MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Kristen Waterstram-Rich

“When one door closes another door opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us.” —Alexander Graham Bell

With changes happening throughout diagnostic imaging and health care in general, we in nuclear medicine must be prepared to see the changes as new opportunities. And we must be innovative so that we can design the outcome of the changes to our advantage. As Roger Crawford once said, “We are a product of the choices we make, not the circumstances that we face.”

This has been a year of changes and attempted changes. Some changes have occurred more slowly than others, for a variety of reasons: fear, reluctance, and the time it takes to understand whatever issue is at hand, just to name a few. To achieve a desirable, effective, long lasting and meaningful result, it is imperative that these types of obstacles—none of which is insurmountable—be understood and addressed. Some of the changes on which the technologist section has worked throughout the year are reviewed below.

Relationship with ERF.

We are playing an active role in changes associated with the Society of Nuclear Medicine Education and Research Foundation (ERF). In addition, we are participating in a review of the handling of the Paul Cole Scholarship.

Relationship with SNM.

We have been involved in numerous debates with SNM regarding the structure and the financial arrangements for each component of the organization.

Alliance.

We have continued to be active in promoting a federal mandate for licensure for diagnostic imaging technologists and radiation therapists. In March 2001, the bill mandating this requirement was again introduced in the House. With continued efforts on everyone’s part, this bill may be passed within the foreseeable future.

Summit on Radiologic Sciences.

We have played a role in looking at workforce recruitment and retention issues. This effort endeavors to increase the number of technologists in the workforce and to address the need for changes in the workplace that will improve retention.

Health Professions Network.

We have continued to work on addressing the public’s awareness of allied health professions. We have formed a committee of the individuals who have attended the Coalition on Allied Health Leadership. This committee will work to promote ideas within the SNM-TS pertaining to the advancement of allied health and the relationship of nuclear medicine professionals within the allied health workforce.

Global Recognition.

We continue to foster greater recognition as more technologists attend various meetings outside the U.S. Attendance at these meetings is often, if not always, at the technologist’s expense; however, it has provided the foundation of the working relationships we see today. As relationships develop, changes in clinical practice and education are inspired.

Expanded Role of NMTs.

The development of the physician extender role is being more carefully explored and defined.

Strategic Plan for Education.

At a gateway meeting in March 2001, the educational needs and delivery of educational opportunities were discussed. In addition, a task force was established to draft an opinion statement pertaining to entry-level and advanced practice requirements for NMTs.

Upon reviewing this partial list of initiatives for change, it should be clear to all that the SNM-TS does not and cannot work in isolation. Just as in our day-to-day routine, we must work as a team to affect larger changes in our profession. Although there will be those that react and respond to our changes in ways that slow our progress, having to conquer such obstacles may also lead to a more lasting success. However frustrating it may seem, we must continue to persevere.

On a personal note, I would like to thank each of you for giving me the opportunity to serve as your president. You entrusted me to speak and act on your behalf and it was a trust I did not take lightly. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all of you who served as my advisors and sages throughout the year. A special thanks goes to Virginia Pappas, who gave me her never-ending support, guidance and encouragement. It has been a most remarkable year in many ways and I leave with many treasured memories.

Most of all, I send my best wishes to Mickey Clarke for a successful year as incoming president. The year goes by so quickly, Mickey—make the most of it!