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Radiology Tech, Surgical Technologist Licensure & Certification
Licensure is essential for Allied Health professionals pursuing travel assignments. Each profession has specific requirements to ensure compliance with state regulations and facility standards. This guide provides detailed licensure information for Radiology Technologists, Surgical Technologists, Radiation Therapists, Sterile Processing Technicians, and Endoscopy Technicians, including the subspecialties within Radiology.
Radiology Technologists and Subspecialties
Radiology professionals play a critical role in diagnostic imaging and therapeutic procedures. To practice, licensure requirements include state certification, national board credentials, and in some cases, subspecialty certifications.
Radiology professionals often require certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The AART certification credentials ensure competency in operating imaging equipment and adhering to safety standards. Each state may have additional licensure requirements.
Key Subspecialties:
- Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists: CT Scan jobs call for CT-specific certification through ARRT after meeting clinical requirements.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI Technologists): Certification through ARRT in MRI is widely required.
- Sonography (Ultrasound) Technologists: For a Sonography job certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is necessary, with specialties in areas such as OB/GYN and vascular imaging.
- Cardiac Sonography (Echo): Cardiac Sonography jobs require Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) credentials from ARDMS.
- Nuclear Medicine Technologists: Certification from the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or ARRT (N) is required.
- Mammography Technologists: Must complete a mammography-specific ARRT credential.
- Interventional Radiology (IR) Technologists: Typically require advanced ARRT certification and state licensure.
- Cath Lab Technologists: Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) certification from Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) is often required.
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) and Electrocardiogram (EKG) Technicians: Certification through the American Board of Registration of EEG and Evoked Potential Technologists (ABRET) is common for EEG; EKG requirements vary by state.
- X-Ray Tech - The AART offers a certification called the Registered Radiologic Technologist R.T. (R), which is a foundational requirement for practice in the area. Many states require licensing for Radiology Technologists. Your recruiter will know if any additional certifications or licensure is required in the facility or location where you wish to obtain an X-ray tech travel position.
- Polysomnographic Technologists (Sleep Studies): Must hold certification from the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT).
For all subspecialties, state licensing boards require documentation of education, certification, and in some cases, continuing education credits. Some states have compacts in development to streamline licensing for radiology professionals.
Surgical Technologists
Surgical Technologists are essential members of the operating room team, responsible for preparing equipment and ensuring sterile environments. Licensure and certification requirements for Surgical Technologists vary by state.
The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, awarded by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), is the standard for most employers. This requires completing an accredited program and passing a national exam. Some states require separate licensure or registration with their medical boards.
Additional training and certifications may be required for specific surgical settings, such as trauma or orthopedic surgery. Surgical Technologists must keep certifications current through continuing education credits.
Radiation Therapists
Radiation Therapists specialize in delivering therapeutic doses of radiation to treat cancer and other diseases. Licensure requirements often include certification through the ARRT in Radiation Therapy (T) and compliance with state-specific guidelines.
Radiation Therapists are required to demonstrate proficiency in safety protocols, equipment operation, and treatment planning. Many states mandate annual continuing education to maintain licensure.
Some states have compact agreements under development to simplify licensure for professionals practicing in multiple states.
Sterile Processing Technicians
Sterile Processing Technicians are responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and maintaining surgical instruments and equipment. Licensure for this role depends on state regulations and employer requirements.
Certification is often required, with the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) credential from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) being the most widely recognized. Some facilities may also accept the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) credential from the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).
While many states do not mandate licensure for Sterile Processing Technicians, individual healthcare facilities often set rigorous standards for certification and ongoing education.
Endoscopy Technicians
Endoscopy Technicians assist in procedures involving endoscopic equipment, supporting physicians in diagnosing and treating conditions within the digestive and respiratory systems. Licensure is not universally required but varies by state and facility.
Certification through the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (SGNA) or equivalent organizations is becoming increasingly common. Employers often require proof of completion of an accredited training program and evidence of competency in equipment handling and patient care.
Endoscopy Technicians should be prepared to meet facility-specific compliance standards, such as background checks, vaccinations, and continuing education.
State Variations in Licensing
Licensing requirements for Allied Health professionals can differ significantly across states. Some states mandate licensure for roles like Radiation Therapists and Radiology Technologists, while others rely on national certifications. Certain states require facility-specific credentialing, including drug testing and identity verification.
Professionals should research the specific requirements of the state where they plan to work, particularly when transitioning between assignments.
Compact Licensing and Future Initiatives
Compact agreements are emerging for Allied Health professionals, aiming to simplify multistate practice. While many compacts are still in development, they promise to reduce administrative burdens and provide greater flexibility for Radiology Technologists, Radiation Therapists, and other allied roles.
