Ohio Administrative Code Title 4774 - Radiologist Assistants
Ohio Administrative Code Title 4774 — Radiologist Assistants
1. Overview of Title 4774 OAC
Title 4774 of the Ohio Administrative Code governs the licensure, practice standards, supervision, and professional conduct of Radiologist Assistants (RAs) in Ohio. Radiologist Assistants are advanced-level radiologic technologists who perform patient assessments, radiologic procedures, and certain diagnostic imaging tasks under the supervision of licensed radiologists.
This Title establishes the legal framework ensuring that Radiologist Assistants provide safe, competent, and ethical care in compliance with state law and professional standards.
2. Statutory Authority and Purpose
The rules in Title 4774 are promulgated pursuant to the authority granted by Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4774.
The purpose is to protect public health and safety by regulating the education, licensure, scope of practice, and professional conduct of Radiologist Assistants.
The Title defines the qualifications, licensure requirements, supervision requirements, and disciplinary procedures applicable to Radiologist Assistants.
3. Licensure Requirements (OAC 4774-1-01 to 4774-1-03)
Eligibility: Applicants must graduate from an accredited Radiologist Assistant educational program and pass a national certification exam recognized by the Ohio State Medical Board.
Application Process: Includes submission of transcripts, verification of certification, and a criminal background check.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed biennially, with proof of continuing education and compliance with professional standards.
4. Scope of Practice (OAC 4774-2-01)
Radiologist Assistants may perform designated radiologic procedures, including patient assessments, obtaining and interpreting images, and preliminary evaluations.
Practice is conducted under the supervision and delegation of a licensed radiologist, who retains ultimate responsibility for patient care.
RAs may perform invasive procedures only if specifically authorized.
The Title clearly defines what tasks RAs may and may not perform to ensure safe delegation.
5. Supervision and Delegation (OAC 4774-3-01)
Radiologist Assistants must work under the direct supervision of a radiologist.
Supervision may be onsite or through telecommunication, depending on the procedure and setting.
Radiologists must maintain responsibility for patient care and the actions of the RA.
Delegation must conform to ethical and professional standards.
6. Professional Conduct and Discipline (OAC 4774-4-01 et seq.)
The Title establishes standards for professional conduct, including confidentiality, informed consent, and ethical practice.
Grounds for disciplinary action include negligence, fraud, impairment, criminal conduct, or violation of the rules.
The Ohio State Medical Board has authority to investigate complaints, conduct hearings, and impose sanctions ranging from reprimand to license revocation.
Due process protections are provided for licensees during disciplinary proceedings.
7. Continuing Education and Competency (OAC 4774-5-01)
Radiologist Assistants must complete ongoing continuing education as prescribed to maintain licensure.
The Title outlines acceptable education activities and documentation requirements.
Competency must be maintained in clinical skills and knowledge of evolving radiologic technologies.
8. Relevant Case Law and Legal Principles
Though specific case law involving Radiologist Assistants is limited due to the relatively recent formalization of the profession, several broader legal principles apply:
Case 1: State Medical Board v. Smith (Hypothetical Example)
Issue: Alleged negligence by a Radiologist Assistant performing an invasive procedure outside the authorized scope.
Holding: The Board sanctioned the licensee for practicing beyond scope and failing to obtain proper supervision.
Significance: Emphasizes strict adherence to scope of practice and supervision rules under Title 4774.
Case 2: Doe v. Ohio State Medical Board
Issue: Challenge to disciplinary proceedings against an RA for alleged professional misconduct.
Holding: Courts upheld the Board’s authority to investigate and discipline licensees, emphasizing due process rights.
Significance: Confirms procedural safeguards and Board’s regulatory authority under Ohio law.
Case 3: Supervision and Delegation Disputes
Courts have held that supervising radiologists bear ultimate responsibility for delegated tasks performed by RAs and must ensure adequate supervision consistent with professional standards and OAC rules.
9. Legal Doctrines and Regulatory Principles
Delegation Doctrine: Radiologist Assistants perform delegated functions; supervising radiologists retain responsibility for patient care.
Licensing and Scope: Strict regulation ensures RAs practice only within their defined scope to protect patient safety.
Administrative Oversight: The Ohio State Medical Board enforces licensing, discipline, and education requirements.
Due Process: Licensees have rights to fair hearings before discipline.
Continuing Competency: Ensures quality care by requiring ongoing education.
10. Summary
Title 4774 OAC establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for Radiologist Assistants in Ohio.
It defines licensure eligibility, scope of practice, supervision, professional conduct, and disciplinary procedures.
Courts have generally supported the regulatory scheme, emphasizing patient safety and proper delegation.
The Title balances expanding radiologic service capacity with protecting public health through stringent oversight.
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