The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) said it supports a new Pennsylvania bill that requires licensing of medical imaging professionals, radiation therapists, radiologist assistants, and trainees.
Pennsylvania Senate Bill 1281 Licensing of Medical Imaging Professionals (SB 1281) was introduced July 12. If successful, SB 1281 would require anyone who performs medical imaging and radiation therapy procedures in Pennsylvania to be licensed through the State Board of Medicine. The bill would amend the Medical Practice Act of 1985 (P.L.457, No.112).
Modalities that would be licensed under this legislation include x-ray, nuclear medicine, diagnostic sonography, MRI, CT, and radiation therapy, noted one of the bill's sponsors, Sen. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-PA), in a memo. The bill also addresses the field of radiologist assistants, which are advanced radiography specialists.
Currently, there is no Pennsylvania state requirement for medical imaging professionals and radiation therapists to be licensed. PA SB 1281 establishes the scope of practice for each modality, sets requirements for the licensure and renewal of licenses, determines proper training, and develops standards to improve medical imaging and radiation therapy procedures. Dentists, chiropractors, podiatrists, or veterinarians would not be affected, according to Culver in the memo.
The bill also repeals Section 45 of the Medical Practice Act of 1985. That section currently covers the training and education required to perform radiologic procedures.
The ASRT noted that this bill is also supported by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, the Pennsylvania Society of Radiologic Technologists, the Philadelphia Society of Radiologic Technologists, and other partner organizations.
The bill was referred to the state's Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee in mid-July.
