As interest in PET/CT and SPECT/CT continues to grow, a significant obstacle for many cardiac imaging labs, particularly those in private practice settings, has been state licensing laws and regulations that preclude nuclear medicine technologists from performing the CT portions of those hybrid nuclear studies.

These laws and regulations vary by state but in many cases require training and certification in CT that would be difficult to complete while employed full time.

In order to help resolve this issue, the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC) has introduced an initiative aimed at supporting nuclear medicine technologists seeking to overcome the regulatory barriers that restrict technologists from performing CT scans.
The solution emerged through collaboration with Chattanooga State Community College, which has launched a streamlined certificate program designed to provide working imaging technologists with the necessary education and qualifications.

The program consists of three online and asynchronous classes totaling 16 credit hours, enabling technologists to complete coursework around their work schedules. It entails a clinical practicum of at least 180 hours, with support in finding appropriate clinical sites and completing competency assessments.

The certificate can be completed in two semesters and fulfills requirements for the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exams. It also offers liability insurance and student status necessary for these certifications.

"The Chattanooga State Community College program represents a dual opportunity," said MedAxiom Care Transformation Services vice president, Jaime Warren. "It is both a valuable career development path for nuclear medicine technologists and a means to significantly enhance the quality of patient care through advanced cardiac PET/CT or SPECT/CT."

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