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GOVERNOR RECOGNIZES RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGISTS
What is odorless, colorless, can't
been seen, touched, heard or tasted? Just ask a radiologic
technologist.
Protecting the public from invisible and
potentially harmful radiation through precise diagnostic
practices and improved patient care is a daily responsibility
of the more than 19,000 licensed radiologic technologists
in New Jersey, according to State Environmental Protection
Commissioner Bob Shinn.
"The proper use of x-ray equipment
and other radiologic technologies can save lives, but can
also cause harm if standardized procedures are not followed,
" said Shinn, whose department, in conjunction with
the state Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners, administers
the licensing program for radiologic technologists.
To recognize their contributions to patient
care, acting Governor Donald T. DiFrancesco has proclaimed
November 4 to 10 as Radiologic Technology Week in New Jersey.
"Licensed radiologic technologists
contribute greatly to the diagnosis and treatment of disease
through their expertise and understanding of the safe operation
of highly sophisticated equipment," proclaimed Governor
DiFrancesco.
New Jersey was one of the first states
to require licensing of these technologists under legislation
passed in 1968, well before the enactment of the federal
Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981.
X-rays were discovered in 1895. Today,
there are 255,000 radiologic technologists in the United
States, comprising the nation's largest allied health profession,
including those who perform x-rays and radiation therapy
as well as nuclear medicine procedures.
To learn more about licensing requirements
and accredited programs, contact the state Department of
Environmental Protection's Bureau of Radiological Health
at 609-984-5634.
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