American Registry of Radiologic Technologists

American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
Name	American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
Founded	0 1922
Location	St. Paul, Minnesota, United States
Focus	Medical imaging and radiation therapy credentialing
Website	arrt.org

American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists is the primary credentialing organization for professionals in medical imaging and radiation therapy in the United States. Established in the early 20th century, it sets national standards for certification and registration, requiring candidates to pass rigorous examinations and adhere to strict ethical guidelines. Its credentials are recognized by federal agencies like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and are often mandated by state licensure laws, making it integral to the practice of radiography, magnetic resonance imaging, and nuclear medicine technology.

History

The organization was founded in 1922 following a pivotal meeting of the Radiological Society of North America in Chicago, where leaders recognized the need for standardized training amid the rapid growth of X-ray technology. Early efforts were championed by prominent radiologists like Hollis E. Potter and technologist Ed C. Jerman, a founding member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. Initially focused on radiographers, its scope expanded significantly after World War II, incorporating new modalities like radiation therapy and computed tomography. Key milestones include the development of the first national examination in 1923 and the move of its headquarters to St. Paul, Minnesota, in the 1970s, solidifying its role as a central accrediting body alongside the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.

Certification and registration

Certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate competency through education, examination, and ethical conduct, while registration denotes ongoing compliance with continuing education requirements. Primary pathways include primary certification in disciplines like radiologic technology, magnetic resonance imaging, and radiation therapy, as well as post-primary credentials in advanced areas such as computed tomography and mammography. Candidates must typically graduate from an educational program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology or similar bodies and adhere to the ARRT Standards of Ethics. This process is distinct from state licensure, though many states, through legislation like the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act, use these credentials as a basis for legal practice.

Examinations

Examinations are comprehensive, computer-based tests developed using rigorous psychometric standards and administered through partnerships with organizations like Pearson VUE. The content for each discipline, such as the Sonography Principles & Instrumentation exam, is determined through regular practice analysis surveys involving thousands of professionals. These exams assess knowledge across major domains, including patient care, safety procedures aligned with NRC regulations, image production, and procedures. The passing standard is set using the Angoff method, and results are a significant factor in eligibility for credentials recognized by the Food and Drug Administration for operating certain equipment.

Continuing education requirements

To maintain registration, technologists must complete 24 continuing education credits every two years, as outlined in the ARRT Continuing Education Requirements. Approved activities include courses offered by accredited providers like the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, publication in journals such as the Radiologic Technology Journal, or structured continuing qualifications assessments. These requirements ensure professionals stay current with advancements in technology, such as digital radiography and image-guided radiation therapy, and changes in federal guidelines from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Compliance is verified through random audits, and failure to meet standards can result in the revocation of registration.

Governance and organization

The organization is governed by a Board of Trustees composed of elected radiologic technologists, a physician representative, and a public member, ensuring diverse oversight of its operations. Day-to-day functions are managed by an executive director and professional staff at its headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota. Key committees, such as the Ethics Committee and the Examination Committee, develop policies on standards and test construction. It collaborates closely with other major bodies, including the American College of Radiology, the American Healthcare Radiology Administrators, and state licensing boards, to influence national policy and educational standards.

Impact and recognition

Its credentials are widely recognized as the national standard for quality and safety in medical imaging, influencing hiring practices across institutions like the Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic. Federal recognition by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services allows only credentialed technologists to perform certain reimbursable procedures, while the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act encouraged states to adopt its standards for licensure. The organization's advocacy, often in partnership with the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, has been instrumental in promoting patient safety legislation and advancing the profession globally through agreements with bodies like the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists.

Category:Medical and health organizations based in Minnesota Category:Radiology organizations Category:Professional associations based in the United States