A couple of months ago, the West Virginia Society of Radiologic Technologists (WVSRT) was notified of the potential loss of their state licensing board through new state-level legislation. As a result, licensing of medical imaging technologists would be repealed. The WVSRT provided testimony against the legislation and worked deligently to protect the existing medical imaging licensure law.

West Virginia Society of Radiologic Technologists President Jacqueline Johnston, R.T.(R)(M)(QM) stated that the proposed legislation would put patients’ health and safety at risk while attempting a maneuver to reduce government oversight of health professions. West Virginia has more than 3,100 board-licensed radiologic technologists.The ASRT and WVSRT worked together to engage West Virginia technologists in a campaign that included media outreach and emails to lawmakers. R.T.s in WV sent more than 500 communications to legislators opposing the proposed legislation. According to recent news from ASRT, lawmakers in West Virginia have now adjourned without taking action on companion bills that would have eliminated the 40-year-old West Virginia Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Technology Board of Examiners. This is a great example of what a State RT organization can do--save R.T.s practice licenses while looking out for protection of consumer-patients!

In Ohio, the Ohio Society of Radiologic Technologists (OSRT) works diligently in representing Ohio Medical Imaging Technologists.OSRT has a long-history of a dedicated Health Policy Committee that works along with legislative consultants, paid for by OSRT, in conducting oversight of Ohio legislative activities. The Ohio Department of Health has two committees in which OSRT representatives hold active membership, the Radiation Advisory Council (RAC) and its sub-committee the Radiation Generating Equipment (REC). OSRT realizes the importance of these committees as they review licensure rules, radiation use rules, and the role of the medical imaging profession related to patient safety. Help OSRT help you! If for no other reason, support OSRT so they can support you! Join today!