A recent push to reclassify radiologic technologists as professionals under the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) Standard Occupational Classification has garnered significant support, with over 42,000 comments submitted via the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) Advocacy Action Center.
The ASRT is advocating for this change, emphasizing that the role of radiologic technologists meets the OMB’s definition of professional status, which involves advanced knowledge and the exercise of discretion and judgment.
Heather Moore, president of ASRT, highlighted the critical role radiologic technologists play in healthcare, citing their responsibility in creating medical images that require both technical skill and critical thinking. “We receive orders from physicians every day that require us to use our advanced knowledge of radiation protection, radiation physics, equipment protocols, and much more,” Moore stated.
The reclassification is seen as essential for enhancing professional recognition and ensuring a more universally recognized credential for radiologic technologists. This effort comes during a crucial period, as the OMB only revises the SOC every 10 years.
The OMB will now review the submitted comments to determine whether radiologic technologists meet the criteria for professional status. If approved, the reclassification would take effect in 2028.
The Albuquerque-based ASRT represents 157,000 members in the medical imaging and radiation therapy fields.
