All in a Day's Work: Lauri Scalf, Radiologic Technologist

Article by: Nancy Crotti , Star Tribune Sales and Marketing
Updated: February 10, 2010 - 4:54 PM

Lauri Scalf, a Radiologic Technologist who specializes in mammography at Consulting Radiologists in Edina, talks about her job.

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Photo: Photo by: Tom Witta,

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Q: What's a typical workday like for you?

I see 15 to 20 patients a day. I talk with each patient about the mammogram, get her medical history and make sure she is positioned properly. I make sure all of the anatomy is present on each image. I spend more time with patients who have already had breast cancer. Their breasts may be more sensitive and they may have more anxiety. I want to make sure they are the most important person in the world having an exam at that time. I show their films to the radiologist to make sure they don't need additional imaging.

Q: How does your role fit into the bigger healthcare picture?

Most patients I see are having screening mammograms, the first step in the fight against breast cancer. I also do diagnostic mammograms. Patients having these are scared because the stakes are much higher. I am honest with them to the best of my ability while staying within my scope of practice.

Q: Who do you interact with during the course of the day?

I work closely with other mammographers and interact with referring physicians, radiologists, breast surgeons, oncologists, ultrasound technologists, scheduling and medical records staff, and of course, the patients.

Q: Why did you become a radiologic technologist specializing in mammography?

There are many different avenues in radiologic technology. Previously, I worked at a children's hospital and as an instructor. The technology is constantly evolving. It's just fascinating to me.

Q: What do you like about your work?

I know that I'm making a difference in my patients' lives. I like the one-on-one contact, reassuring them and knowing that by doing my best, I'm giving them the highest-quality exam I can.

- By Nancy Crotti