Bradley Johnson is our dedicated Supervisor of the Histology Department. With an impressive background in histology and management, his passion for the artistry of histology and commitment to providing accurate diagnoses have played a vital role in patient care. We’re excited to sit down with Bradley to discuss his experience and role at SBMF.
1. What is your educational and career background?
In the summer of 1973, between my junior and senior year of High School, I started working for the South Bend Medical Foundation. After working for the SBMF, I knew this was an organization with a lot of long-standing employees and a good solid history of care and dedication to the community.
I graduated from the CLA program at the Foundation in 1975, then moved to Indianapolis the next year. After getting registered as a Histotech in 1981, I worked at several hospitals and private laboratories before training in New York City at the Ackerman Academy of Dermatopathology. Once I completed my training, I worked as the Manager of the Histology Departments at IU and Riley Children’s Hospital. I eventually moved back to South Bend and began working for SBMF again in 2003.
2. What inspired you to study histology?
I got interested in Histology through a good friend. My friend who trained me always referred to Histology as the “art department” of the laboratory and being the son of a carpenter, I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands. I think that is what made Histology so interesting to me because, like woodworking, you are using your hands to create something important to someone. Whether it’s a slide of diagnostic biopsy or a toy chest for your grandkid, it’s equally important to that person and me that it be done accurately to the best of my ability.
3. What is your role at SBMF, and what are your daily responsibilities?
As the Supervisor of the Histology Department at SBMF, I lead a dedicated team of technicians, collaborating closely with my Technical Specialist and lead techs. We oversee the round-the-clock operation of the department, managing essential areas such as budgeting, personnel, scheduling, maintenance, troubleshooting, and above all, ensuring the quality of slides are prepared for the Pathologists.
4. Why is SBMF’s work an important part of providing healthcare in the area they serve?
One of the key contributions that SBMF makes to the community is ensuring that the blood products donated to us stay within our local area. Being in close proximity to numerous hospitals, clinics, and private practices, we operate around the clock to process patients’ tissue specimens. This commitment enables us to deliver prompt and precise diagnoses to our clients precisely when they need them, ensuring optimal patient care.
5. Outside of work, how do you spend your time?
I enjoy playing golf and hanging out with my kids and grandkids. My wife and I are finally putting the finishing touches on a 103-year-old house that we gutted down to the studs and rebuilt ourselves.
