LEGISLATIVE TALKING POINTS

• 7 out of 10 people will undergo an x-ray examination in the next year. Studies show that some patients may receive up to 100 times more radiation for the same x-ray examination because of an unqualified operator. An estimated 40% of all x-ray operators have no formal education in the field of x-ray technology. All radiation is cumulative in the body.
• South Dakota is one of 9 states in the U.S. that does not have any regulations for non physician operators regarding the use of ionizing radiation, x-rays, used to image, diagnose and treat human patients.
• Every resident in S.D. deserves quality healthcare by educated x-ray professionals to make an accurate medical diagnosis.
• A bill is going to be introduced in the S.D. legislative session this year (2006) which would require all non physician individuals working in the field of x-ray technology to be properly trained and educated. This bill would ensure a level of competency for all non physician individuals working with ionizing radiation. The passage of this bill would not impact the ability of physicians (all specialties), dentists, or veterinarians to take their own x-rays.
• Anyone who has been performing x-rays for the previous two years without any formal training and who can pass a competency examination will meet the qualifications of this legislative pursuit. This bill is not intended to eliminate anyone from the profession. Most on the job trained individuals who have done additional reading from RT literature should have little difficulty in passing the exam.
• The primary financial impact on medical practices is that their operators who have been practicing for two years will pay an examination fee and take time to sit for competency testing and an examination.
• YOUR VOTE IN FAVOR OF THIS LEGISLATION IS VERY MUCH APPRECIATED.