National University’s diagnostic imaging (DI) students now have the opportunity to study a larger variety of cases at a full-service imaging center off-campus.

William Bogar, DC, DACBR, chair of the Diagnostic Imaging and Residency program at NUHS, has formed a partnership with Bright Light Radiology, an imaging center in Elk Grove Village, Ill., that offers MRI, CT, mammography, diagnostic ultrasound, digital X-ray, DEXA and EKGs. Diagnostic Imaging residents work one-on-one with Medical Director Resham Mendi, MD, and review hundreds of real-life patient cases and images, determining how to diagnose patients.

When confronted with a patient case, residents must learn the proper pathology and identify the next course of action. In one case involving a tumor infiltrating the spine, Dr. Mendi worked with the resident to demonstrate with certainty if a tumor is benign or malignant and requires a biopsy.

Residents also receive the benefit of working alongside a renowned expert in the field of medical imaging. “It’s much different than what you might find in a textbook,” Dr. Mendi said. “Residents have the chance to ask questions and learn why a certain medical decision is made.”

In addition to earning her medical degree from Northwestern University and completing her residency training at the University of Illinois, Dr. Mendi has published several articles in radiology journals. Dr. Mendi also completed a fellowship under the guidance of Stephen Pomeranz, MD, a world-renowned medical radiologist in Cincinnatti, Ohio, where she interpreted in excess of 10,000 MR studies per year.

Along with training diagnostic imaging residents, Dr. Mendi finds the experience to be beneficial for herself as well. “I love teaching,” she said. “It’s a really great way to refresh your skillset while in practice.”

Residents visit the center once a month. After having worked with three different NUHS students over the past year, Dr. Mendi said she hopes to continue the residency program well into the future.

“I would love for teaching to be a regular part of practice,” she said.

The program is significant for chiropractic students specializing in diagnostic imaging. “The center is state-of-the-art and has a high MRI volume, allowing students to study a wide variety of cases they might not otherwise get to see,” Dr. Bogar said.