Renowned Emergency Radiologist Dr. Tarek Hanna Appointed Chair of Diagnostic Radiology & Nuclear Medicine at University of Maryland School of Medicine

In a strategic move to elevate its radiology program, the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) has announced the appointment of Dr. Tarek N. Hanna, MD, FASER, as the new Chair of the Department of Diagnostic Radiology & Nuclear Medicine. This appointment, effective September 2025, also encompasses his roles as President of University of Maryland Diagnostic Imaging Specialists and Chief of Diagnostic Radiology & Nuclear Medicine Clinical Service at the University of Maryland Medical Center. Dr. Hanna’s arrival marks a pivotal advancement in one of the fastest-growing and technologically dynamic fields in medicine today.

Dr. Hanna assumes this prestigious role following a rigorous national search, stepping into the Dean John M. Dennis Chair of Radiology, a position symbolizing the legacy of Dr. Dennis, an eminent radiologist and former UMSOM Dean. Dr. Hanna’s distinguished career, particularly his expertise in emergency and trauma radiology, positions him uniquely to lead the department’s expansion in clinical excellence, research innovation, and academic leadership. The university anticipates his leadership will invigorate the department’s mission amid rapid technological progress.

Previously serving at Emory University School of Medicine since 2013, Dr. Hanna held prominent positions including Professor, Vice Chair of Diagnostic Imaging, and Division Director of Emergency and Trauma Imaging within the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences. His tenure at Emory was marked by a transformative approach to emergency radiology operations, optimizing clinical workflows and minimizing diagnostic errors—an achievement critical in high-stakes trauma care where speed and precision directly influence patient outcomes.

Radiology continues to be revolutionized by cutting-edge advancements, notably in imaging technology and artificial intelligence (AI). Dr. Hanna’s appointment comes at a crucial time when AI integration into radiologic diagnostics is reshaping the landscape, enhancing image interpretation, and streamlining clinical workflows. He brings a forward-looking perspective on incorporating machine learning algorithms to augment radiologist performance, improve diagnostic accuracy, and reduce variability, particularly in emergency settings where rapid decision-making is essential.

Under Dr. Hanna’s leadership at Emory, the Division of Emergency and Trauma Imaging evolved into a nationally recognized academic practice, demonstrating unparalleled growth and operational excellence across multiple hospitals, including a level one trauma center. His expertise in radiology scheduling and staffing enabled 24/7/365 coverage with sustainable after-hours protocols, a logistical feat balancing radiologist well-being and patient care quality—a model that he aims to implement and enhance at Maryland.

Quality improvement initiatives spearheaded by Dr. Hanna have focused on reducing turnaround times for diagnostic imaging amidst increasing clinical volumes. By employing data-driven strategies and leveraging technology, his teams significantly improved workflow efficiencies without compromising accuracy, a balance that exemplifies the future of emergency radiology. Emphasizing precision medicine, he envisions harnessing advanced diagnostic tools and interventional radiology techniques to better tailor patient care.

Beyond clinical operations, Dr. Hanna is an esteemed scholar with a prolific publication record—over 200 peer-reviewed papers and abstracts in leading journals such as Radiology, the Journal of the American College of Radiology, and Radiographics. His research covers critical topics including imaging resource utilization, diagnostic error reduction, health equity in radiology, and the educational integration of artificial intelligence. His involvement in multi-institutional collaborations and leadership roles in professional societies underscore his commitment to advancing the field collectively.

A dedicated educator, Dr. Hanna has mentored a generation of radiologists, guiding fellows and junior faculty with an emphasis on fostering academic curiosity and clinical rigor. As former Program Director of Emory’s Emergency and Trauma Imaging Fellowship, he has shaped specialized training programs that emphasize competency in emergent diagnostic imaging, interdisciplinary collaboration, and adaptive use of technology. His vision for UMSOM includes expanding educational initiatives that prepare future radiologists for an AI-augmented clinical environment.

Dr. Hanna’s leadership extends to national radiology organizations, serving currently on the Board of Directors of the American Society of Emergency Radiology, where he chairs the Annual Meeting Program Committee. Additionally, he is poised to assume the Chair of the Emergency Radiology Committee for the American College of Radiology, further cementing his influence in shaping policy, standards, and research directions in emergency radiology.

Dean Mark T. Gladwin of UMSOM highlights that Dr. Hanna’s appointment heralds a future-ready department capable of leveraging technological innovations and clinical expertise to meet the rising demands for early and accurate diagnosis of complex diseases such as cancer. With an integrated vision for expanding radiology services regionally, enhancing faculty recruitment, and bolstering research capacity, Dr. Hanna’s stewardship promises sustained growth and innovation.

Dr. Hanna succeeds Interim Chair Dr. William Regine and Co-Chair Dr. Bert O’Malley, prominent leaders who have stewarded the department during transitional periods. The seamless leadership transition reflects a shared commitment to excellence in diagnostic care and academic medicine. Dr. Regine and Dr. O’Malley endorse Dr. Hanna’s capabilities, emphasizing his operational acumen and vision to advance faculty development and institutional growth.

Educated at Emory University School of Medicine, Dr. Hanna completed his diagnostic radiology residency and musculoskeletal radiology fellowship at Emory, coupled with an internship at Saint Vincent’s Hospital Manhattan. His rigorous training and extensive experience have equipped him to meet the complex challenges in emergency radiology today, including balancing clinical demands with evolving research paradigms and technological disruptions.

In his forthcoming role, Dr. Hanna aims not only to sustain high standards but to pioneer new models of radiologic care that integrate real-time data analytics, AI-enhanced diagnosis, and personalized imaging protocols. These initiatives align with overarching trends in precision medicine and value-based care, fostering interventions that improve outcomes while optimizing resource allocation.

The University of Maryland medical community awaits Dr. Hanna’s formal installation, anticipating a new era marked by innovation, inclusive education, and enhanced patient-centered radiology services. His commitment to faculty collaboration, interdisciplinary research, and leveraging emergent technologies echoes a broader transformation within medicine, making this appointment a significant milestone for the institution and the field of radiology.

News Publication Date: Not specified

Web References:

• https://www.medschool.umaryland.edu/about-dean-gladwin/
• https://www.medschool.umaryland.edu/radiology/
• https://www.umms.org/ummc/locations/diagnostic-radiology