Bill > AB511

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for radiologist assistants (RAs) in California, defining their professional role and scope of practice. The bill requires RAs to pass a national certification examination, maintain current registration with professional organizations like the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, and be certified in radiologic technology. RAs are explicitly defined as advanced-level radiographers who work exclusively under the direct supervision of a radiologist, functioning as part of a radiologist-led team. They are prohibited from independently diagnosing illnesses, interpreting images, prescribing medications, or functioning without a supervising radiologist. RAs can perform medical imaging procedures, complete patient histories, describe procedures, and communicate initial clinical observations, but only to their supervising radiologist. The bill allows supervising radiologists to delegate tasks to RAs based on their individual competence, while maintaining that RAs work in settings like hospitals, outpatient facilities, and diagnostic imaging centers. Importantly, violations of these provisions will not constitute a misdemeanor, which differs from previous regulations in the Radiologic Technology Act. The legislation aims to clearly define the professional boundaries and responsibilities of radiologist assistants while ensuring patient safety and proper medical oversight.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB511