UPHS – Marquette Heroes | Allison Wallace RT(R)CT 

What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?

I am a computed tomography (CT) Radiographer at UP Health System – Marquette.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

I have always wanted to help people and be a contributing person to the community. I enjoy meeting all kinds of different individuals. As a high school student, I was in health occupations and toured imaging and I always found the modality to be intriguing.  

What's a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?

We are busy all the time. We are the popular kids of the hospital!! I am part of the Difficult Intravenous Access (DIVA) IV team, so we go help the floors with difficult IVs. We meet all kinds of people every day. This field is unpredictable and rewarding every day.  

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

I started with UPHS-Marquette right out of high school in 2003, and I have been involved with imaging ever since then. I have been employed directly in the CT department since January 2006.  

What are some of the big changes you've experienced in this position?

The biggest change was moving from the old facility to the current facility. Being a part of that move was very interesting. Also, learning to use a whole new imaging system was tricky to learn. We had used Siemens forever, and now we have GE scanners. Another big change was learning how to use CERNER after using the older system for almost 20 years.  

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite gem?

Interests outside of work would be my family. I have two boys, a husband, and a dog who all keep me busy, and are the best. We try to stay active with hiking around Marquette, camping, going to the beach, and just being outside as much as possible. I also enjoy trail running whenever I can, weightlifting, and working out. A local gem to me would be the beaches of Marquette and all of the wooded trails we have in Marquette County.  

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?

The people and the patients. It is an honor to help out in any way that I can every day. I try to bring an upbeat attitude to the situation and I enjoy making patients feel comfortable whenever they need a CT scan done.