Chicago, 30 November-5 December: RSNA 2008 saw American radiologists show their support for the development of advanced practice.
In 2006, with advice and support from the SoR, ASRT launched a new role
– the radiologist assistant (RA). An RA is an advanced-level radiologic
technologist who works under the supervision of a radiologist.
Delegates heard how the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), the US equivalent of the SoR, has since made "enormous progress" in advancing the roles of its members.
Speaking at the RSNA radiologist assistant (RA) symposium, Jordan Renner from the University of North Carolina, said: “What can the RA do? The sky is the limit – the RA can do pretty much anything they are adequately trained and educated for.”
Renner is head of musculoskeletal and emergency radiology and handles more than 25,000 cases a year. He explained the importance of radiologist support for the role and emphasised the need for training.
“The radiologist assistant is not a radiologist nor a physician assistant, but rather a valuable addition to the radiology team who can enhance quality patient care by performing advanced level radiological services under the supervision of a radiologist,” he concluded.
SoR director of professional policy Professor Audrey Paterson said she was delighted to see advanced practice progressing in the US but added: "I think a serious trick is being missed in the agreement between the American College of Radiology and the ASRT on the roles of RAs. Currently, RAs are precluded from reporting although I am hopeful this position will change in time."
Professor Paterson suggested UK experience indicates that to best serve the needs of patients and services, advanced practice radiographers need to include image reporting as part of their roles.
"We believe there has been a reduction in the number of missed fractures and abnormalities as the volume of radiographer reporting has increased; a typical example is a consultant radiographer led trauma imaging service in which the number of missed fractures has reduced from 7% to 1% - clear evidence of the success of the roles of reporting radiographers."
