Catherine Phillips, MD, associate professor of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, has been named to the Forty Under 40 Class of 2025 by Radiology Business magazine.
The online magazine called Philips “a visionary leader in academic radiology whose impact spans clinical excellence, operational innovation and educational advancement.”
As director of Inpatient Operations and medical director of Ultrasound for the Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, “she has transformed radiology workflows and patient care” across Vanderbilt Health in Middle Tennessee.
In its annual Forty Under 40 feature, Radiology Business, a publication of Innovate Healthcare, honors radiology and imaging “up-and-comers who … are making their mark on the specialty.”
A 2012 graduate of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Phillips completed a diagnostic radiology residency and fellowship in Women’s Imaging at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. She was a member of the Brigham and Women’s staff and taught at Harvard Medical School before joining the Vanderbilt faculty in 2021.
According to Radiology Business’ citation, Phillips’ “implementation of an MRI escalation pathway for acute spinal cord compromise has improved critical care delivery, while her leadership in expanding ultrasound services has increased access in underserved regions.
“Catherine has unified protocols across Vanderbilt’s regional locations, ensuring consistent, high-quality imaging services,” the citation continued. “Her servant leadership style fosters collaboration and empowers teams to deliver better outcomes. She is also a global educator, committed to sharing best practices and advancing radiology standards.”
“I’m honored to be recognized, but most excited about the work ahead,” Phillips told Vanderbilt Radiology Communications. “Radiology is evolving rapidly, and I’m grateful to be part of the incredible Vanderbilt Radiology team that’s pushing innovation, quality and patient-centered care forward every day.”
