Blanchard Valley Health System has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in nuclear medicine as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR).
The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting specific requirements based on ACR Practice Parameters and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported back to the facility, providing a comprehensive report that can be used for continuous practice improvement.
Nuclear medicine is a branch of medical imaging that uses small amounts of radioactive materials, called radiopharmaceuticals, to diagnose and treat a variety of disease, including many types of cancers, heart disease, and certain other abnormalities within the body.
Jill Jaynes, director of imaging services, explained that it is possible to take images of different parts of the body with nuclear medicine, depending on the radiopharmaceutical used. These types of scans examine the function of the gallbladder, stomach, lungs, or heart. Many tests done in nuclear medicine also aid in the diagnosis and treatment of many types of cancer.
“Many safety protocols are followed to ensure that the radiopharmaceuticals are used and handled in a safe manner,” Jaynes said. “These cover aspects such as how the radiopharmaceutical is produced, how it is transported and stored, who can administer it, and how much can be administered to the patient.”
Jaynes stressed that the radiopharmaceuticals are not dangerous to the patient receiving them. Each patient gets a very small dose, and the medication only stays in the body long enough to complete the test.
“Our associates get a lot of questions, and are eager to educate patients,” Jaynes said. “Patients often ask how long they might be affected, and if it’s dangerous to be around others. We reassure them that the amount they are receiving is very small, and our associates are well trained. The word ‘radiation’ can feel scary, but this process is based on scientific research. We are here for you, and we will take good care of you and keep you safe.”
She added that technology continues to advance in nuclear medicine, just as in other areas of healthcare. This includes advancements that further enhance safety and reduce the radiation each patient or associate might encounter.
“Pursuing this accreditation means our associates have gone the extra step to demonstrate our commitment to quality and safety,” said Myron D. Lewis, president and chief executive officer of BVHS. “Accreditation is not mandatory – it’s something BVHS chooses to do, to examine our processes and make sure we are doing our very best.”
“Our team has put a lot of work and time into this,” Jaynes said. “I’m really proud of them, not only for the work they do every day, but for going the extra mile to document and examine that work for accreditation. Safety is always their priority, and they are always working to make sure they aren’t missing any details.”