Bloomington-Normal has a long history of local radiology services, dating back to the 1930’s when Dr. Edwin Rypins first arrived in the community to practice radiology. In the late 40’s to early 50’s, Bloomington-Normal was introduced to two other radiologists, Dr. George Irwin and Dr. Harold Shinall. Years later, in 1974, these two physicians joined forces with St. Joseph Hospital and Mennonite Hospital to form Bloomington Radiology (originally named Bloomington Radiology and Nuclear Medicine SC).

By 1977, Bloomington Radiology was comprised of five doctors, including Dr. George Irwin, Dr. Harold Shinall, Dr. Raymond Yin, Dr. Tony Chan and Dr. Charles Melchor. Dr. William Cooley later joined the group, bringing the number up to six physicians. Dr. Melchor served as president of the practice in 1977, Dr. Yin in 1978, and Dr. Cooley from 1979 until January 2006.

The group’s first private office was located on East St. across from Mennonite Hospital in Bloomington, providing services for plain radiographic imaging, chest and extremities, and interpretations from outside entities. In the early 80’s, the office moved to Towanda Avenue and the services increased substantially. At this point, the group was comprised of eight doctors. New services included a radiographic and fluoroscopic room, mammography room, and DEXA (bone density). In the late 80’s, Brokaw Hospital and Mennonite hospital merged to one campus on Franklin Street in Normal, expanding the existing Brokaw Hospital and adding the first MRI unit in the area. Bloomington Radiology proved to be very instrumental in assisting with the departmental plans.

In 2003, OSF St. Joseph Medical Center approached Bloomington Radiology to joint venture an imaging center. The Ft. Jesse Imaging Center and Gale Keeran Center for Women was constructed as part of the Center for Health on Ft. Jesse in Normal. Opening in 2004, the center is a full service free standing, completely digital imaging center located on the growing east side of Bloomington-Normal.

Currently Bloomington Radiology provides services to three hospitals and two imaging centers, and maintains a significant level of outside business through its private office.