technologists generally must have graduated from an accredited program and pass an
examination. Many employers prefer to hire registered radiographers. To be recertified,
radiographers must complete 24 hours of continuing education every other year.
Other states have legislative proposals for similar legislation pending. The law may
require evidence of ARRT certification or a state-licensing exam. In some states,
limited or restricted licenses may be granted, allowing the licensee to radiograph only
certain body parts, that is the chest, extremities, or skull.
b. Additional Testing Not Always Required. If you are registered, the
requirement for additional testing may be waived (depending on the state). No military
requirements for licensure or certification currently exist. But, some states require
licensure of all of its technologists. Licensure is necessary for work in the private sector
in those states with licensure laws.
5-12. The Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981
The Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981 established that
radiographer programs should be accredited. It concludes that trainees of accredited
institutions are competently trained and pose no risk to the public, if properly
credentialed. It urges voluntary compliance by states in a process monitored by the
Secretary of Health and Human Services. It requires compliance by all federal
agencies. Hospitals, therefore, seek accreditation under the Joint Commission on
Accreditation for Health Care Organizations and technologists are trained in accredited
programs.
MD0064
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