Province Modernizes Medical Imaging Legislation

More medical imaging professionals in Nova Scotia will be regulated by a professional body with legislation introduced today, May 1, that will more clearly define accountability, and provide added protection for patients.

Technologists who perform magnetic resonance images (MRIs) and ultrasounds will be covered by the Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Professionals Act. Nova Scotia is the first jurisdiction in Canada to fully recognize and regulate diagnostic medical sonography as a distinct discipline.

"By adding MRI and diagnostic medical sonography professionals in the revised legislation, we are helping to ensure that Nova Scotians receive the best quality health care possible by our medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals," said Health and Wellness Minister David Wilson.

The new legislation will replace the Medical Radiation Technologists Act, the provincial legislation that guides and regulates medical imaging. It was last amended in 1990.

Once passed, the Nova Scotia College of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Professionals will be formed to replace the Nova Scotia Association of Medical Radiation Technologists. MRI technologists and medical diagnostic sonographers will fall under the new college's mandate.

"Self-regulation of these professions provides protection for the public, which translates into improved health care for Nova Scotians," said Karren Fader, president of the Nova Scotia Association of Medical Imaging Technologists.

The new act will cover more than 700 health care workers.