Dr. Jim Gray: Diagnostic Radiology Expert

Born in Meridian, Mississippi, Dr. Jim Gray is a Diagnostic Radiology specialist. As a member of the American Board of Radiology, he has continued to build his knowledge and learn skills necessary to stay up to date on the most recent treatments and technology. During his time as a Diagnostic Radiologist, he has become an entrepreneur and opened his own imaging center.

Dr. Gray began his education at Mississippi State University located in the town of Starkville. By 1995 he earned his first degree. In 2000 he earned his second from Southeast Mississippi State University. From there he moved onto Northeastern Ohio University in their College of Medicine. His education continued into his residency at the University of Mississippi. Jim Gray MD Mississippi followed this with a fellowship at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

Recognizing that many radiologists are limited to a single work environment, Jim Gray MD Mississippi sought other options. He wants to help as many people as possible. This led him to join a small practice. In this role, he and his team are able to make a difference in the community around them.

Aware most large academic centers expect a radiologist to specialize in a specific type of radiology, Jim Gray MD Mississippi’s team enables him to reach beyond one specialty. This allows the team to contract with multiple hospitals. Being better equipped to help more people is one reason he continues to work as a radiologist every day. He is well versed in x-Rays, fMRI machines, CT machines, and PET scans. All are used for diagnosing diseases.

Tell us a bit about what you do.

I perform diagnostic testing for doctor’s across various specialties. In doing so, I’m able to help patients learn what is ailing them. This knowledge leads to the creation of treatment methods applicable to that singular case.

After someone has been treated for a given concern, I’m often called upon to help them track the progress of the treatment plan and I am very happy when I am able to watch a person progress toward healing and a healthy lifestyle.

What gave you the idea to become a radiologist? How did it start?

It was easy for me to be drawn to radiology. I appreciated that radiologists are often the first step in a diagnosis. The imaging process is crucial in finding the cause of an ailment. Much of the medical industry relies upon imaging for early detection. I enjoy being able to read the images and provide the needed information so the doctor can help the patient through the healing process.

It is wonderful that I get to do this for every patient that I meet.

When you combine that rewarding experience with all of the advancements that have been made in the field technologically speaking it is exhilarating. There is a significant difference in what we can image over the last number of years. It has become more like playing a video game all day than it once was. The best part is when you spot the problem a physician is seeking to be able to treat the patient. There is no other field like this in the medical industry or anywhere else.

What’s your favorite thing about your chosen profession?

My favorite thing is knowing that I’m helping people. Every day that I go into work I am a part of a support team that helps people heal and start on a healthier lifestyle. There is nothing like knowing you can help a person recover from something that has been distressing them.

What keys to being productive can you share with us?

Where possible, I take a few minutes to review the incoming patient’s files. This gives me the opportunity to become familiar with the individual prior to their testing process. This can give me some leverage for helping a patient feel more comfortable in an uncomfortable setting. This isn’t always available though.

Typically, we walk into all the files from overnight. We need to review what is left for us and use the voice recorder to catch up with everything that is waiting. The doctors need reports back as soon as we can get them.

Besides that, I have to complete studies that are scheduled or go out for a procedure. If I’m not reading images, following up with a doctor, or creating the images, I’m likely not at work.

Tell us one long-term goal in your career.

Facilitating the best possible knowledge for a given health situation is my primary goal for everything I do. Knowing I am helping others keeps me going into work every single day. This being the case, I’d like to be doing what I am doing today for as long as I possibly can.

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned through the course of your career?

Putting your patients first is always the best thing you could possibly do. You’ll find that when you put your patients first everything falls into place. You’ll get the reports done. You’ll find the answers your patients need, and you’ll make sure to keep in contact with the doctors along the way.

What advice would you give to others aspiring to succeed in your field?

Make time for everyone who makes time to speak with you. It is important they know they are important. So often people get irritated when they are interrupted or are treated as though their time is worth less than yours. Every time you make time for them, you’ll learn something valuable.

If you can learn multiple types of testing equipment, do it. You’ll be better equipped to help your patients and enable the doctors you partner with to find good solutions.

What are your favorite things to do outside of work?

My favorite thing is to spend time with my children. They are my greatest joy. We do a lot of outside activities when we are able. I’m not a fan of the reliance on technology that many children have today so we go out to the lake to go boating or other activities. My children are also very active, so we’re often traveling to competitive events.

Name a few influential books you’ve read and/or websites you keep up with that you’d recommend to readers.

My favorite book is “Oh, The Places You’ll Go!” by Doctor Seuss. It’s a fantastic book that really sums up everything you need in life.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would have encouraged myself to enter the healthcare industry at a much earlier age. The rewards are immeasurable. It is one of the most joyful and humbling experiences to be able to work in such a rewarding position. There is nothing I could have ever done that would have provided the happiness I get in this position.

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