Wyoming Administrative Code Agency 017 - Radiologic Technologist Examiners, Board of
Wyoming Administrative Code (WAC) Agency 017
Board of Radiologic Technologist Examiners
Overview
The Board of Radiologic Technologist Examiners (Agency 017) is the state regulatory body responsible for licensing, regulating, and overseeing the practice of radiologic technologists in Wyoming. The Board ensures that individuals practicing in this field meet professional standards designed to protect public health and safety by controlling the use of radiation and related diagnostic technology.
The Board operates under statutes and administrative rules codified in the Wyoming Administrative Code. It regulates the education, licensing, continuing education, and professional conduct of radiologic technologists.
Key Functions of Agency 017
Licensing and Certification:
Establishes qualifications and standards for the issuance of licenses to radiologic technologists.
Requires applicants to have completed approved education and pass standardized examinations.
Licenses must be renewed periodically, often requiring proof of continuing education.
Scope of Practice:
Defines the legal scope and limitations of radiologic technology practice.
Regulates the use of radiologic equipment to ensure safe handling and application.
Continuing Education:
Requires licensees to complete continuing education credits to maintain licensure.
Sets standards for approved continuing education programs.
Disciplinary Authority:
Investigates complaints against licensees.
Has authority to impose disciplinary actions, including suspension or revocation of licenses for violations such as negligence, incompetence, or unethical conduct.
Can issue fines or require remedial education.
Rules and Regulations:
Promulgates detailed administrative rules regarding licensure requirements, examinations, renewal procedures, and disciplinary processes.
Ensures compliance with state radiation safety standards.
Hearings and Appeals:
Provides mechanisms for licensees to appeal disciplinary decisions or license denials through administrative hearings.
Decisions can be appealed to Wyoming courts under the Administrative Procedures Act.
Relevant Wyoming Statutes
The Board's authority comes from Wyoming statutes related to professional licensure and radiation safety, including statutes that define the scope of practice for radiologic technologists and provide the framework for licensing and discipline.
Important Wyoming Case Law and Legal Principles
While Wyoming-specific case law regarding the Radiologic Technologist Board is limited, general administrative law principles and relevant decisions provide important guidance.
1. Due Process in Licensing and Disciplinary Actions
Key Principle: Radiologic technologists, like other licensed professionals, are entitled to procedural due process when facing license suspension or revocation.
Typical Case: When the Board seeks to discipline a licensee, Wyoming courts require that the licensee receive:
Notice of the allegations
An opportunity for a hearing
The right to present evidence and cross-examine witnesses
This principle aligns with constitutional protections and ensures fairness in administrative proceedings.
2. Scope of Judicial Review
Wyoming courts generally defer to the Board’s expertise in technical matters related to radiologic technology.
Courts review administrative decisions based on the "substantial evidence" standard — meaning the Board’s findings must be supported by reasonable evidence in the record.
Courts will uphold Board actions unless they are arbitrary, capricious, or beyond statutory authority.
3. Case Example: License Suspension for Professional Misconduct
Hypothetical Summary: A licensed radiologic technologist was disciplined for failing to follow radiation safety protocols, resulting in patient harm.
The Board suspended the license after a hearing.
The technologist appealed, claiming inadequate evidence and due process violations.
The Wyoming appellate court upheld the Board’s decision, finding that the Board provided sufficient notice, conducted a fair hearing, and the decision was supported by substantial evidence.
4. Licensing Requirements and Examination Standards
The Board must ensure applicants meet educational and examination standards.
If an applicant is denied a license, they are entitled to administrative review.
Courts will typically support the Board’s judgment on applicant qualifications unless there is clear evidence of arbitrary denial.
Summary of Legal and Regulatory Framework
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing Authority | Board licenses radiologic technologists based on education, examination, and experience. |
| Continuing Education | Required for license renewal to maintain professional competence. |
| Disciplinary Process | Investigations and hearings ensure public safety; licensees have due process rights. |
| Scope of Practice | Clearly defined by Board rules to prevent unauthorized practices. |
| Judicial Review | Courts review for substantial evidence and procedural fairness. |
Why This Matters
The Board’s regulatory role protects patients and the public from unsafe radiologic practices by ensuring that only qualified and competent individuals perform diagnostic imaging and related procedures. It also protects practitioners by providing clear rules and fair processes.
Final Notes
If you want a breakdown of specific rules or licensing requirements from the Wyoming Administrative Code for this Board, or more detailed discussion of case law principles in Wyoming administrative law as applied to professional licensing boards, I’m happy to help!
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