Biz Q&A: Technology helps draw radiologist to field
This week's Monday Q&A features Dr. Melinda Talley of the Edith Sanford Breast Center.
A native of Canova, she completed her undergraduate degree at South Dakota State University and medical school at the University of South Dakota. Her radiology residency was at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Wash., and she did a breast imaging fellowship at University of Wisconsin in Madison.
After training, she moved to Sioux Falls and began practicing medicine. She joined Sanford Health in 2011.
Question: What's the best part about your job?
Answer: I am a radiologist with a subspecialty in breast imaging. The best part of my job is a combination of things. I love being able to use the latest technology to help detect and diagnose the tiniest of cancers and to try to make each patient's experience as easy as possible. I also enjoy working with the wonderful team of dedicated people at the Edith Sanford Breast Center.
Q: What made you decide to enter your field?
A: Through my medical training, I found I enjoy being able to look into the body and actually see what is wrong with a patient using different imaging modalities. With breast imaging, I am able to detect not only cancers at an early stage before the patient is even symptomatic, but also meet my patients and help them through the diagnostic process. Much of radiology involves looking at complex imaging exams on a computer. However, as a breast radiologist, I am able to interact with patients on a daily basis and know I'm making a difference in their lives.
Q: What advice would you give to a young person considering a career in health care?
A: The health care field has a vast array of opportunities that many people are not aware of — from technology to research to support staff to direct patient care.
Before entering medicine, it is helpful to investigate all of the different options and find out what is the best fit for you. It is a challenging, secure and satisfying career that requires considerable hard work and dedication.
Q: What motivates you to be active in your community or profession?
A: I like to teach and have had the opportunity to give lectures at many different venues. Medicine is vast, and it is difficult keep up to date with how fast it changes. That gives me the opportunity to share my knowledge of breast imaging with others.
Q: Do you have a certain service organization or charity you like to support?
A: I enjoy listening to the news and programs on South Dakota Public Broadcasting. I also support the Children's Home Society.
Q: What do you do for fun?
A: I enjoy spending time with my family, gardening and skiing.
Q: What do you like about living in Sioux Falls?
A: Sioux Falls is a nice-sized town for my family. It offers us a great variety of activities and events without the crowds and traffic of a big city. The public schools are wonderful, and the low crime rate of the area allows for a secure environment to raise a young family.