This bill proposes to amend current statutes by allowing the use of particle accelerators for treating human diseases under general supervision in counties with populations under 400,000 or at designated critical access hospitals. The Department of Health Services (DHS) would be required to implement this change, ensuring that specific conditions are met, including the establishment of written protocols for radiation procedures, regular reviews of these protocols, and documentation of compliance. Additionally, it mandates that a radiation therapy technologist must follow these protocols and that an authorized user must be available for consultation at least once every five working days.
The bill also introduces new definitions and requirements for monitoring the performance of radiation therapy technologists and the quality of patient care. It specifies that procedures conducted under this new regulation cannot be classified as "special procedures," which are defined as those involving high doses of radiation delivered in fewer fractions. Overall, the bill aims to enhance access to radiation therapy in rural areas while maintaining safety and oversight standards.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 30-682
House Engrossed Version: 30-682
Chaptered Version: 30-682