The UW Departments of Radiology and Medical Physics have established the new Section of Clinical Imaging Physics to provide technical expertise and coordination of physics resources in support of our clinical mission. Alisa Walz-Flannigan, PhD joined the university in October 2024 to serve as section chief.
“This new section demonstrates the continued legacy and commitment of UW–Madison to the high standards in medical imaging required to provide optimal patient care,” Chair Scott Reeder, MD, PhD noted. “We are fortunate to have Alisa Walz-Flannigan serve as section chief as she brings a wealth of leadership, technical and educational experience.”
Section members optimize imaging protocols, troubleshoot image degradation problems, conduct acceptance testing of equipment, and perform routine quality assurance testing. They also help drive innovation and support clinical translation.
“Our imaging physicists partner closely with modality chiefs as well as other radiologists and technologists,” explained Dr. Walz-Flannigan. “Through these relationships, we better understand the workflow and needs in the evolving enterprise of modern medicine and help advance patient care.”
A key element of effective teamwork is knowledge sharing, an area Dr. Walz-Flannigan is well-versed in. “I’m passionate about education and workforce development. I’ve previously worked with the Mayo Clinic’s residency programs and Marshfield Clinic’s School of Radiography.” In addition, she currently serves as the Imaging Physics Residency program director within the UW Department of Medical Physics.
Dr. Walz-Flannigan and her section members are developing a resource website to share information about equipment, testing, accreditation, and quality control. In addition, they will develop training for radiology staff and residents.
Many of the new section members are also members of the Section of Imaging Sciences and conducted similar work prior to the new section’s foundation. The Imaging Sciences section differs in its primary focus, which is research. However, the two sections will work closely together.