Change in Michigan Rules Supports Technologists and Radiologist Assistants

In a victory for technologists and radiologist assistants, Michigan in March approved changes that address who can operate ionizing radiation equipment in the state. The changes went into effect immediately. The state also established initial and continuing education requirements for limited scope radiographers and radiologist assistants.

The changes help ensure that only technologists with appropriate education and training can operate medical imaging equipment in Michigan. That improves recognition of the professional preparation technologists bring to their roles in health care.

Long-Term Work Pays Off

“This win has taken more than 40 years of work,” explains Dana Aragon, Director of Government Affairs. Five years ago, ARRT joined the Michigan Society of Radiologic Technologists (MSRT) in its attempts to persuade the Michigan Legislature to require licensure for radiologic technologists.

This year, the organizations bypassed the legislature, focusing instead on the state’s administrative rules. “We worked with the state to update the language that existed on equipment operation, education, clinical requirements, and credentialing,” Aragon says.

Advocating for the Profession

ARRT is involved in advocacy efforts with other state and federal laws, too. Our Government Affairs department focuses on promoting patient safety and protecting the value of your profession by:

• Helping develop and support federal and state laws that improve quality and safety standards
• Promoting efforts that require professionals to have consistent qualifications in medical imaging and radiation therapy
• Advocating on behalf of Registered Technologists (R.T.s) in all disciplines to promote the best patient outcomes

Our Work in Michigan Isn’t Done

Despite the big win, challenges remain. The Michigan legislature is considering a bill that would enable advanced-practice registered nurses to order, perform, and interpret X-rays.

“The bill doesn’t require education in radiobiology, medical radiation production, radiography positioning, image evaluation, or radiation protection,” Aragon says. “The changes would lower the industry standards for personnel who perform medical procedures.”

ARRT and MSRT are opposing that bill.