Meet the NWR Team: Dr. Peter Arfken

Northwest Radiology would not be successful without the hard work and commitment of our dedicated team! We are proud to have such outstanding team members who not only provide exceptional care to our clients, but who also work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly every day.

We want to thank our team members for their service and show everyone what a wonderful team we have, so we want you to “Meet the NWR Team.”

Each month, we will feature team members who are celebrating work anniversaries with Northwest Radiology.

Please meet … Dr. Peter Arfken. He joined the team in July 1981, making this his 35-year anniversary with Northwest Radiology! Learn more about Dr. Arfken.

p-arfkenQ: What is your role and subspecialty with Northwest Radiology?

A: I have a body imaging fellowship and do body imaging and nuclear medicine and am section head of nuclear medicine.

Q: Why did you choose to work in the field of radiology and, specifically, your subspecialty?

A: I chose radiology because the diagnosis of diseases was more intellectually satisfying rather the actual treatment. At the time I did my fellowship at IU, the fellowship subspecialization was chosen by the department chairman if one wished to remain at IU. So I had some input, but his decision was final. I have no regrets of the area chosen. Fortunately this situation has changed.

Q: How did you get started with NWR? Why have you stayed so many years?

A: Actually, I was not actively seeking a position in Indianapolis until someone from NWR called and asked me to interview. I have stayed for 35 years because I have found the work challenging and rewarding.

Q: Describe NWR in one word.

A: Progressive

Q: How have changes in technology affected your job and the radiology industry in general?

A: The technology changes since I started have been mind boggling. The current CT capabilities were only dreamed about and now are possible. MRI and PET/CT were not even considered, and now they are crucial for modern radiology. It has been challenging but rewarding mastering the new technologies.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Hobbies, volunteer work?

A: My wife and I have been bee keepers for over 10 years and do our best to keep as many as possible supplied with local honey. My wife and I also enjoy collecting antiques, and we hope to open an antique store in Tennessee when I retire. I also enjoy backpacking, including six trips into the Grand Canyon. My latest trip this year was a five-day trip into Canyonlands National Park in Utah.

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