Medical Imaging Matters
Medical Imaging Matters
Why Are We Doing It This Way? A Closer Look at Contrast Delivery
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How do imaging leaders determine the right contrast delivery workflow for their department?
Imaging leaders are constantly looking for ways to improve efficiency, support staff, and deliver a better patient experience. But when it comes to contrast delivery, there is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution.
In this episode of Medical Imaging Matters, AHRA Executive Director Jason Newmark continues the conversation on contrast delivery with Michael Schlenk, MRI manager at Naples Comprehensive Health, and David Kos, medical imaging manager at Hoag Memorial Hospital.
Drawing from their own experiences across MRI, CT, emergency, inpatient, and outpatient environments, Michael and David explain why successful workflows depend on much more than technology alone. Staffing models, patient populations, clinical priorities, available resources, and even regional differences can all influence what works best for a department.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway is that workflow improvement doesn't always require a major investment or a complete overhaul. Sometimes it starts with asking a simple question: Why are we doing it this way?
Michael and David share how regularly revisiting long-standing processes, listening to frontline staff, and staying open to new approaches can create a better experience for both patients and teams.
Mentioned in This Episode
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Special Thanks to AHRA Corporate Partner, Guerbet
For 100 years, Guerbet has supported healthcare professionals dedicated to medical imaging. We believe some of the best ideas come from sharing real-world experiences, which is why we're proud to bring together imaging leaders, administrators, technologists, and clinicians for conversations about the challenges, opportunities, and innovations shaping the future of imaging. Whether you're focused on patient care, operational excellence, or the future of your department, we hope these discussions provide practical insights you can take back to your organization.
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Michael J. Schlenk, M.S., R.T.(R)(MR), MRSO, MRSE has spent nearly 40 years in diagnostic imaging, with a focus on maintaining safe MRI environments for patients and staff. He has led the MRI department at NCH Healthcare System since 2015. In 2025, he founded Force Product Consulting, which provides MRI safety consulting, staff training, and applications support to imaging organizations.
Prior to joining NCH, Michael spent nearly ten years as MRI Supervisor at Lexington Medical Center, overseeing protocols across the main hospital and three outpatient sites. He also served as the organization's MRI Safety Officer, developing safety policies and training clinical staff, public safety officers, and local first responders. Additionally, he spent eight years as adjunct faculty in the MRI program at Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College.
Michael holds a B.S. in Diagnostic Imaging from Jefferson and an M.S. from the University of Phoenix. He is registered by the ARRT in both radiography and MRI.
Dave Kos is the Medical Imaging Manager and Technical Supervisor at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Newport Beach, California. With an extensive background in clinical radiology operations, Dave oversees technical workflows, safety protocols, and departmental efficiency across Hoag's imaging services network. He is also an active and dedicated member of AHRA.
AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management provides medical imaging professionals with education, training, insights, and community expertise to grow as healthcare leaders.
Founded in 1973, our professional organization is a catalyst for healthcare improvement by setting the standard on quality care, innovative use of technologies, and best practices in medical imaging management.
Learn more and connect with us at ahra.org.