Amy Kuhns, Radiologic Technologist at Midwest Orthopaedic Institute, has recently been certified in Magnetic Resonance Imaging by The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). In earning this credential, she adds the initials “(MR)(ARRT)” after her name.

Amy graduated from Kishwaukee College in 2001, with an Associates Degree in Radiological Science. She has worked at Sherman Hospital in Elgin, IL and is currently working at Midwest Orthopaedic Institute in Sycamore, IL.

ARRT’s credential assures patients that Registered Technologists who conduct medical imaging, interventional procedures, and radiation therapy have completed the prescribed educational preparation, passed the appropriate exam, and pledged to abide by stringent ethics requirements — all of which assist them in delivering safe and effective patient care. ARRT ensures their continuing education and ongoing ethics compliance by requiring annual registration of certificates.

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) promotes high standards of patient care by recognizing qualified individuals in medical imaging, interventional procedures, and radiation therapy. Headquartered in St. Paul, Minn., it tests, certifies, and annually registers more than 300,000 radiologic technologists across the U.S.

TIMES/RESULTS SUMMARY:

SWIM – 1:02:27

BIKE – 5:28:38

RUN – 3:57:54

OVERALL – 10:37:37

RANK – 90

DIV.POS. – 8

“We searched elite training programs across America for a spine specialist for our community and are now pleased to introduce Dr. Raymond Hwang to DeKalb County” – Steven Glasgow, M.D.

Dr. Hwang is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and a member of the North American Spine Society. He is Board Eligible for the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.

On choosing to specialize in the spine . . .

The anatomy of the spine is remarkable in both structure and function. Its complexity makes many back and neck issues challenging to both diagnose and treat. Yet spine-related health issues are very common. Knowing that I can provide a service to patients that can improve their quality of life is important to me. Furthermore, spine surgery is a field that is still growing and evolving. Our understanding of the spine is constantly improving. Being a part of this dynamic specialty makes spine surgery especially engaging and enjoyable to practice.

On being a part of team MOI . . .

Working in a multidisciplinary group of physicians with outstanding credentials and training is important to me. I believe teamwork is fostered in such an environment, leading to better patient care. MOI physicians are passionate about their work and very involved with the community. I think this is reflected in the patient experience. It is an honor to practice alongside these dedicated and talented individuals.

Why the Midwest . . .

I was born and raised in the Midwest. While I left to go to college in Boston, I never lost that Midwestern sensibility. It was only natural for me to return after I had completed all my training. It is great to be back and I am looking forward to getting to know the community!

Why I chose to specialize in Rheumatology . . .

The field is extremely complex, and I find it both intellectually challenging and personally rewarding. Rheumatological diseases tend to be multi-systemic diseases, often involving multiple organs. The various conditions can be debilitating and accompanied by a lot of pain. Providing the correct diagnosis and appropriate care can make a huge difference in the patient’s quality of life.

On working with Team MOI . . .

The rheumatologists at MOI work side by side with the orthopaedists to provide the best possible care for patients with severe arthritic problems. Sometimes joint replacement is the best solution for patients who have exhausted non-surgical options. On the other hand, an orthopaedist may send a patient with severe joint inflammation to a rheumatologist. Together, we provide complete care.

On patient care . . .

Patient care is always my first concern. I treat my patients as I would a family member, and I do everything I can to provide them with information about their disease and the management of their long-term care. The better the patient understands their condition, the better they are able to comply with my recommendations and instructions.

Sometimes the medications we use have significant side effects that the patients have to be aware of. Lab monitoring is essential, and patients have to follow precautions and instructions to avoid complications. That’s why I make sure patients get all the time they need to ask questions.

When I’m not practicing medicine . . .

My wife and I spend as much time as we can with our children. We particularly enjoy swimming and watching movies together. And I like to get out for a jog whenever I can.