Modifies age and education requirement to qualify as radiologic technologist.
Impact
The implications of Assembly Bill A735 are significant as it alters existing state laws that govern the accreditation and licensing of radiologic technologists. By lowering the age requirement and introducing alternative educational pathways, the bill aims to attract a larger pool of candidates into the workforce. This change could potentially help mitigate delays in patient care due to staffing shortages in hospitals and imaging centers, thereby enhancing healthcare service availability and accessibility in New Jersey.
Summary
Assembly Bill A735, introduced by Assemblyman Michael Torrissi Jr., seeks to amend the qualifying criteria to become a licensed radiologic technologist in New Jersey. The bill reduces the minimum age requirement from 18 to 16 years and allows individuals to qualify by either being enrolled in an approved secondary education program or completing an alternative education program leading to a high school diploma or equivalent. These modifications are intended to address the reported shortages within the radiologic technologist workforce by making the pathway to licensure more accessible to younger individuals.
Contention
While supporters of the bill argue it is a necessary update to help recruit new professionals into the field, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of training and experience for younger applicants who may be entering the workforce at an earlier age. Critics might question whether lowering the age limit could impact the quality of care provided by radiologic technologists, emphasizing the need for thorough training and assessment to ensure that patient care standards are maintained.
Further providing for definitions, for respiratory therapists, for perfusionist, for genetic counselor and for prosthetists, orthotists, pedorthists and orthotic fitters; providing for medical imaging professionals, radiation therapists, radiologist assistants and trainees; further providing for licenses and certificates and general qualification; repealing provisions relating to radiologic procedures and education and training required; and making a repeal.