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The Future of Nuclear Medicine Technology: Are We Ready for Advanced Practice?

Department of Nuclear Medicine Technology, College of Health Related Professions, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock; Nuclear Medicine Technology Program, Department of Allied Health Sciences, College of Science, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York; and Department of Health Science, Kinesiology, Recreation and Dance, College of Education and Health Professions, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas

Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify the clinical skills, commonly performed by nuclear medicine technologists (NMTs), that are beyond the entry-level practice guidelines and to determine NMTs' interest in the development of an advanced practice career pathway for nuclear medicine technology. Methods: The Society of Nuclear Medicine Technologist Section (SNMTS) conducted a survey of 1000 technologists certified by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) to determine which advanced clinical skills were being performed by NMTs and the level of training required to perform these skills. Results: Those who responded to the survey were older and tended to have more years of experience and a higher level of responsibility as compared to the average technologist. Sixty-two percent of the respondents thought the SNMTS should develop an advanced practice career pathway, and 85% thought that advanced practice education should be delivered in nontraditional formats such as nights, weekends, and by distance education. Conclusion: NMTs reported a high level of interest in an advanced practice career pathway that could be completed while they remained employed.

Key Words: clinical skills; advanced practice; practice guidelines; scope of practice