The proposed bill would update current statutes governing radiologic technologists and radiologist assistants by modifying the approval process for schools of radiologic technology. It would allow the Department of Health Services (DHS) to approve schools based on accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs or the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, rather than solely from the Committee on Allied Health Accreditation. Additionally, it would remove the requirement for a minimum of 24 months of full-time study and reduce the required clinical experience from 1,800 hours to 1,650 hours. The bill also introduces new requirements for classroom work to cover an introduction to other imaging modalities instead of radiation therapy, expands examination subjects for certification, and establishes conditions for general supervision of radiologist assistants. Furthermore, the bill proposes several updates, including the addition of "registered nurse practitioner" to the list of health professionals exempt from needing additional licensure to use diagnostic x-ray machines and the introduction of a new section, 32-2819.01, outlining conditions for radiologist assistants operating under general supervision. It also modifies educational and certification requirements, specifying that schools must be accredited by recognized bodies and detailing necessary clinical experience hours. The bill emphasizes patient safety and quality of care, mandating that facilities employing certified individuals report any suspected violations to the department for investigation. Overall, these updates aim to enhance the safety and efficacy of radiologic practices in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-2804, 32-2813, 32-2815, 32-2819, 32-2841, 36-3601, 32-2812, 30-651, 32-4301, 32-2821
House Engrossed Version: 30-672, 32-2804, 32-2813, 32-2815, 32-2819, 32-2841, 36-3601, 30-654, 30-694, 32-2812, 30-651, 32-4301, 32-2821
Senate Engrossed Version: 30-672, 32-2804, 32-2813, 32-2815, 32-2819, 32-2819.01, 32-2841, 36-3601, 30-654, 30-694, 32-2812, 30-651, 32-4301, 32-2821
Chaptered Version: 30-672, 32-2804, 32-2813, 32-2815, 32-2819, 32-2819.01, 32-2841, 36-3601, 30-654, 30-694, 32-2812, 30-651, 32-4301, 32-2821