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Registered Radiologist Assistants’ (R.R.A.®) Complete Guide

Complete and Simplified Guide to Registered Radiologist Assistants’ (R.R.A.®) Certification

Complete and Simplified Guide to Registered Radiologist Assistants' (R.R.A.®) CertificationComplete and Simplified Guide to Registered Radiologist Assistants' (R.R.A.®) Certification

Table of Contents

Understanding the role of R.R.A.s®

What is a radiologist assistant?

A registered radiologist assistant (R.R.A.®) also known as a radiologist assistant (RA) is an advanced practice radiologic technologist who works under the supervision of a radiologist. The primary role of an RA is to enhance patient care by assisting the radiologist with patient assessment, management, and radiological procedures. They must be ARRT®-certified radiologic technologists who have completed an advanced academic program, including a radiologist-directed clinical preceptorship.

Difference between radiologic technologists and radiologist assistants

Radiologist assistants hold a mid-level position within the radiology department, possessing more skills and responsibilities than radiologic technologists. They perform a wider range of tasks, assist in complex procedures, and usually receive higher compensation.

Scope of practice

R.R.A.s® perform a range of tasks, from patient assessment and management to assisting with complex interventional procedures under fluoroscopy. Their specific duties vary based on hospital protocols and state regulations.

Educational pathways for R.R.A.s®

Prerequisites for becoming an R.R.A.®

Before pursuing a career as an R.R.A.®, candidates must be certified radiologic technologists with a bachelor’s degree in radiologic technologies, nuclear medicine, and allied studies (depending on each university’s requirements and prerequisites). Additionally, they must complete a master’s degree program in radiologist assistant studies.

Accredited programs and universities

Various accredited programs across the United States offer the necessary advanced education for R.R.A.s®. These programs typically last two years and include academic coursework and clinical training. Such universities provide comprehensive programs to prepare students for the R.R.A.® certification.

Certification process

Initial R.R.A.® certification requirements

To achieve R.R.A.® certification through the ARRT®, candidates must fulfill several requirements:

Examination details

The R.R.A.® certification exam tests candidates on their knowledge and skills in patient care, imaging procedures, and clinical practice. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and practical scenarios that reflect real-life situations.

Preparing for the R.R.A.® certification exam

Preparation for the R.R.A.® certification exam involves extensive study and practice. Candidates are encouraged to review the ARRT’s® exam content specifications, participate in study groups, utilize practice exams, and review materials from various educational resources. Refer to the ARRT® website for further details and up-to-date information: Examination Content Specifications.

Continuing education (CE) requirements

Biennial CE requirements for R.R.A.s®

The Radiologist Assistant must complete 50 Continuing Education (CE) credits every two years. CE requirements for RRA® professionals will begin the day after obtaining the RRA® certification and registration. The 50 CE credits required must comply with the following criteria:

  • At least 25 must be category A+ credits, while the remaining 25 can be a blend of category A or category A+
  • A minimum of 35 credits must pertain to disciplines or specialties relevant to the broader practice area of a radiologist assistant, rather than individual roles

Continuing qualifications requirements (CQR)

As healthcare technology evolves and patients demand increased accountability from providers, many credentialing agencies, including ARRT®, have created long-term requirements for maintaining credentials. Continuing Qualifications Requirements (CQR) are essential for all Registered Radiologist Assistants (R.R.A.s®) and Radiologic Technologists (R.T.s) who earned their credentials on or after January 1, 2011. CQR must be completed every 10 years and is designed to identify gaps in knowledge and skills, ensuring that professionals remain up-to-date with current entry-level qualifications. The process helps develop a personalized plan to refresh understanding and abilities, maintaining high standards in patient care and technological proficiency.

Visit the CQR Simulator Tool for an easy way to find courses that best fit your CQR requirements.

R.R.A.® certification and registration renewal

Renewal timeline and deadlines

R.R.A.s® must renew their certification every two years. The renewal process involves submitting proof of completed CE credits and paying the renewal fee. It’s essential to keep track of renewal deadlines to avoid lapses in certification.

Steps for renewal

  • Gather documentation of completed CE activities
  • Submit the renewal application through the ARRT’s® online portal
  • Pay the renewal fee
  • Await confirmation from the ARRT®

Easiest way to fulfill R.R.A.® requirements

Medical Professionals developed tailored offerings to meet your specific needs to fulfill your requirements for ARRT® certification and registration:

  • For R.R.A.s® looking to fulfill all of their 50 CE credits requirement, they may enroll in any of the recommended packages below
  • For R.R.A.s® looking to acquire only category A+ credits, they may choose from one of the following options:

Fees and documentation

Renewal fees vary, and detailed documentation of CE activities must be maintained for verification during the audit process. The application fee for a post-primary credential in R.R.A.® is generally $225.00. Review ARRT®’s official website to learn more about renewal fees.

Maintaining dual credentials

RPA® and R.R.A.® credentialing differences

While R.R.A.s® are certified by the ARRT®, RPA®s (Radiology Practitioner Assistants) are credentialed by the Certified Board of Radiology Practitioner Assistants (CBRPA®). Both roles perform similar duties, but their certification processes and oversight organizations differ. Visit the CBRPA®’s official website if you are interested in learning more about the CBRPA® certification process. CBRPA website

Merging certifications: history and current status

In 2010, the RPA® and R.R.A.® certifications were merged under the RA (Radiologist Assistant) designation to streamline state legislation processes. Despite the merger, individuals can still maintain dual certification. Compliance with these regulations is critical to ensure proper practice and patient safety.

Article highlights

  • Difference between a radiologic technologist and a radiologist assistant
  • Radiologic technologists primarily perform imaging procedures, while radiologist assistants have advanced skills and assist with more complex tasks under a radiologist’s supervision.
  • How to become a certified R.R.A.®?
  • You must be an ARRT®-certified radiologic technologist, complete an accredited R.R.A.® program, and pass the ARRT’s® certification exam.
  • Biennial CE requirements for R.R.A.s®
  • R.R.A.s® must complete 50 Continuing Education (CE) credits every two years. The 50 CE credits should include at least 25 category A+ credits, while the remaining 25 can be a blend of category A or category A+ and a minimum of 35 credits of R.R.A. ® relevant disciplines.
  • Maintaining dual certification as an RPA® and an R.R.A.®
  • Yes, although the certifications have merged, you can still maintain dual credentials through their respective certifying bodies.
  • Scope of practice for R.R.A.s®
  • R.R.A.s® perform patient assessments, assist in radiological procedures, and manage patient care under the guidance of a radiologist following the ARRT®, state, and hospital regulations.
  • R.R.A.® certification renewal
  • R.R.A.® certification must be renewed every two years, with proof of completed CE credits and payment of the renewal fee.

  • CQR for R.R.A.s®

  • CQR must be completed every 10 years to ensure that professionals stay current with evolving technology and standards in healthcare.

Conclusion

Maintaining certification and registration as a Registered Radiologist Assistant involves meeting educational requirements, passing certification exams, and completing biennial continuing education. By following the guidelines outlined in this reference guide, R.R.A.s® can ensure they stay compliant with ARRT® standards and continue to provide high-quality patient care. If you want to learn more about the application process, check out the ARRT®’s Registered Radiologist Assistant (R.R.A.®) Handbook.

This guide is designed to help you understand the ARRT® requirements for Registered Radiologist Assistants’ certification and registration, as well as the role and scope of practice of a Radiologist Assistant. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you are highly advised to visit the official ARRT® website and refer to it regularly for your continuing education requirements.