February 2007 | Vol. 25, No. 2

SVU Member Profile

Ann M. Needham, RN RVT

Education Coordinator
University Surgical Associates
Chattanooga, Tennessee

What is your current title and employer?

My title has changed from Technical Director to my current title of Education Coordinator at University Surgical Associates in Chattanooga, TN. I began this aspect of my job because we have grown to a total of 9 vascular technologists and have students, as well. We are working on new protocols, systems and techniques that keep me busy and challenged!

When did you start this position?

I began working in this University-based private practice in 1999, and began by new responsibilities in April, 2006.

What degrees and credentials do you have?

I am a Registered Nurse (since 1963) and a Registered Vascular Technologist (since 1983).

Where and when did you get your vascular training?

Well, as one might guess, my training was on the job and this began at Memorial Medical Center and SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, IL, in 1975.

What made you decide to enter vascular technology as a career?

The decision was technically made for me. I had moved to Springfield and was job hunting. However, I had been in nursing in MICU/CCU for the previous 12 years and needed a break. The only position at the hospital I preferred was “some job for a surgeon, and we are not really sure what it is about. Do you want to interview?”  I was smart (read ‘lucky’) enough to answer “yes!” This was my introduction to David S. Sumner, MD., a pioneer in our specialty. Had he known my mathematical deficiencies, he may not have hired me. Thus, my training and my career began. It continues to this day, in each different position I have taken.

When did you join SVU?

I joined SVU, then SNIVT, in 1978 as a Charter Member.

What do you like best about your current position?

Well, there is a lot, but if I had to pick just one thing, it would have to be passing on the wealth of knowledge and challenges of this career first instilled in me by Dave and then by subsequent mentors over the years.

Have you served on an SVU Committee, if so, which one(s) and when?

I have served on the following SVU Committees: Abstracts Committee (1990–1993), Awards Committee (1992), Professional Performance Guidelines (2000–current). I also served on the Board of Trustees from 1989–1991 and was Secretary in 1991.

What do you feel are the biggest issues facing vascular technologists today?

In the current climate, one of our biggest challenges is to continue being productive and provide quality care to our patients despite ongoing decrease in reimbursements. This is putting the squeeze on all of us, forcing many to do more with less (time, staff, and high end equipment), but ways must be found to avoid compromising quality. 

Another issue, and also one affecting quality, is in providing formal education for all sonographers in the field. Many more schools are now available, making this easier, but I believe introducing our profession to the public and especially to children in middle schools will increased awareness and encourage more talented persons to enter into our field. 

What tips would you give to today’s ultrasound students about their career in the vascular ultrasound profession?

Learn the basics thoroughly and join your professional organization – it provides the support and networks you will need to advance in your career as you settle into our field.  Don’t hesitate to try something new or difficult, as each will be an opportunity to learn something along the way.

Any other comments you would like to add about your membership in SVU since 1978?

Just that being a member of SVU is the finest and most fun organization I have ever been associated with. It has given me education, travel, and the best friends from all over the world. Through SVU, I have had many opportunities to work with both technologist and physician mentors (special thanks to Dave Sumner, Bob Barnes and my husband, Terry Needham for believing in me) and I have continued to learn and be challenged (by my current mentor, Dr. Joel Clements) throughout my career.

Any children (if so what are their names and ages)?

Terry and I have a terrific blended family consisting (in age order) of:  Deb, Helen, David, and Paul. In addition to our daughter/sons in law (Mark, Rob, Jen and Cindy) we have five brilliant grandchildren -- Aidan, Savannah, Sophia, Simon and Jack (from ages 14 years to 6 years of age)

Any pets?

Jackson is our 11 year old live at home miniature Schnauzer (ssh, don’t tell him he is a dog).

What do you do for fun and relaxation when not working?

Travel, travel, travel, reading and photography. We have a great Church family that we worship and have fun with (we love each other and good food!).We also enjoy hiking and walking Jackson. And by the way, did I mention travel