MO-A-218-01: CT Protocol Review - Practical Tips for Imaging Physicists.

In the 1980's and 90's, when every mammography department had a wet film processor and a sundial to keep the schedule, medical physicists performing mammography surveys were primarily focused on measuring machine performance and image quality. As our professional experience matured, medical physicists began to learn that they were uniquely qualified to help to recommend technique factors that would balance dose and image quality. Technique charts using different kVp, target-filter combinations and AEC modes gradually became common and patients benefitted from our input. With the revolutionary change in CT Scanner technology and utilization, medical physicists have begun to contribute their expertise to developing and improving CT protocols. This presentation will present practical challenges and offer some directions for the practicing medical physicist who desires to participate in this critical and emerging aspect of imaging physics practice: CT Protocol Review.

TU-C-217A-01: The Joint Commission Sentinel Event Alert 47 - Impact and Experience.

On August 24, 2011 The Joint Commission (TJC) issued Sentinel Event Alert #47: Radiation Risks of Diagnostic Imaging. This document goes far beyond traditional state compliance and is based on sound concepts issued by FDA in 2010. It explores numerous means by which facilities can avoid patient harm from imaging procedures. TJC and state inspectors have begun to ask facilities how they have addressed these concerns. This presentation will explore the Sentinel Event Alert #47 document, and summarize the results of Audits performed to assess progress and identify areas for improvement.

TU-E-213AB-01: JMPSLC Has Morphed into Medical Physics Licensure and Regulatory Recognition Subcommittee.

Based on direction from AAM Board of Directors, JMPLSC has redefined its scope and name. On November 4, 2011 the subcommittee renamed itself the Medical Physics Licensure and Regulatory Recognition Subcommittee. Its newly defined charge is to promote the protection of the public through the recognition of the profession of medical physics by legislation or regulation. The following pathways shall be implemented. 1. Recognition of the profession of medical physics through licensure by legislation: a. Support the formation and activities of state committee focused on professional licensure b. Provide model legislation c. Provide consultation on regulatory language to implement professional licensure 2. Recognition of the profession of medical physics through regulation. a. Support the formation and activities of state committee focused on the regulatory approach b. Provide model regulation c. Provide consultation on regulatory language to implement professional licensure d. Collaborate with the CRCPD Subcommittee 3. Annually prepare status of subcommittees' activities. This presentation will describe recent efforts of the subcommittee and report on its successes, challenges and works in progress.

The influence of hands-on laser training on usage of the CO2 laser.

A questionnaire was distributed to all participants in the Rochester General Hospital CO2 laser training workshops for surgeons (1982 to January 1985). The results of this study indicate that, while laser training is necessary prior to being able to use the laser, only a small fraction of trainees actually use the laser in their clinical practice. Surgeons who are using the laser do so in a minority of their cases. New incentives for laser usage must be investigated.