Hello,
You're right about the current contrast supervision laws. To address this, we rely on our APPs and nurses, both of whom are qualified to oversee contrast administration. Our nurses, who mostly focus on breast and lung navigation, also stay onsite for contrast supervision and managing any reactions. We schedule them on days when APPs or radiologists aren't available to ensure smooth coverage. By carefully planning our procedural and diagnostic schedules, we avoid overlapping resources and can balance the workload more effectively.
We've also trained our technologists in remote contrast administration, contrast reaction management, medication administration, and when to call 911. They check in with a remote radiologist at the start of each day to go over the patient schedule. If there's a reaction, they use a HIPAA-compliant team channel to reach out, and the call is recorded while the radiologist stays on the line for support. Plus, all our staff have current Basic Life Support certifications, and we offer Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support training for those interested.
Hope this helps!
Jessica Bordeaux
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Jessica Bordeaux
Executive Director of Operations
Raleigh Radiology
Raleigh NC
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Original Message:
Sent: 11-12-2024 09:40
From: Sheila Witous
Subject: Contrast coverage strategies
I would love to hear strategies groups have successfully employed for contrast coverage, given the limited radiologist resources. I am coming up with few options.
One of our hospital outpatient centers is about 3 miles from the main department. I am concerned the proximity to the hospital might be too far for immediate radiologist availability in the event of a contrast reaction if we were to use video supervision. I am also concerned that video supervision appears to be a short-term solution.
Some of my thoughts include limiting contrast days(they will balk), or video supervision and the hospital pays a stipend to a physician who works close to the outpatient department.
Am I correct that supervision is still the legal obligation of the technical component provider? I am not looking to play hardball but I want to have my facts straight.
Regards,
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Sheila Witous, MBA, CPA, CGMA
Chief Administrative Officer
Radiology, Inc.
South Bend IN
(574) 258-1100 ext. 205
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