The Impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic on the Clinical Environment

Abstract

The Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board performed an impact survey on the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic to better assess the current state of nuclear medicine practice within the United States, as well as the perceptions and experiences of technologists working during the pandemic. Methods: A web-based automation platform was used to create, collect, and analyze the survey data. Results: The survey revealed many department protocol variations during the pandemic, a decrease in patient volume, and several other concerns and issues. Experiences regarding staffing and wage changes were varied. Conclusion: This research showed significant inconsistencies in practice and stresses to nuclear medicine technology during the pandemic, as well as concerns for the workforce pipeline. NMTCB decided to delay the JTA process and conduct additional research regarding the workforce.