This is to advise you that the Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Commission on Radiation Protection (Commission) has adopted a new N.J.A.C. 7:28-24 entitled "Nuclear Medical Technology." The new rule was published in the April 17, 2000 issue of the New Jersey Register (NJR). This new rule went into effect on April 17, 2000.

The new rule was proposed in the October 18, 1999 NJR for public comment. The DEP and Commission decided to adopt this new rule because it substantially revises and updates the regulatory standards that apply to nuclear medicine technology. These updated standards will help to ensure that the public will be provided maximum protection from unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation during nuclear medicine procedures. The following summarizes the most significant changes in the new rule:

• Enhanced and detailed scope of practice on nuclear medicine technology and definitions that parallel New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners’ regulations. (N.J.A.C. 7:28-24.2)
• Requires all radiopharmaceuticals administered during nuclear medicine procedures to be recorded. (N.J.A.C. 7:28-24.3)
• The nuclear medicine technology license period is now for two years. All licenses will expire on December 31, of an even numbered year. The license renewal fee is $40.00. (N.J.A.C. 7:28-24.7)
• Establishes prohibitions to discourage individuals from falsifying statements, records, applications or licenses or engaging in unacceptable nuclear medicine technology practices. (N.J.A.C. 7:28-24.9)
• Enhanced approval standards for schools of nuclear medicine technology that reflect the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology’s accreditation standards. (N.J.A.C. 7:28-24.10 and 11)

For an unofficial copy of this new rule, you may browse the html version (38 second average load time with a 28,800 modem,) or download a version in either PDF and/or MSWord formats.  An official copy can be obtained by calling the BRH at 609-984-5890.