The clinical breast exam: opportunities for R.T.s

Breast self-examination, clinical breast examination (CBE) and mammography are important methods for the early detection of breast cancer. In this study, a nationally representative data set, the 1998 National Health Interview Survey, was used to examine the influence of CBE as a predictor of mammography utilization. The data revealed differences in the sociodemographic and health characteristics of women who had a CBE in the previous year compared with women who did not. Furthermore, a CBE in the previous year as well as other factors related to a woman's health care provider were predictors of mammography use. Opportunities for radiologic technologists to improve breast cancer detection are discussed, including the potential expansion of the scope of practice for mammography technologists.     

Deterrents to R.T. continuing education.

Constant changes in medicine and technology make continuing education (CE) vitally important for radiologic technologists. Understanding what deters radiographers from participating in CE may help improve CE programs. This article reports on a survey of deterrents to CE participation among radiographers. Results revealed that cost was the leading deterrent, followed closely by work constraints. In addition, certificate-level radiographers found lack of quality to be a significantly higher deterrent than did radiographers with an associate degree.     

Climbing the ladder: evolution of a clinical advancement program

Clinical advancement programs have been popular in nursing for years and have only recently permeated allied health disciplines, including radiography. In this article, the author explores the evolution of a clinical advancement program at his institution, involving radiographers of all disciplines and sonographers. The evolution of the program at Riverside Methodist Hospitals over the last three-and-a-half years is explored as a follow-up to the article "Approaching Clinical Advancement in Radiology," published in Radiology Management 13.4, fall 1991.     

From concept to CPT code to compensation: how the payment system works

All radiologists and radiation oncologists provide medical services to patients every day with the full anticipation that these services will be appropriately reimbursed. Yet most take this process for granted. Few have even a rudimentary idea how the system works by which a coding mechanism and reimbursement schedule are developed and maintained for the vast array of services they provide. Clearly, this is not good business. You need not stay in the dark any longer! This article describes (1) the fundamental structure of reimbursement for radiology and radiation oncology services; (2) the multiple steps required as a new procedure advances from a research concept to the assignment of a code in the American Medical Association’s Current Procedural Terminology; (3) the process by which the new procedure and code are assigned a reimbursement value in the Medicare Fee Schedule, which acts as the base for over 75% of current medical reimbursement; and (4) the maintenance of this system for existing procedures.     

Gerontology in the R.T. curriculum

This study was conducted to determine the extent to which students in U.S. radiologic technology educational programs are being prepared to provide diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for geriatric patients. A total of 442 programs in radiography, nuclear medicine technology, radiation therapy and diagnostic medical sonography were surveyed. Results indicate that most gerontology instruction is limited to modules or units within defined courses, rather than comprehensive gerontology courses related to professional practice. Respondents indicated a perceived need for additional gerontology content in the curricula.     

250,000 R.T.s

The ranks of R.T.s continue to grow and the demographics continue to evolve. The Registry is proud to say, "ARRT, a quarter of a million registered technologists, strong and growing!"     

Doctorally prepared R.T.s: a professional profile

Registered radiologic technologists holding doctoral degrees were surveyed to establish demographic and professional profiles. In addition, the scholarly production of this unique group was quantified by self-reports. A majority of respondents (67%) were not employed in the radiologic sciences and most had not authored journal articles, books or submitted grant proposals. Doctorally prepared technologists reported several professional and personal benefits in earning the degree, including self-fulfillment, respect and advanced occupational opportunities.     

HIPAA: A golden opportunity for R.T.s

As stated earlier, radiologic science professionals have long been engaged in the struggle for professional recognition. We must understand that this recognition will not simply be handed to us; we must actively pursue projects and activities that are recognized as professionally significant. Only through active participation will we accomplish our goal. HIPPA compliance is mandatory, and covered entities must comply by April 14, 2003. Radiologic technologists can enhance their professional status by taking the initiative to be leaders in this federally mandated compliance effort. Marie Curie once said, "Life is not easy for any of us. We must believe we are truly gifted and that this thing must be attained." Enhanced professional status can be attained only if we collectively pledge ourselves to attained it. Gaining enhanced professional status will not be an easy task. We must be willing to believe in our profession and ourselves. We must actively engage ourselves in high-profile, professionally significant activities if we are to achieve the stature we desire.