The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) has filed comments with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) opposing two proposed federal rules affecting radiation safety in medical imaging and radiation therapy.
The first proposed rule, Reforming and Modernizing the NRC's Radiation Protection Framework, would replace the longstanding ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) standard with a new graded approach to dose management. ASRT said removing ALARA from federal regulations without a suitable alternative would significantly and negatively affect the medical imaging and radiation therapy community. It urged the NRC to clearly distinguish between the nuclear power industry and healthcare in its rulemaking.
The second proposed rule, Reducing Barriers to Medical Use Licensing, aims to reduce regulatory burden in licensing and reporting requirements for radiation and radiopharmaceuticals in medical use. ASRT urged the NRC to maintain physician requirements for authorized users and ensure consistent implementation of radiation safety best practices.
If finalized, both rules are anticipated to take effect in early 2027.
