Third-year diagnostic radiology resident Patrick Couture, M.D., was recently selected to participate in the American College of Radiology’s (ACR) Rutherford-Lavanty Fellowship in Government Relations in Washington, D.C.
The weeklong program, established in 1993, provides an opportunity for radiology residents to participate in ACR government relations activities, and to develop a deeper understanding of state and federal legislative and regulatory processes as it relates to the practice of radiology.
“Pat was invited based on his impressive credentials, including his leadership role in the Tennessee Radiological Society (TRS) Resident and Fellow Section,” said Lori Deitte, M.D., Vice Chair of Education and Professor of Radiology and Radiological Sciences. “This type of experience at the national level can be career defining and we are very excited for him.”
In addition, the TRS, which is a local chapter of the ACR, awarded Dr. Couture the Dan Starnes Scholarship to fund his participation in the Rutherford-Lavanty Fellowship program.
The TRS brings together physicians from across the state to advocate, educate and preserve the safety and quality of radiology practice in Tennessee. Dr. Couture has participated extensively in the TRS Day on the Hill and ACR Hill Day events, and was elected president of the TRS Resident and Fellow Section at the TRS Annual Scientific Meeting earlier this year.
“At previous ACR and Tennessee Radiological Society events, I’ve had the opportunity to meet some really interesting and influential people, including past Rutherford fellows, who inspired me to participate in the program,” said Dr. Couture. “I think it’s going to be a great experience, and I’m really looking forward to it.”
