Diagnostic Radiologist
Jamestown Radiologists PC
Industry: Health Care
Field: Diagnostic Radiology

A respected specialist in mammography and general radiology, Dr. Brian D. Meagher has made it his life’s work to detect problems that lie just underneath the surface. As a diagnostic radiologist for Jamestown Radiologists PC, he conducts diagnostic readings of mammographies, X-rays, CAT scans, ultrasounds, MRIs, positron emission tomography, and other nuclear medicine techniques. Dr. Meagher thrives at the challenge of thwarting illness in the early stages by diagnosing symptoms that may elude others. “The most rewarding aspect of my career,” he says, “[is when I] interpret a study and see something that’s relatively subtle, but turns out to make a big difference in patient management.”

Dr. Meagher complements his precise, meticulous work as a radiologist with the easy affability of a general practitioner. Though he has focused his talents on radiology these last 20 years, he considers his first seven years in family medicine to have been invaluable. After all, his exposure to a diversity of patients has enabled him to hone the people skills that distinguish his practice today. He adds, “A sense of humor goes a long way in dealing with sick people. This also applies to interacting with staff, not just patients.”

Esteemed by his peers, Dr. Meagher has earned affiliation with the Medical Society of the State of New York, the American College of Radiology, the American Medical Association, the American Roentgen Ray Society, and the Radiological Society of North America. He previously served as president of the Chautauqua Medical Society and considers this appointment to be among the highlights of his career. He obtained an MD in 1982 from Georgetown University and a Bachelor of Arts in Neurobiology and Behavior in 1978 from Cornell University. His residency in radiology was completed at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center.

Always on the lookout for the next challenge, Dr. Meagher plans to continue his education and expand his understanding of health care reforms.

Conversation with Brian D. Meagher, MD

WORLDWIDE PUBLISHING: On what topic(s) do you consider yourself to be an expert?

Brian D. Meagher: Mammography and general radiology.

What characteristics help to separate you from others?

I gained a strong background in family practice prior to going into radiology. I believe it has given me more people skills. I have spent 20 years in radiology and seven in family practice. I made the change because I thought I needed a bigger challenge in terms of what I’d be doing on a daily basis. There was sort of a sameness to what I was seeing that didn’t seem like I was being challenged intellectually. However, that’s not to say that there weren’t challenges from time to time.

What motivates you?

The challenge of providing patient care through radiology services.

What short-term and long-term career goals are you currently pursuing?

I want to continue my education to facilitate ACR accreditation in multiple fields of radiology.

What is the most difficult obstacle or challenge you have faced in pursuit of your goals?

It would probably have to do with the lack of funding for improved radiology services in a small community hospital.

What is the most significant issue facing your profession today?

The most significant issue is the attempt to close out private practice radiology and just make everybody an employee of a hospital. There’s a move to do that type of thing in the general area I am in.

Did you ever consider pursuing a different career path or another profession?

I would say no. I knew I wanted to be a doctor since high school.

What is your favorite or least favorite work-related task to do and why?

I do like MRI imaging of the brain — obviously, it’s a ways away from mammography, which is my expertise, but I do enjoy that.

Who have been your mentors or people who have greatly influenced you?

One doctor, Carl D’Orsi; he was a mammography instructor during my radiology residency at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. There was also Dr. Cynthia Umali-Torres, who was the director of my residency program, also in radiology.