HHS proposes to allow digital X-rays for Coal Workers’ Surveillance Program
Current regulations for NIOSH's Coal Workers' Health Surveillance Program permit only the use of film-based radiography systems. The Department of Health and Human Services recently published a notice of proposed rulemaking (.pdf file) to modify X-ray requirements for coal miners. HHS is proposing amendments that would allow use of digital X-rays.
The newest addition to the IHC staff is Anna Hamilton of Birmingham Alabama. Anna graduated from Jefferson State Community College in 2009 as a Radiologic Technologist. She is trained in anatomy, medical terminology and pathology, radiation physics, imaging principles, examination techniques, radiation protection and accurate diagnostic imaging. She was registered with ARRT in July of 2009 and has worked in clinical settings since 2007. Anna is also First Aid and CPR certified at the health care provider level. Anna decided to become a Radiologic Technologist because she wanted to “do something useful that makes an impact.” She believes that as a Radiologic Technologist, the work she performs must be held to the highest of standards. With this attitude Anna fits perfectly into IHC. Anna is dedicated to the best possible radiograph image standards and to making sure that patients are not unnecessarily exposed to radiation. IHC is pleased to welcome Anna Hamilton to our team of dedicated professionals.
| The Industrial Health Council has just taken delivery on a mobile x-ray truck that employs the most up-to-date digital image capturing, display and storing equipment available. Housed in a module designed to be comfortable for both techs and clients, but space efficient as well, the new unit sits on a 2009 Kenworth T270 chassis that is equipped with air ride suspension that softens the ride and reduces the likelihood of equipment damage. As in with our other units this one is set up to do more than just x-rays. We will be able to provide EKGs, PFTs or other tests while x-rays are being performed. While the truck and module are impressive the most important aspect is the capabilities of the digital equipment. This equipment will allow us to process x-rays in less than half the time of the analog units and without liquid chemicals and the bulky processor. Once processed, the images can be transferred electronically to our physician for interpretation and reporting, greatly reducing the turnaround time for reports. This capability will also reduce the time needed to send copies of x-rays to an individual's personal physician. We will be able to start using this unit immediately for our clients who don't require a "B Reader" interpretation and report. We are expecting the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) approval of standards for digital images for "B Readers" within the next few months and will then be able to use this unit for all types of x-rays. At that point at least one of our other units will be converted to digital equipment. We invite you to take a look at a few pictures of the truck we have attached. If you have any questions please give us a call at 205-326-4109 or send an email to rmorrow@i-h-c.org   |
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IHC TO OPEN WESTERN OFFICE TO BETTER SERVE
CLIENTS IN THE WESTERN STATES