If 2010 had a theme for the radiology market it probably would be “safety.” And capping off the efforts by imaging manufacturers aimed at imaging safety was the introduction last week of the Consistency, Accuracy, Responsibility, and Excellence in Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (CARE) Act of 2010.
Introduced by Senators Mike Enzi (R-WY) and Tom Harkin (D-IA), the CARE Act sets standards to guarantee that medical personnel are appropriately trained.
The Act, which is supported by the Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA), reflects the efforts by private industry to make radiology safer. Among the manufacturer-sponsored initiatives are the Radiation Dose Reduction Plan, which includes support for mandatory reporting of medical errors associated with ionizing radiation, certification of imaging technologists, and accreditation of imaging facilities.
CT manufacturers, who have been particularly spotlighted because of several high-profile unintentional overdoses during the last few months, released the CT Dose Check Initiative, which is a commitment to include a new dose notification feature to reduce radiation levels; a dose alert to prevent medical errors; and a new dose recording feature to help track dose and to develop reference levels.
Finally, radiation therapy technology manufacturers launched the Radiation Therapy Readiness Check Initiative to develop and implement additional patient protection features for radiation therapy equipment. These features will confirm that patient treatment plans are delivered as intended, and that radiation therapy equipment, accessories, and patients are properly positioned prior to delivery of therapy.
(Source: Press Release)
