The People Behind the Imaging: Liina Põder, MD, and Chelsy Coco

Ultrasound relies on precision and teamwork. Every scan is a partnership between sonographer and clinician, where both skill and intuition contribute to image quality and diagnosis. During Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month, UCSF recognizes Liina Põder, MD, Chelsy Coco, and the remarkable ultrasound team whose expertise and compassion ensure that every image contributes meaningfully to patient care.

Dr. Põder, Professor and Modality Director for Ultrasound, describes sonographers as "often the first to identify subtle or unexpected findings - from early pregnancy, maternal or fetal complications to transplant or oncology-related abnormalities." Their skill, she notes, "directly influences diagnostic accuracy and timely management."

At UCSF, sonographers do more than simply acquire images. They integrate clinical context, patient history, and real-time assessment to ensure that each exam reflects a holistic understanding of the individual in their care.

For Dr. Põder, ultrasound represents the intersection of science and human connection. "It is a real-time, hands-on extension of the clinical examination," she explains. "Each exam is a dialogue between anatomy, physiology, and patient presentation, requiring both technical skill and interpretive insight."

The immediacy of ultrasound not only enhances diagnostic insight but also fosters meaningful patient interactions, helping individuals feel seen, heard, and cared for in moments of uncertainty.

Chelsy Coco, Ultrasound Operations Manager and Chief Sonographer, shares that same devotion to technical mastery and compassionate care. "Ultrasound is a highly operator-dependent modality, and our talented sonographers at UCSF elevate it to an art form—finding acoustic windows into the body and telling each patient's story with precision and care," she shares. Chelsy emphasizes that ultrasound offers a non-invasive unique, real-time view of the human body, from visualizing blood flow with spectral Doppler to witnessing the movement of a developing fetus in three dimensions.

As Operations Manager, Chelsy champions a culture of growth and excellence. "Supporting our team means recruiting the right talent to uphold UCSF's legacy of excellence," she notes. "I'm humbled to serve and lead such a phenomenal group of sonographers. You make a difference every day."

Chelsy's passion for teamwork is echoed by her colleagues across the department. Dr. Põder highlights Darren Marin, Lisa Liu, and Jennifer Paoletti, whose leadership and expertise strengthen UCSF's ultrasound service. Their collaboration and insight exemplify the shared values that define the team's approach to imaging and patient care.

Together, these professionals exemplify UCSF's commitment to advancing imaging quality while nurturing a compassionate environment for patients and colleagues alike.