The American College of Radiology (ACR) released an updated statement on February 26th, 2024 on the supervision requirements for contrast media.
This statement is meant to provide flexibility for imaging centers. The ACR states that there must be a person on site that is qualified to manage contrast reactions. The qualified individual must:
- Have received training and meet institutional periodic competency guidelines at evaluating patients and diagnosing and differentiating different types of adverse reactions to contrast material.
- Be able to recognize when medical intervention is required for a hypersensitivity immediate reaction or physiology adverse event due to contrast administration.
- Be trained and legally permitted to administer prescription medications (e.g. antihistamine, intravenous fluid, beta agonist inhalers, epinephrine) and other appropriate interventions independently or under a standing orders/algorithmic approach under state law or regulations, and under local, institutional, site, and facility policies, guidelines and rules. These interventions are those indicated for urgent response to a contrast material adverse event as listed in the ACR Manual of Contrast Media or similar local policies or guidelines.
- When qualified to act under general supervision of a physician, be able to consult with the supervising physician within an appropriate timeframe.
- Has minimum BLS certification.
- Understand when to call for assistance and how to activate emergency response systems.
What does this mean for virtual supervision?
The ACR continues to define and clarify what it means to provide compliant virtual supervision. The current statement outlines what qualifications an on-site individual must possess to remain compliant with virtual supervision. As such, and given the training provided by ContrastConnect to technologists, on-site technologists will remain compliant with the six qualifications defined by the ACR.
Just prior to releasing this statement, the ACR urged CMS to make virtual supervision permanent. The ACR continues to show its advocacy and commitment to guiding imaging centers on how to provide safe and compliant virtual supervision.
