Medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals need more education in CT operation, application and dose to ensure patient safety, according to a panel of experts jointly sponsored by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

The panel, which consisted of 32 experts in health policy, CT manufacturing, clinical practice and education, met in August 2007 and April 2008 to examine how the issues and challenges facing the evolution of CT will affect the future of radiologic science education and practice.

Following examination of the poll results and discussions about the utilization, role and practice of CT, the panel developed nine consensus statements that focused on: patient safety, regulations, reimbursement; education and practice; CT in diagnostic radiology; CT in radiation therapy; and CT in nuclear medicine.

Additional panel representatives were from the Society of Nuclear Medicine (SNM), the American College of Radiology (ACR), the Association of Educators in Imaging and Radiologic Sciences (AEIRS) and the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT).

The panel’s consensus is available on the ASRT website and on the ARRT website.