Meet the Doctors: Allen Swanson, MD

How, when and why did you decide to pursue a career in medicine?

During college, I took courses in genetics and psychology that fascinated me about the body and mind. I knew I wanted to use that knowledge to help others lead healthier lives, so I completed premed courses and a degree in psychology at Northwestern University. I attended medical school at the University of Minnesota and found radiology to be the perfect fit, as it allowed me to diagnose and treat illnesses affecting all areas of the body. Following a diagnostic radiology residency at Mayo Clinic, I completed a fellowship in interventional radiology at Johns Hopkins in order to use my background in imaging to perform minimally invasive procedures.

What do you like most about your job?

I love having the opportunity to care for patients with procedures that avoid many risks of surgery or allow for treating patients where surgery isn’t a safe option. We can get almost anywhere in the body with a small incision and take care of a wide range of problems, including cancer, vascular disease and pain. I also get to be part of a team working in close collaboration with other physicians, nurses and techs with the shared goal of putting the needs of the patient first.

What is your favorite way to spend free time?

Outside of work, I try to spend as much time as I can with my wife and daughter. We love to go to parks, bike, ski and travel. Additionally, I have spent considerable time in international medical volunteering and am working on ways to continue this as an interventional radiologist.

What do you like most about working at RIA?

I love the emphasis on quality of patient care at RIA. We strive to take the best care of patients through a team approach and staying up to date on the most recent medical breakthroughs and procedures. I’m continually impressed by the innovative treatments my interventional colleagues at RIA find to improve patients’ lives.