To all Imaging Professionals:
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has introduced a proposal that would allow nurses to, "Order, perform, supervise, and interpret laboratory and imaging studies." The ASRT strongly opposes this measure as only registered radiologic technologists should perform procedures that use ionizing radiation. Certified nurse practitioners do not have the education, experience or skills required to perform highly technical procedures like x-ray, computed tomography, nuclear medicine, vascular-interventional or bone densitometry. This proposal is a threat to patients and registered radiologic technologists.
In proposed § 17.415(d)(1)(i), a Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP) would have full practice authority to provide the following services: Comprehensive histories, physical examinations and other health assessment and screening activities; diagnose, treat, and manage patients with acute and chronic illnesses and diseases; order, perform, supervise, and interpret laboratory and imaging studies; prescribe medication and durable medical equipment and; make appropriate referrals for patients and families; and aid in health promotion, disease prevention, health education, and counseling as well as the diagnosis and management of acute and chronic diseases.
The OSRT encourages all radiologic technologists to join in our effort to oppose this shortsighted proposal. Please submit your comments to the federal government and let them know that you strongly oppose the VA’s efforts to bypass patient safety measures by allowing nonqualified certified nursing professionals to perform medical imaging procedures. You can submit comments to the Federal Register at https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2016/05/25/2016-12338/advanced-practice-registered-nurses#h-4. (Copy and paste this link which will take you directly to the comment page: https://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=VA-2016-VHA-0011.)
The OSRT strongly opposes this measure! Please submit your comments right away and be sure to submit by the deadline of July 25, 2016. The ASRT has offered the following wording, but you may use this or use your own comments:
I strongly oppose the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs proposal that would allow certified nurse practitioners to, "Order, perform, supervise, and interpret laboratory and imaging studies." Certified nurse practitioners do not have the education, experience or skills required to perform highly technical procedures like x-ray, computed tomography, nuclear medicine, vascular-interventional studies or bone densitometry. Only registered radiologic technologists should perform procedures that use ionizing radiation because they are the healthcare professionals who are specifically educated and certified in providing safe, high quality imaging studies.
Our profession needs many strong voices to let the government know our position. This is incredibly important to our profession, and I urge you to take action!
Terri Bruckner, PhD, RT (R), (CV)
OSRT Senior Board Chair