DHSS Press Release |
Date: November 1, 2007 DHSS-119-2007 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
Contact: Reporters Phone: 302-744-4907 |
DPH ANNOUNCES CHANGES TO CERTIFICATION PROCESSES
Delaware's Division of Public Health (DPH) announces changes to two separate certification exam processes, both effective Jan. 1, 2008. DPH will introduce a new, state-specific examination to certify professionals to practice medical radiation procedures in bone densitometry. At the same time, the fee for Delaware's existing medical radiation technician limited scope examination will increase $30.
Bone densitometry techniques are used widely for diagnosing osteoporosis in a variety of health care settings. Previously, applicants seeking certification as medical radiation technicians limited to bone densitometry were required to pass an examination that included subjects beyond those necessary for this field. Introduction of the new exam allows applicants to better focus their studies and better utilize what they learn in their chosen field.
Those interested in certification in bone densitometry must submit a completed application form and check in the amount of $110 for exam and application fees to DPH’s Office of Radiation Control. Applicants will receive a packet of information with instructions. This computerized exam will be offered in Newark and Dover, effective Jan. 1, 2008. Upon passing, individuals will receive a four-year state certificate from DPH's Office of Radiation Control.
In addition, the fee for Delaware's medical radiation technician limited scope examination will increase from $70 to $100, effective January 1, 2008. This professional certification exam has been offered in Delaware since 1995. The last fee increase occurred in 2000 when the exam was converted from a paper format to a computerized format. Passing this examination certifies health care professionals to operate radiation imaging equipment in practice areas including chest, head and sinuses, skull, extremities and podiatry.
Health care providers depend on radiation for a variety of uses to diagnose or treat disease. Nearly 700 state-registered radiation facilities are located in Delaware. Health-care professionals who are not licensed physicians, dentists or veterinarians must meet state certification requirements to administer radiation to patients, to assure safety for the patient, health-care facility staff, and the public.
For more information about these certification programs, or to obtain blank application forms, contact the Office of Radiation Control at 302-744-4546 or go to www.delaware.gov, and enter the word "radiation" into the search engine. Then click on the Office of Radiation Control link. New exam applications reflecting these announced changes will be available on this web page Jan. 1, 2008.
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
