I'm an RT-R, a registered radiography technologist qualified in
radiation exposure to humans. I have completed 6 semesters of college
and passed a national registry test which certifies that I have the
knowledge and practical experience to make medical images using
radiation. In other words, I am a certified x-ray tech.
Did you know
that some states don't require a person to receive training before
exposing another person to x-rays? Currently, only 37 states
require a person to be accredited through an educational program. It is
scary to think it may be a doctor's aid or his/her secretary who is
shooting x-rays through your body. By not requiring a person to be
professionally trained, those 13 non-certifying states are putting
people at a higher risk of unnecessary radiation exposure, or a medical
misdiagnosis due to low quality images.
NC is one state where certification and licensing is not required. According to ASRT.org,
in February over 200 certified x-ray techs spoke with legislators about
requiring licensing standards. Brenda Greenberg, R.T.(R)(CT) said,
"Medical radiation can be dangerous when administered incorrectly, so
it's crucial that we make sure that every medical imaging and radiation
therapy professional is educated, competent and understands the
importance of making sure patients receive the lowest dose of medical
radiation possible."
Why do some states not have laws regulating
radiology technicians? Some point their fingers at lobbying by doctors
who operate small clinics and who wish to keep their costs down by not
paying the higher salary a certified technician demands. Others blame
the expense of setting up a state run licensing office.
Whoever
is to blame, patients need to speak up about their concerns over
radiation exposure. If you live in one of the thirteen states without
certification standards, make sure your doctor or local hospital uses
only registered technicians during x-ray, CT, and other medical imaging
procedures. Your health may be at stake.
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