A bill introduced in the Senate on August 5, 2010 would set forth minimum credentialing standards for medical personnel who “perform or plan” medical imaging or radiation therapy procedures. The Consistency, Accuracy, Responsibility and Excellence (CARE) in Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Act, introduced by Sen. Harkin (D-IA) and Sen. Enzi (R-WY) responds to concerns that procedures like x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs are increasingly being performed by personnel without adequate training, and would go into effect in 2013. Currently, standards vary from state to state; the CARE Act isn’t meant to supplant or diminish more stringent standards that exist in some states. In addition, the Bill creates a grandfathering process for technicians who currently provide medical imaging or radiation therapy but don’t meet the new education standards. It also establishes alternative standards for rural and underserved populations.
Given broad-based support, according to a press release from Sen. Harkin, the Bill is expected to pass this year.
For more information, contact Carey F. Kalmowitz, Esq. or Adrienne Dresevic, Esq. at (248) 996-8510 or (212) 734-0128, visit the Diagnostic Imaging Arrangements specialty page, or the HLP website.