HealthFriday, November 13
New Mexico updates its radiation safety rules for X-rays and CT scans
The Today in Santa Fe team
If you've had an X-ray or CT scan, this one's for you. The New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board has approved updated radiation safety standards for hospitals, medical imaging facilities and industrial operations. The New Mexico Environment Department proposed the changes, which bring state rules in line with current federal requirements.
3,500professionals who operate medical radiation equipment statewide
The amendments update credentialing requirements for them.
Source: KUNM
The department announced the amendments Monday. It says the current state code cites an incorrect reference on exposure reports and radiation levels. The state's X-ray rulebook just got a checkup.
- Registrations covered: 1,500 current X-ray registrations, plus all future applicants
- Reviews of patient and staff radiation protection plans: modernized
- Industrial X-ray users: registration and reporting requirements clarified
“Whether you're getting an X-ray at your local hospital or working around radiation equipment, you should be confident that the proper safety standards are in place.”
The amendments touch medical, industrial and credentialing rules
| Area | What changes |
|---|---|
| Medical imaging | Protection plan reviews modernized |
| Credentialing | Updated for 3,500 operators |
| Industrial X-ray use | Registration and reporting clarified |
| State code | Incorrect reference corrected |
Sources: KUNM, Santa Fe New Mexican
Sources: Santa Fe New Mexican, KUNM