Kennith Layton, M.D. (R-NEU ’05, R-ANG ’06)
Board Member
(originally published in 2014)
Vice Chairman, Department of Radiology
Director, Interventional Neuroradiology
Clinical Assistant Professor
Texas A&M Health Science Center
Baylor University Medical Center
Dallas, Texas
“The coordination of care was strikingly different from anything I had encountered. It was clear that Mayo Clinic was something special and different.”
- Fellowship: Interventional Neuroradiology, Diagnostic Neuroradiology, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education
- Residency: Diagnostic Radiology, Baylor University Medical Center
- Medical School: University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City
- Graduate: Master of Science in Healthcare Management, University of Texas at Dallas
- Undergraduate: Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
- Native of: Stillwater, Oklahoma
Why did you decide to pursue medicine?
I decided on medicine when I was in 10th grade. Science and math were my favorite subjects, and I challenged myself to attempt the hardest thing possible. Going to medical school after studying engineering in undergraduate school satisfied those needs.
Why did you train at Mayo Clinic?
The Neuroradiology Department at Mayo Clinic is unrivaled for its tremendous resources, facilities and teachers. I interviewed at several top-notch neuroradiology fellowship programs, but Mayo was undeniably the only place I wanted to train.
What was your initial impression of Mayo Clinic?
The coordination of care was strikingly different from anything I had encountered. It was clear that Mayo Clinic was something special and different. The entire process was focused on assuring the best outcome for each patient.
How does Mayo Clinic influence your practice?
When I’m confronted with an obstacle, I often ask myself, “How would this have been approached at Mayo Clinic?” The Mayo Clinic way can be difficult to emulate outside of Mayo, but I try very hard to inject this part of my training into everything I do professionally.
I think Mayo gave me a better understanding of what the ideal practice of medicine should look like. Mayo provides the gold standard for medical care in the world. I will always be grateful for the chance to train at Mayo Clinic and thankful for all who contributed to my training.
What valuable lesson did you learn at Mayo Clinic?
The right answer to a question is not always the most popular answer. You should always stand your ground if you are convinced your solution is the best for a patient.
How do you contribute to the Mayo Clinic Alumni Association?
I provide perspective from an interventional neuroradiologist who lives in a large metropolitan area outside of Mayo Clinic’s sphere of influence. I hosted a recent Texas regional Mayo Clinic Alumni Association program, which was enjoyable.
What do you do in your spare time?
I read and study about World War II Pacific theater history, bass fish with my son and listen to old country music.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I am an avid martial arts enthusiast and have spent years training in Muay Thai.