The Joint Commission launched a new public service campaign for providers focused on the benefits and risks for medical imaging tests.
The campaign, called "Speak Up: X-rays, MRIs and other medical imaging tests" is designed for providers to suggest precautions for using imaging tests. "As providers, it is our responsibility to help patients fully understand what the benefits and risks are for every imaging procedure, so [patients] can make an informed personal decision on what is best for their health," said Executive Vice President and CMO for The Joint Commission Ana Pujols McKee, MD.
Here are five things to know about the campaign:
1. Providers can download and print infographics to display in their facilities or on social media addressing imaging test issues. The Joint Commission developed the infographic with the Alliance for Radiation Safety in Pediatric Imaging, American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America and Society for Pediatric Radiology.
2. The infographics include definitions for different types of imaging modalities and explain what healthcare conditions they are used for. It also provides patients with questions to ask when deciding whether to undergo an imaging test.
3. The program urges patients to take several steps, including:
• Ask questions and voice concerns
• Make sure treatments are appropriate
• Educate themselves about their illness
• Ask family or friends to become an advocate
• Participate in treatment decisions
4. The campaign also addresses risks associated with imaging, including over exposure to radiation, increased cumulative radiation exposure and misdiagnosis.
5. This isn't the first time the Joint Commission has addressed imaging issues. They also created newsletters on radiation risks and preventing accidents and injuries in the MRI suite.