Dr. Jason Stephenson reflects on his multifaceted career and seeks new challenges
If you’ve ever had an MRI, Jason Stephenson, M.D. may have been the one interpreting your scan. Specializing in musculoskeletal radiology, Stephenson works for Radsource, a company offering advanced MRI interpretations to orthopedic clinics across the country. His expertise in reviewing scans of patients with musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, sports injuries and more, plays a crucial role in diagnosing complex conditions that may not be immediately obvious.
“Diagnostics is my main job,” said Stephenson. “Radiologists play an important role in interpreting images and extracting useful information for patients and clinicians. This includes making complicated diagnoses, offering recommendations for treatment and further testing, and identifying unexpected findings. For instance, if a patient is imaged for upper back pain, my job is to identify musculoskeletal abnormalities in the back but to also assess for unexpected and even life-threatening problems in the visible structures of the chest and upper abdomen visible on these images”.
In addition to his work with Radsource, Stephenson is a part-time Clinical Instructor of Radiology at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health (UWSMPH). He joined UWSMPH’s Department of Radiology in 2012, where he taught, conducted clinical work and helped develop the new medical school curriculum, which launched in 2016.
Before leaving his full-time UW role in 2023, Stephenson held the roles of Associate Dean for Multicultural Affairs for Health Professions Learners, Director of Medical Student Education for the Department of Radiology, and Creator and Integrated Block Leader for the Mind and Motion Course.
Moving into 2025, Stephenson says his career is at a transitional point.
“I’ve built a unique skill set that’s now more useful outside the academic environment. I’m exploring where I can make the most impact,” he explained.
Stephenson’s journey into radiology started with a desire to solve diagnostic challenges and engage with patients. He initially taught high school biology and chemistry after earning his undergraduate degree from Stanford University and found teaching and mentoring students rewarding. After a few years, looking for more curricular complexity, he pursued medical school at Washington University in St. Louis, followed by a residency and fellowship in radiology at the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology. His first faculty job in radiology was at the University of Pennsylvania, before being recruited to SMPH.
Throughout his career, Stephenson has made it a point to innovate teaching methods. At UW, he introduced technology to enhance distance learning, believing that a meaningful educational experience makes a lasting impact. His student-centered approach, which focuses on understanding students’ needs and learning styles, resonated with his students and led to additional teaching opportunities.
“My philosophy comes from my parents, who were both educators,” said Stephenson. “I aim to be transparent with my students, explaining the rationale behind decisions, which fosters trust and connection.”
His approach has not only helped students but also patients. In his clinical work, Stephenson strives to be authentic and build rapport quickly.
“In a bone biopsy or spine pain intervention appointment, I may have only 30-45 minutes to gain trust, render comfort and do a procedure,” he said. “It’s rewarding when a patient leaves with less pain and more clarity about their condition.”
One of the highlights of his role in radiology is problem-solving. He likes being presented with a challenge and getting to provide insight that helps doctors and patients.
Stephenson also finds it fulfilling to be a resource for educators and students.
“I am very interested in outreach and advising, especially when it comes to talking to students who are curious about or interested in what it’s like to pursue college or a career in medicine,” he explained.
Stephenson is looking to apply the skills gained in his academic career to serving the community and improving access and knowledge.
Outside of work, Stephenson’s life revolves around his family. His wife, Laura, PhD, is as a Cross-College Advising Service Instructor at UW-Madison, and together they have twins: son Walker, who played Charlie in Children Theater of Madison’s “Willie Wonka” 2019 production, is a theater major at UCLA, and daughter Hunter is a pre-med student at Brown University.
Stephenson is also active in the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Madison (WI) Alumni chapter.
“The fraternity has been an important source of peace and fellowship for me,” he said. “It’s helped me deepen my connection with the Madison community.”
Despite his evolving career, Stephenson’s commitment to education, patient care and community remains unwavering. Whether reviewing MRIs, teaching future doctors or serving those around him, his approach is always thoughtful, authentic and service-driven.
