We want to know people who benefit the whole (world). People worldwide need inspiration, science, goodness, and reminders that beauty can be.
ARTTMODERNMIAMI NEWS has begun interviewing inspiring Turkish individuals who exemplify pride and courage. Our goal is to highlight people whose success can motivate us.
Our first interview was with Professor Dr. Mehmet Kocak from Chicago Rush University, the vice president of Research in the Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Department. He is a Neuroradiology Specialist and a very valuable doctor who has received an award in his field. He took his precious time and answered our questions. As ARTTMODERNMIAMI NEWSPAPER, we thank you.
ARTTMODERNMIAMI NEWSPAPER: Mr. Mehmet, you work in the field of “Neuroradiology” at Chicago Rush University. What is “Neuroradiology”?
PROF. DR. MEHMET KOCAK: It is a branch of science related to the imaging of the central nervous system, also called advanced imaging. We also apply biopsy and pain treatments under imaging as interventional radiology.
ARTTMODERNMIAMI NEWSPAPER: What is your field in “Neuroradiology”?
PROF. DR. MEHMET KOCAK: My specialty is brain tumors and functional imaging. Performing pain treatments under imaging and performing a biopsy are also within my scope.
ARTTMODERNMIAMI NEWSPAPER: Where did you work before Rush University and what year did you come to America? What was the reason behind you making this decision? (Like school or invitation.)
PROF. DR. MEHMET KOCAK: After graduating from Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, I started my specialization training in the Nuclear Medicine Department of the same faculty. After completing my specialization here, I started working in the USA in 1995 by passing the necessary exams for doctors to work.
ARTTMODERNMIAMI NEWSPAPER: We heard that you received an award in your field. Can you tell us a little about it? Is the Turkish Ministry of Health aware of the award you received?
PROF. DR. MEHMET KOCAK: It was an award related to functional MRI in imaging of the motor cortex. It is an award given to young scientists by the American Society of Neuroradiology.
ARTTMODERNMIAMI NEWSPAPER: You studied medicine at the Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine. Do you know of other doctors from Capa’s school working in your field? If not, are you the first Turkish doctor in this area?
PROF. DR. MEHMET KOCAK: Many doctors from Capa’s school work very successfully in different states of America.
ARTTMODERNMIAMI NEWSPAPER: I am sure you have made numerous sacrifices to reach your current position. Can you provide a few examples of these?
PROF. DR. MEHMET KOCAK: Being a doctor in a foreign country requires constant and disciplined work.
ARTTMODERNMIAMI GAZETE: Last question 🙂 How does Dr. Mehmet Kocak spend 24 hours?
PROF. DR. MEHMET KOCAK: I get up at 5 AM every morning, and it takes me half an hour to reach the hospital. CT and MRIs taken need to be read and evaluated promptly. On some days, we exchange consultations and academic information with fellow doctors from other branches at academic meetings. Even if the evening shift ends at 5 PM, it may be necessary to interpret the images of important cases that can be taken until 10 PM.
ARTTMODERNMIAMI GAZETE: We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Mehmet Kocak and wish him continued success in his endeavors.
WHO IS PROF. DR. MEHMET KOCAK?
He graduated from Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine. Currently, he is a Professor of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Vice President of Research, and Director of the Neuroradiology Fellowship Program, and Advanced Imaging Fellowship Program at Chicago Rush University Medical Center.
