The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) launched two online modules to help radiologic technologists meet Joint Commission requirements that go into effect on July 1.

The modules are Safe CT Practices, which explores safety factors in CT (including technical factor selection, positioning and shielding) and Safe MRI Practices, including safety principles, patient screening and emergency management.

Each module is presented as a detailed online presentation with full narration, and technologists who complete the course will be awarded a certificate of completion. The courses are not eligible for continued education credit.

The Joint Commission’s Diagnostic Imaging Services Requirements were first announced in January 2014 and scheduled to go into effect in July of that same year, but it was later decided that more research and revisions were needed. In January 2015, the requirements were declared final, effective July 1.  

According to the Joint Commission’s website, the requirements affect “accredited hospitals, critical access hospitals, and ambulatory health care organizations that provide diagnostic imaging services.”

Craig St. George, ASRT director of online education, told RadiologyBusiness.com that these modules were purposefully released far in advance.

“Radiologic technologists sometimes have to scramble to identify and locate educational materials when revised or new requirements are introduced,” St. George said in an email. “Understanding this, we released the products well in advance to ensure that managers and technologists can meet their educational needs.”

St. George also said the growth of online resources, at the ASRT’s website and elsewhere, is a sign of the changing times.

“Online education is still relatively new, so the market is developing,” he said. “More and more companies are using the online format for onboarding and other educational needs as it provides an option to standard paper, textbook and other delivery methods.”