Radiologic technologists: venipuncture: supervision.

Existing law provides for the certification and regulation of radiologic technologists by the State Department of Public Health. Existing law authorizes the department to adopt regulations to implement those provisions, as specified. Under existing law, notwithstanding any other law, a radiologic technologist certified under the Radiologic Technology Act is authorized to perform venipuncture in an upper extremity to administer contrast materials, manually or by utilizing a mechanical injector, under the direct supervision of a licensed physician, and if other specified conditions are met. Existing law defines "direct supervision" as the direction of an authorized procedure by a licensed physician and surgeon who shall be physically present within the facility and available within the facility where the procedures are performed, as specified. A violation of these provisions is a misdemeanor. This bill would authorize a radiologic technologist with the above qualifications to perform venipuncture according to the prescribed conditions when under the general supervision of a physician and surgeon. The bill would define "general supervision" to mean under the direction of a licensed physician and surgeon who is either physically present within the facility and available within the facility where the procedures are performed, or is available by telephone. By changing the definition of a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.