There’s a story behind every woman working in IR. This September, as part of the Women in Medicine month, we are happy to offer you an insight into their inspiring journeys – if you’d like to participate in an Women in IR interview or you’d like to recommend someone to be interviewed, please contact us for more information.
Dr. Melissa Skanes graduated Pharmacy school, Medical school and subsequently a radiology residency at Memorial University of Newfoundland. In 2012 – 2013, she completed a Vascular & Interventional Radiology fellowship at UHN in Toronto. After this, she moved back home to Newfoundland to begin a staff position as a Vascular & Interventional Radiologist. She is currently the Clinical Chief of Interventional Radiology for the Eastern Health region, as well as an executive member of the Newfoundland & Labrador Association of Radiologists. Her scope of practice is predominantly interventional oncology, hepatobiliary, urology, and dialysis interventions. Currently, she is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Radiology with Memorial University, rotation head for Interventional Radiology in residency, and a member of the Residency Training Committee at Memorial. Dr. Skanes is also heavily involved with the state of the art simulation lab at Memorial University, with a predominant focus of teaching medical students and Radiology residents image guided procedures.
What brought you to interventional radiology?
Our Radiology residency has the unique advantage of no fellows. Therefore, we obtain very early hands-on training for all procedures. I really enjoyed the procedural work during my residency.
What is one thing that is exciting about the future of IR?
Over the last 10-15 years, the number of new and innovative procedures in IR has grown exponentially. This will continue for quite some time.
What is one remarkable moment/achievement in your career?
Being appointed Interventional Radiology Chief for the Eastern Health region.
Any hobbies, what do enjoy doing outside of work?
Spending time with my family, being active and enjoying the incredible great outdoors of NL!
What is one interesting thing you want to share with us about you?
I played 5 years of varsity basketball for the Memorial SeaHawks during undergrad.