Paige Burkhardt, RRA, RPA, MSRS

Why I chose to pursue a career in healthcare:

As a high school student, I obtained a job as a secretary at a local outpatient radiology office. While working there in the evenings, I would wander back to the technologist area where patients were having their exams to see if I could help the techs. I was completely enamored by how anatomically detailed the MRI images were and decided, as a 16-year-old, that I was going to go to x-ray school and then pursue further education to become a MRI technologist. I went on to do so and was an MRI technologist for 17 years before deciding to go to graduate school to further my education and become an RRA/RPA. My continued desire and passion to help patients through the art of imaging is why I chose my career, and it is one for which I am incredibly grateful.

What I want my patients to know about me:

I find a deep sense of fulfillment and pride in being able to help others through my work. I always have the patient's best interest at heart and will advocate for them at whatever level is necessary. I take my time in explaining procedures and exams to patients and their family members or loved ones, and I make sure they know I am going to take good care of them. My goal is always to leave a positive and warm impression, no matter the circumstances. I understand many patients and their loved ones may be anxious about their exams/procedures and I do my very best to provide whatever calm and comfort I can.

What I do when I'm not seeing patients:

When I am not at work, you can find me spending time with my daughters (ages 6 and 16). We live in Maryland just south of the MD/PA line. My oldest plays high school and AAU basketball and my youngest plays soccer. When we aren't busy with sports and school activities, you can find us spending time with family and friends. When my girls are with their dad I enjoy reading, spending time with friends and am always looking for reasons to go somewhere warm with a beach and palm trees! In addition to how I spend my leisure time, I also commit time to several committees to advocate for recognition of the RRA/RPA (midlevel radiology practitioner) role. We are currently working on a Federal Bill that will allow for easier and more equal access to radiology care for Medicare/Medicaid patients. I have spent time on Capitol Hill advocating and will continue to do so until we have reached our goal!