The SNMMI Annual Meeting is recognized as the premier educational, scientific, research, and networking event in nuclear medicine and molecular imaging. The four-day event, which will take place June 24–27, 2023 at McCormick Place in Chicago, provides physicians, technologists, pharmacists, laboratory professionals, and scientists with an in-depth view of the latest research and development in the field and the clinic.

In order to get a better idea of what to expect at this year’s meeting, and to get to know the initiatives that SNMMI is focusing on, HCB News sat down with Helen Nadel, SNMMI president-elect. Here is our conversation.

HCB News: Who or what inspired you to follow a career in healthcare?

Helen Nadel: For me, it has always been about people and children. I’m inspired by the opportunity to improve lives. When I was in high school, I had a very memorable biology teacher, Mr. Joyce, who sparked my interest in human biology and began my journey in medicine.

HCB News: What drew you to nuclear medicine?
HN: I came to radiology when I was doing a general internship, planning on a career as a general practitioner. A close friend encouraged me to do an early elective in nuclear medicine and radiology. The instructors were welcoming, the technology was fascinating, and I saw amazing opportunities to influence both the healthcare of children and the practice of nuclear medicine as a pediatric radiologist and pediatric nuclear medicine physician.

I was lucky enough to study with Dr. David Stringer, a world-renowned pediatric radiologist, and he encouraged me to take my first job in nuclear medicine. I was mentored by many other nuclear medicine physicians who encouraged me to subspecialize in this area. My most memorable mentor was Dr. Ignac Fogelman, who at the time was professor and chair of Nuclear Medicine at Guy’s Hospital in London. He became my teacher, mentor and guide for all of the advanced nuclear medicine I now do.

HCB News: Are there any key initiatives you will be spearheading as president?
HN: Increasing access to nuclear medicine is one of my primary goals. I would love for more families to have access to advanced cancer care for their children, no matter their socio-economic circumstances. We are seeing so many cutting-edge nuclear medicine treatments and techniques that are creating life-changing experiences for the children and their parents, and this opportunity should be more available in our country and the world.

In addition, I plan to focus on creating new ways to support members. We are standing on the shoulders of giants, and we need to continue to reach high in our pursuit of improving the lives of patients.

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