CQ+2011

**What is CQ/2011:** With technology continually changing, the ARRT proposed a time-limited recertification plan for future technologists known as continued qualifications (CQ)/2011. In June 2007, the ARRT announced four years in advance the plan to begin time-limited certifications (“ARRT Announces”, 2007). This need for change was discovered when the approach coined “once certified, forever qualified” discussed that knowledge has a “limited shelf life” and is now obsolete (“CQ 2011,” 2011). In April 2009, the ARRT announced the details of CQ requirements (“ARRT Announces,” 2007). Section 2.05 of ARRT’s Rules and Regulations states: All new certifications awarded on or after January 1, 2011 will expire ten years from the date of issue. Completion of requirements to assure continued qualifications (which may beamended from time to time) must be documented prior to the end of the ten-year period to continue certification for an additional ten-year period. All requirements for annual renewal ofregistration will remain in effect during the 10-year period as will all reinstatement requirements. Certifications awarded prior to January 1, 2011 and for which registration is continuouslymaintained are not subject to the requirements of Section 2.05. If a certification awarded prior to January 1, 2011 is revoked for any reason, and that individual ever regains certification, thenew certification will expire 10 years from the date of issue. (2010) With the changing pace of technology, the ARRT realized that time-limited certifications are needed to keep technologists’ education and knowledge current. The CQ/2011 exists because the ARRT’s mission is to be able to promote high standards of patient care (“CQ 2011,” 2011). This goal of higher standards of patient care can only be proven if it is known that the certified individual is demonstrating their continued qualifications.

The ARRT has recognized that patients want to be reassured the best quality care and believe that their solution of CQ/2011 will meet consumers’ needs. Newly certified technologists from here on out will be required to demonstrate their education and knowledge through a three-step component which includes: An assessment component tailored to an individual’s particular practice pattern, an activities component specific to their areas of need, and a verification component that assures that the areas of need have been addressed (“ARRT Announces,” 2007). This method combined with the current biennial continuing education program introduced in 1995, will ensure that the individual is able to provide the best patient care possible.

The ARRT believes that one day all medical professions will have to move to some type of recertification process. “Consumer and regulatory activism are leading to more accountability for all professions, and the continuous quality improvement movement has set the tone in healthcare (“CQ 2011,” 2011). The ARRT wants their profession to be prepared should this ever become a requirement.

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