified Workplace Strategist, Sustainable Success Coaching & Consulting (CRS Group Holdings, LLC) 

Description: 

As radiology leaders face increasing demands, balancing patient care and team productivity becomes a critical challenge. In this session, we will explore practical frameworks for optimizing task prioritization and enhancing workflow efficiency tailored specifically for radiology departments. Attendees will learn how to lead their teams in overcoming operational bottlenecks, streamline task management, and boost overall departmental efficiency while maintaining high-quality patient outcomes.

Key strategies will include aligning team strengths with daily tasks, adopting time-saving tools, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement to achieve better performance and retention.

This blueprint equips radiology leaders to implement actionable processes that reduce burnout, enhance productivity, and drive long-term success in their teams.

Session Category:

Leadership

Employee Engagement

Join us for the Aspiring Leader session, "Quality Improvement" presented by Mark Lerner, R.T., MPA; Interim Radiology Administrator. The session will take place live on Thursday March 13 at 3:45 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Thursday March 13 - 3:45 PM - 5:15 PM ET

Speaker: 

Mark Lerner, R.T., MPA; Interim Radiology Administrator

Description: 

Attendees will explore how to effectively use data to acquire equipment, improve processes, justify team roles, and collect, organize, analyze, and present information. In today’s healthcare environment, customer service and satisfaction have become critical priorities. Physicians and patients increasingly seek providers who deliver a positive and seamless experience, making customer focus a key component of every patient visit. With competition growing, the challenge lies in continuously improving patient care and satisfaction to ensure your facility stands out.

How can your organization become the provider of choice? The answer lies in taking a comprehensive approach to the customer’s total experience—from start to finish. This involves consistently assessing critical customer satisfiers and implementing changes that address their needs. Recognizing areas for improvement is just the first step; implementation is what truly sets successful organizations apart. By breaking down the process into actionable, tangible steps, you can enhance the patient experience and gain a competitive edge in delivering service excellence. Continuous improvement and innovation are no longer optional—they are essential for success.

Join us for the Aspiring Leader session, "The Employment Continuum - Part 1" presented by Brenda DeBastiani MBA, CRA, FAHRA, RT(R); President, MTMI. The session will take place live on Friday March 14 at 9:00 AM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Friday March 14, 2025 - 9:00 - 10:30 AM ET

Speaker: 

Brenda DeBastiani MBA, CRA, FAHRA, RT(R); President, MTMI

Description: 

Soup to nuts. This session will cover key ways to recruit, interview, hire, coach and retain talent in your imaging departments. Definition of Continuum: a continuous extent, succession, or whole, not part of which can be distinguished from neighboring parts. Does this sound easy to achieve when discussing staff who report to you? This session will offer you strategies to help you approach human resource matters with understanding and patience. Workforce continuums will quickly become models to others by demonstrating how candidates can enter the workforce, develop in their careers, and stay put. Part 1 will emphasize the first step in the seamless succession of career development focusing on interviewing with a mission to hire a person with the right fit, building the workforce through appropriate orientation measures, team building skills, relationship building, competency assessments, and performance evaluations to reward approaches that will help develop a sound team

(Recruit, Interview, Onboarding, Orientation and Training).

Kick off Day 2 of CLIMB Online 2025 by joining us for the Established Leader session, "The Emergence of Virtual-Remote Scanning: Financial, Operational and Quality Considerations" presented by Leslie Jebson, Administrator - Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Network / ASCs / Outpatient Therapies, Prisma Health. The session will take place live on Friday, March 14 at 9:30 AM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Friday, March 14 - 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM ET

Speaker: 

Leslie Jebson, Administrator - Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Network / ASCs / Outpatient Therapies, Prisma Health

Description: 

Imaging technologist workforce shortages are well documented. With growing patient demands for diverse imaging studies continuing, healthcare organizations must innovate and adapt. Remote services by radiologists are standardized industry-wide. However, an emerging area, propelled by technological innovation is enabling virtual access to technologists. Proponents argue that virtual access or virtual co-pilots is the next iteration in attempting to address workforce shortages. Remote scanning support has a slew of implications ranging from financial to quality. This objective and interactive session aims to categorically discuss the top financial, operational, and quality implications behind this growing movement. 

Session Category:

Leadership

Join us for the Established Leader session, "Conscious Management" presented by Mark Lerner R.T., MPA; Interim Radiology Administrator. The session will take place live on Friday, March 14 at 10:45 AM  ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Friday, March 14 - 10:45 AM - 11:45 AM ET

Speaker: 

Mark Lerner R.T., MPA; Interim Radiology Administrator

Description: 

This presentation is based upon Mark Lerner's article entitled "Conscience Management" published anonymously in Radiology Management in the Jan/Feb 2024 issue.  The session will discuss problems with the manner in which management is often practiced in healthcare today.  It will prescribe a different approach to leadership.  This alternative framework is one that results in higher employee retention, satisfaction, and engagement. It will also cover ways to techniques for improving the patient experience and providing care that is patient-centered. This presentation will list ten steps that supervisors can take to create a positive culture in their radiology departments. The talk will also include a description of Studer techniques to improve patient care.

Session Category:

Leadership 

Employee Engagement

Join us for the Aspiring Leader session, "The Employment Continuum - Part 2" presented by Brenda DeBastiani MBA, CRA, FAHRA, RT(R); President, MTMI. The session will take place live on Friday March 14 at 10:45 AM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Friday March 14, 2025 - 10:45 - 11:45 AM ET

Speaker: 

Brenda DeBastiani MBA, CRA, FAHRA, RT(R); President, MTMI

Description: 

Soup to nuts. This session will cover key ways to recruit, interview, hire, coach and retain talent in your imaging departments. Definition of Continuum: a continuous extent, succession, or whole, not part of which can be distinguished from neighboring parts. Does this sound easy to achieve when discussing staff who report to you? This session will offer you strategies to help you approach human resource matters with understanding and patience. Work force continuums will quickly become models to others by demonstrating how candidates can enter a workforce, develop in their careers and stay put.

Part 2 emphasizes the next step to team building through Employee Engagement; Developing Accountable team members through Coaching, Counseling and Accountability.

Make the most out of your virtual conference experience by participating in our Networking Breaks! Join us on Friday, March 14 from 11:45 - 12:15 pm ET to connect with peers and fellow industry experts to discuss some of the most challenging and pressing issues facing the industry today. Expand your professional network, gain insights and maximize your conference experience by unlocking new opportunities for growth and development. Discussion topics today include "Quality and Safety is a Team Effort" led by Nancy Davis, RT(R)(M)(CT); Director of CT Accreditation, Intersocietal Accreditation Commission and "Future-Proofing Radiology Teams: Solutions for a Workforce in Flux" led by Carmen Geerlings, MBA, RT(R), CPCO; Executive Director of Compliance and Regulatory Affairs, Raleigh Radiology & CLIMB Design Team Chair.

Date/Time: 

3/14/2025, 11:45 - 12:15 pm ET 
 

You have the option to join the following discussions:

Networking Discussion Option #1: Quality and Safety is a Team Effort 

Facilitator: 

Nancy Davis, RT(R)(M)(CT); Director of CT Accreditation, Intersocietal Accreditation Commission

Description:

Are you feeling the stress and burnout from taking on the quality and safety duties of your organization?  Join this discussion to explore the root causes of the safety related incidents making recent headlines and discuss what can and should be done to prevent similar incidents at your own facility. This discussion will center around how communication, consistency and coordination are vital to the safety continuum of your patients. This discussion will also touch allow participants to share practical tips for choosing the right individuals for your quality and safety team including physicists, service engineers, and quality and safety accrediting organizations. The goal of this discussion is to leave you feeling optimistic and confident about assuring a culture of excellence within your team!

Networking Discussion Option #2: Future-Proofing Radiology Teams: Solutions for a Workforce in Flux

Facilitator: 

Carmen Geerlings, MBA, RT(R), CPCO; Executive Director of Compliance and Regulatory Affairs, Raleigh Radiology & CLIMB Design Team Chair

 
Description:

As the radiology landscape continues to evolve, leaders face unprecedented challenges in maintaining a stable and motivated workforce. Staffing shortages and widespread burnout are putting pressure on radiology teams, impacting not only day-to-day operations but also the quality of patient care. Join us for a dynamic discussion that will explore practical strategies for future-proofing radiology teams. Engage with peers to exchange ideas on improving staff retention, promoting work-life balance, and developing long-term solutions to address the current staffing crisis. This session provides a collaborative space to share experiences, discuss innovative approaches to managing burnout, and build connections that can lead to actionable change. Whether you're navigating these challenges now or preparing for the future, this discussion will equip you with insights to strengthen your workforce and ensure sustainable success in your department.

Click here to join today's Networking Discussions:

Day 2 Networking Opportunities

Join us for the Established Leader session, "Why Marketing Needs a Seat at Your Leadership Table" presented by Janinne Walker, Senior Vice President Business Development & Sales, Radiology Matters. The session will take place live on Friday March 14 at 12:15 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Friday March 14 - 12:15 PM - 1:15 PM ET

Speaker: 

Janinne Walker, Senior Vice President Business Development & Sales, Radiology Matters 

Description: 

In today’s competitive business landscape, marketing is no longer a function that can sit on the sidelines—it deserves a prominent seat at the leadership table. This presentation delves into the critical role marketing plays in driving strategic decisions at the leadership team level. Attendees will explore the unique insights marketing professionals bring, such as market intelligence, customer feedback, and data analysis, all of which are vital for aligning business strategies with market demands. With the rapid evolution of consumer expectations, healthcare organizations must adapt to deliver not only exceptional services but also seamless customer experiences. We will discuss how integrating marketing into leadership discussions can help organizations stay ahead of competitors, maximize shareholder value, and ensure that marketing efforts are aligned with long-term goals. This presentation emphasizes the importance of leveraging data-driven marketing strategies to enhance decision-making processes, ultimately fostering growth and innovation within the organization.

Session Categories:

Marketing

Leadership

Thank you to our in-kind sponsor, Radiology Matters

Join us for the Aspiring Leader session, "Introduction to Regulatory & Compliance" presented by Cindy Winter, PhD, RDMS, RVT, RT(R), CRA, FAHRA. The session will take place live on Friday March 14 at 12:15 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Friday March 14, 2025 - 12:15 - 1:15 PM ET

Speaker: 

Cindy Winter, PhD, RDMS, RVT, RT(R), CRA, FAHRA

Description: 

From A to Z, the Alphabet Soup of regulatory requirements and compliance is a constant changing recipe for patient-focused quality care, safe environments, educated technologists, and best practices. Participants will be introduced to CMS’s accrediting organization (AO’s) and the current focus of the 2017 Joint Commission surveyors for Imaging Services. An overview of credentialing options for specific modalities will be reviewed along with recently introduced or upcoming regulatory requirements for reimbursement of services

Join us for the Established Leader session, "Improving Staff Performance and the Patient Experience (PX) Through Environmental Design" presented by David Navarrete M.Sc., MBA, EDRA CORE, EDAC; Director, Research Initiatives and Professional Education, Sky Factory, Inc. / The Center for Conscious Design. The session will take place live on Friday March 14 at 2:15 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Friday March 14 - 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM ET

Speaker: 

David Navarrete M.Sc., MBA, EDRA CORE, EDAC; Director, Research Initiatives and Professional Education, Sky Factory, Inc. / The Center for Conscious Design

Description: 

This session will cover how to conduct a PX audit, focusing on human factors that impact staff wellness, performance, and patient experience. Many imaging suites are designed with limited space, leading to patient distress and technologist fatigue. The session will explore how visual connections to open spaces, natural daylight, and biophilic elements—like Prospect & Refuge—enhance well-being and performance.

Research on architectural illusions of nature, such as landscape views and sky imagery, will be discussed for their ability to create perceived openness, reduce claustrophobia, and improve mood. These illusions also benefit imaging staff by mitigating stress from working in confined environments. Evidence links improved workspaces with higher HCAHPS scores, staff satisfaction, and patient outcomes.

The session will also touch on retrofit solutions, such as tunable lighting and nature-inspired illusions, to enhance care environments, even in constrained spaces, improving both staff and patient experiences.

Session Categories:

Patient Experience 

Employee Engagement

Join us for the Aspiring Leader session, "Managerial Communication: Communicating More Effectively in the Workplace" presented by Jennifer Kirkman MHA, RT(R)(VI), CRA, FAHRA, Imaging Manager, High Point Medical Center. The session will take place live on Friday March 14 at 2:15 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Friday March 14 - 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM ET

Speaker: 

Jennifer Kirkman MHA, RT(R)(VI), CRA, FAHRA, Imaging Manager, High Point Medical Center

Description: 

Communication is an essential leadership tool; if you learn to communicate well, you will be more credible and effective. This session will help you to build your communication strengths and identify areas of opportunity and improvement. We will focus on several aspects of business communication including verbal and non-verbal messages. You will assess your current listening skills and learn tips for improving your ability to listen attentively. We will also discuss the art of persuasion and explore the use of hypnotic language and powerful words. The ability to speak confidently in a variety of business settings, both formal and informal is the mark of effective communicators. In this session, you will learn methods to systematically prepare materials for presentations or written proposals. We will also focus on the importance of translating your messages for your target audience.

Session Categories:

Leadership

Employee Engagement

Join us for the Established Leader session, "Federal Health Policy Update" presented by Nathan Baugh, Principal, Capitol Associates Inc. The session will take place live on Friday, March 14 at 3:30 PM  ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Friday, March 14 - 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM ET

Speaker: 

Nathan Baugh, Principal, Capitol Associates Inc.

Description: 

This session will provide a non-partisan overview of the latest healthcare policy news from Washington, D.C., covering both the 119th Congress and the Trump Administration's impact on medical imaging. Nathan Baugh, an expert in AHRA regulatory affairs, will discuss key healthcare topics and regulations affecting radiology administration. Attendees will explore Medicare and Medicaid costs, Capitol Hill proposals, and the perspectives of healthcare stakeholders, with a focus on policy challenges and opportunities. The session will also address ongoing issues with statutes like Appropriate Use Criteria and the No Surprises Act, concluding with a hopeful outlook for healthcare's future in America.

Session Category:

Regulatory 

Finance

Join us for the Aspiring Leader session, "Marketing Matters: Building Basics" presented by Cindy Winter, PhD, RDMS, RVT, RT(R), CRA, FAHRA. The session will take place live on Friday March 14 at 3:30 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Friday March 14, 2025 - 3:30 - 4:30 PM ET

Speaker: 

Cindy Winter, PhD, RDMS, RVT, RT(R), CRA, FAHRA

Description: 

Competitive markets and diminishing resources create high-level attention on how marketing impacts your future. No longer can you and your staff register for a marketing-exempt status. Keeping employees, physicians, patients and the community abreast of the activities in the hospital radiology department and imaging centers requires solid planning and innovative thinking. This interactive session will demonstrate the nuts and bolts of marketing, both internal and external, marketing plans and strategies, and the team commitment needed for growth.

Come together with AHRA one final time for our closing keynote session, "Collaborating to Shape the Future of Medical Imaging." Join us to hear directly from leaders from key medical imaging associations—including the Association for Radiologic & Imaging Nursing (ARIN), the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS), and the Radiology Business Management Association (RBMA). The session will take place live on Friday March 14 at 4:45 PM ET and a recording will be available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Date/Time:

Friday March 14 - 4:45 PM - 6:00 PM ET

Participants: 

• Melissa Pergola, Ed.D,,R.T,(R)(M), FASRT, CAE; The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
• Talisha M. Hunt, BSRT, RDMS, RVT, RDCS, FSDMS; Lead Sonographer and Assistant Professor in Radiology at Mayo Clinic and The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) & SDMS Foundation Director
• Jeremy Montemayor, MSN, ACNPC-AG, RN, CCRN, CEN; Executive Board Member for The Association for Radiologic & Imaging Nursing (ARIN)
• Linda Wilgus, CPA FRBMA; Co-Executive Director, the Radiology Business Management Association

Moderated by:

• Jason Newmark, Executive Director, AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management

Description: 

Join this vital closing keynote panel where representatives from leading medical imaging associations will come together to promote collaboration across the field and address the most pressing issues facing medical imaging leaders today. These panelists from key medical imaging associations—including the Association for Radiologic & Imaging Nursing (ARIN), the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS), and the Radiology Business Management Association (RBMA)—will discuss challenges such as staffing shortages, workforce and employee burnout, retaining talent, finding time for personal development and other trending issues. Panelists will share how they are addressing these issues and the value their associations offer to their members, underscoring the importance of unified efforts to sustain the future of medical imaging.

Session Categories:

Employee Engagement

Leadership

Watch the Established Leader session, "Building Resilient Teams and Effective Leaders in Medical Imaging: Strategies for Enhanced Engagement, Compliance, and Patient Experience" presented by Jordan Johnson, MSHA, CEO / Founder, Bridge Oncology. This session is available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Speaker: 

Jordan Johnson, MSHA, CEO / Founder, Bridge Oncology

Description: 

In today’s dynamic healthcare environment, medical imaging leaders face an evolving set of challenges—ranging from regulatory compliance and patient care to workforce engagement and operational efficiency. This interactive session will provide practical strategies to elevate your leadership approach, build resilient teams, and improve compliance and patient experience. Attendees will explore effective communication techniques, innovative team-building solutions, and proven engagement methods that drive results in imaging centers and hospitals. Whether you're focused on enhancing coding practices, boosting employee morale, or streamlining workflows, this session will equip you with tools and insights to foster a culture of growth and accountability.

This presentation will limit the use of "buzzwords"

Session Category:

Leadership

Finance

Watch the Established Leader session, "Reducing Stress in High-Pressure Radiology Environments: Techniques for Better Team Dynamics" presented by Christopher Salem, Certified Workplace Strategist, Sustainable Success Coaching & Consulting (CRS Group Holdings, LLC). This session is available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Speaker: 

Christopher Salem, Certified Workplace Strategist, Sustainable Success Coaching & Consulting (CRS Group Holdings, LLC) 

Description: 

In radiology, where speed and precision are paramount, high-pressure situations can lead to stress, communication breakdowns, and inefficiencies in team performance. In this session, radiology leaders will be equipped with the tools they require to reduce stress and foster stronger team dynamics in these demanding environments. Attendees will learn techniques to enhance communication, manage stressors effectively, and create a supportive, psychologically safe workplace, resulting in better collaboration, higher productivity, and improved patient care.

By cultivating resilience and using tailored stress management techniques, radiology teams can thrive even under the most intense circumstances, leading to better outcomes and sustained team morale.

Session Category:

Employee Engagement

Leadership

Watch the Established Leader session, "RADIOLOGY IS HARD!" presented by Linda Wilgus, CPA FRBMA; Co-Executive Director, Radiology Business Management Association (RBMA). This session is available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Speaker: 

Linda Wilgus, CPA FRBMA; Co-Executive Director, Radiology Business Management Association (RBMA)

Description: 

Radiology is a highly specialized field with unique operational challenges that extend beyond clinical expertise. This session offers a high-level overview of the complexities involved in managing a radiology practice, including the intricacies of billing, coding, and regulatory compliance. Attendees will gain insights into how to streamline processes to ensure accurate reimbursement and maintain compliance in an evolving healthcare landscape. In addition, we will discuss the operational hurdles, such as resource management and technology integration, that radiology practices face. This session will provide actionable strategies to navigate the administrative and operational demands of radiology, helping you enhance efficiency and effectiveness in your practice.  This session will also update attendees on regulatory and legislative matters impacting radiology and what attendees can do to make a positive difference on our industry.

Session Category:

Leadership

Regulatory

Watch the Established Leader session, "Enhancing Productivity Without Sacrificing Quality: Best Practices in Radiology" presented by Christopher Salem, Certified Workplace Strategist, Sustainable Success Coaching & Consulting (CRS Group Holdings, LLC). This session is available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Speaker: 

Christopher Salem, Certified Workplace Strategist, Sustainable Success Coaching & Consulting (CRS Group Holdings, LLC) 

Description: 

Maintaining high productivity while ensuring top-notch quality in patient care is critical. This talk explores proven best practices for radiology leaders to enhance team efficiency without compromising on the accuracy and care standards expected in their work. Attendees will learn how to balance workflow optimization, technology integration, and task management to increase productivity while upholding the highest level of diagnostic precision.

The session also covers strategies for fostering a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring radiology teams can meet increasing demands while delivering consistent, high-quality results.

Session Category:

Leadership

Physician Engagement

Watch the Established Leader session, "Quality and Safety is a Team Effort" presented by Nancy Davis, RT(R)(M)(CT); Director of CT Accreditation, Intersocietal Accreditation Commission. This session is available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Speaker: 

Nancy Davis, RT(R)(M)(CT); Director of CT Accreditation, Intersocietal Accreditation Commission

Description: 

Are you feeling the stress and burnout from taking on the quality and safety duties of your organization?  Spend some time reconnecting with what drives your passion for helping others. Develop a strategy to build your dream team. Just like any team sport, a successful quality and safety program in medical imaging requires a team of players with specific skill sets.  This session will explore the history of Medical Imaging and the need for safety including fun facts.  Explore the root causes of the safety related incidents making recent headlines. Consider how communication, consistency and coordination are vital to the safety continuum of your patients. Find quality and safety champions in unexpected people amongst your staff. Learn practical tips for choosing the right individuals for your quality and safety team including physicists, service engineers, and quality and safety accrediting organizations. Understand how these external stakeholders should provide tools to assist with continuous quality assurance and improvement. You will leave this session feeling optimistic and confident about assuring a culture of excellence within your team!

Session Category:

Leadership

Regulatory

Watch the Established Leader session, "Implementing the Use of Ultra-Low Field MRI in a Community Hospital Setting" presented by Mitchell McMillen, MHI, RT(R)(CT)(ARRT); Technical Supervisor - MRI, Missouri Baptist Medical Center, BJC Healthcare. This session is available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Speaker: 

Mitchell McMillen, MHI, RT(R)(CT)(ARRT); Technical Supervisor - MRI, Missouri Baptist Medical Center, BJC Healthcare

Description: 

This presentation will cover the implementation of the Hyperfine Swoop portable MRI System at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. Topics covered will include:

• Real patient cases
• Real patient impacts
• Workflow impacts
• Workforce impacts
• Efforts to gain stake holder buy-in
• More to be determined

Implementing the use of swoop has brought forward many opportunities to enhance the impact of MRI at Missouri Baptist and other community hospitals. The use of swoop opens the possibilities for leaders can do for their patients through taking calculated risks.

Session Category:

Patient Experience

Leadership

Watch the Established Leader session, "How to Practically Evaluate and Implement AI in Small and Mid-size Practices, from Use Case Evaluation to Return on Investment" presented by Thomas Bertinotti, CPO & VP Business Operations, Therapixel. This session is available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Speaker: 

Thomas Bertinotti, CPO & VP Business Operations, Therapixel

Description: 

Explore a practical approach to choose and evaluate AI for small and mid-size practices, from identifying use cases to measuring return on investment taking as an example the implementation of Therapixel's mammography AI product, MammoScreen. Learn strategies to identify use cases, navigate the complexities of the AI landscape, conduct clinical validation, user adoption, and evaluate the success of the implementation including return on investment (ROI). This session will provide actionable guidance with real world feedback to successfully select, plan, evaluate, and integrate AI in healthcare settings with efficacy.

Session Category:

Leadership

Join this thought leadership session, "Cracking the Code: How Strategic Partnerships Can Solve the Sonographer Staffing Challenge for Medical Imaging Leaders" sponsored by BB imaging. This session is available as part of the CLIMB 2025 On-Demand Library.

Speaker: Katherine O'Brien RDMS, RDCS; AVP of Clinical Services, BB Imaging

Description: 

Imaging Technologist shortages are impacting medical imaging departments nationwide, leading to increased workloads, longer patient wait times, and staff burnout. This session explores innovative workforce solutions through strategic partnerships, including collaborations with educational institutions, cross-training initiatives, and specialized staffing solutions. Attendees will gain actionable insights and real-world examples to help build sustainable pipelines and improve operational efficiency. Join us to discover how thinking beyond traditional hiring methods can transform your imaging team’s future.

Asset management encompasses many facets. There is replacement and purchase of additional equipment. In conjunction, a medical imaging manager must prepare capital budgets and justifications to replace or add the equipment. A manager must consider construction costs, information services costs, engineering costs and service costs in the proposed purchase. Financial options must be evaluated and a manager must prioritize the capital budget for senior leadership and/or board. Asset management includes analyzing the useful life of the equipment and lifecycle costs such as maintenance, service, supplies and upgrades. Benchmarking data can assist the radiology manager in their justifications. NOTE: You must allow pop-up windows/blockers. (Duration: 90 Minutes)

The highly regulated healthcare industry has always had its share of challenges. Limited resources, budget short-falls, and staffing issues have been the long-experienced narrative for most healthcare administrators. The previous challenges do not seem to compare to what we are facing today in the midst of this pandemic. The American Psychological Association (APA), defines resilience as an opportunity for meaningful personal growth through the process of adapting to difficult circumstances with the knowledge that the circumstances do not govern an individual’s outcome but allow room for improvement. Building resilience provides one with a new skill-set to use on a daily basis. This course will outline the current challenges brought about by the pandemic, both from an individual perspective and that of medical imaging administrators. The course utilizes qualitative data collected via phone interviews with medical imaging administrators around the nation. The course discusses the psychological and physical realties that may create the need for different policies and practices going forward. The course provides a new set of tools to utilize and practice in order to build resilience in this time of crisis. NOTE: You must allow pop-up windows/blockers. (Duration: 90 Minutes)

Speaker: Brenda Rinehart

A medical imaging administrator wears many hats; one of which is the complicated hat of budgeting. In the financial world of imaging there are many different types of budgets. This session will give participants an overview of these different types of budgets and an understanding of how to plan and design them, especially the operating budget. Attendees will also learn about capital planning and how to plan for staffing additions and will see several examples of how to monitor important financial data with respect to your department of responsibility. Other topics to be addressed include staffing analysis, productivity measures, business plans and proformas, and capital planning. NOTE: You must allow pop-up windows/blockers. (Duration: 90 Minutes)

Speaker: Luann Culbreth

A medical imaging administrator wears many hats; one of which is the complicated hat of budgeting. In the financial world of imaging there are many different types of budgets. This session will give participants an overview of these different types of budgets and an understanding of how to plan and design them, especially the operating budget. Attendees will also learn about capital planning and how to plan for staffing additions and will see several examples of how to monitor important financial data with respect to your department of responsibility. Other topics to be addressed include staffing analysis, productivity measures, business plans and proformas, and capital planning. NOTE: You must allow pop-up windows/blockers. (Duration: 60 Minutes)

Speaker: Luann Culbreth

In today’s healthcare environment patient satisfaction has transitioned from a general satisfaction metric into the world of quality/outcomes measurement. Healthcare managers must be poised to manage in an environment where transparency of operations and customer expectations are driving the healthcare market place. NOTE: You must allow pop-up windows/blockers. (Duration: 60 Minutes)

Speaker: Kevin Smith