107 Years of Imaging, Innovation, and Community Care: A Look Back at TRA’s Legacy in the South Sound

TRA Medical Imaging is proud to celebrate 107 years of continuous service to the South Puget Sound. Our history is rooted in local care, shaped by medical innovation, and carried forward by a dedicated team that continues to put patients first.

A Century in the Making

Our story began in 1918, when a group of forward-thinking physicians saw the potential of x-ray technology to transform patient care. These early pioneers—who would go on to form Tacoma Radiological Associates and Medical Imaging Northwest—introduced this groundbreaking diagnostic tool to local hospitals. At a time when radiology was still new, they laid the foundation for what would eventually become one of the region’s most trusted imaging providers.

By the 1950s and 60s, our radiologists were serving patients in more hospitals across Pierce County, building strong clinical partnerships and expanding our presence in the community. As imaging advanced, so did our capabilities—CT scans, MRI, nuclear medicine, and ultrasound brought new clarity to diagnosis and treatment. And with each step forward, TRA remained committed to staying at the leading edge.

Always Evolving to Meet Local Needs

Throughout the decades, we’ve grown to meet the changing needs of the South Sound. We helped introduce PET imaging to the region, played a key role in the early adoption of digital mammography and 3D breast imaging, and have continued to bring new services like low-dose lung cancer screening, PSMA PET/CT for prostate cancer, and outpatient image-guided procedures that offer alternatives to surgery.

TRA’s footprint now includes a network of outpatient imaging centers across Pierce and Thurston counties. We proudly read for 2 major hospital systems and partner with independent clinics, specialists, and primary care providers to ensure patients get the answers they need—quickly and accurately.

Our commitment extends beyond the exam room. We’ve worked hand-in-hand with referring providers to streamline access to imaging, supported community wellness events and health fairs, and helped thousands of patients navigate their care with clarity and confidence.

Innovation Rooted in Humanity

While we’ve embraced new technology and diagnostic advances, our work has always been grounded in something simple and essential: people. The technologists who put patients at ease. The radiologists who treat each study like it’s their own family member. The schedulers, nurses, and administrative staff who work hard to make every visit run smoothly and every patient feel supported. Together, they form the care team that makes high-quality imaging possible.

We’ve seen how something as routine as a mammogram can catch cancer early. We’ve witnessed how a fast, accurate CT scan can change the trajectory of a stroke. And we’ve watched how minimally invasive treatments—once unimaginable—can restore mobility and improve quality of life. These aren’t just medical advances. They’re human ones.

Looking Ahead

As we mark this 107-year milestone, we do so with deep gratitude—for our patients, our hospital partners, and our team members, many of whom have served our community for decades. Together, we’ve built something lasting.

The next century of TRA will be shaped by the same principles that have carried us this far: thoughtful growth, clinical excellence, and a commitment to serve our community with care and integrity.

To all who have been part of our story—thank you. We’re honored to continue this work and proud to call the South Sound home.

 Learn More