AP Framework Revision
The CAMRT will be undergoing an update to the Advanced Practice (AP) Framework in 2023. Since the inception of AP duties within medical radiation technologist (MRT) positions, with a focus in radiation therapy originally, there has been great growth and depth of understanding for such roles. The expansion and enhancement of these roles signifies the consistent value Canada places on AP in medical radiation sciences. This concept was heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic as our healthcare system entered a new phase of reviewing the duties and scopes of practice for many healthcare professions in order to meet the needs of patients.
CAMRT is leading the review and demonstration of AP in MRT, setting the gold standard for certification processes and competencies. The process to integrate AP roles nationally has shown many different pathways to integration as well as constructive lessons over the past decade.
As we move into this next phase of AP for MRTs, we will convene a group of stakeholders and experts to review the AP Framework and make adjustments incumbent of current and future AP practice. The lens will include medical imaging and radiation therapy views.
For more information about the AP Framework review, please contact professionalpractice@camrt.ca.
Canadian Context
The Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) firmly believes that there is a place for advanced MRT practice in Canada.
Since 2010, the CAMRT has made Advanced Practice in the MRT professions a strategic priority. A symposium held in November of that year was convened to discuss the advanced MRT practice in the Canadian context. Delegates from all MRT organizations, and representatives from different healthcare professions, came together to discuss the opportunities and challenges faced by MRTs as they pursue advanced practice. Topics of discussion included education, competencies, improving access to patient care and regulation. From this symposium, came a clear mandate for CAMRT:
- Define advanced MRT practice for the Canadian context
- Develop methodologies for advanced practice professionals to become certified
Based on this mandate, the CAMRT undertook two complementary initiatives: the Advanced Practice Framework and Advanced Practice Certification. Both of these initiatives have played a large part in the advances made to date in advanced practice in medical radiation technology, and both are integral to fulfilling the goal of advanced practice roles for all MRT profession across the whole country.
Advanced practice is a transformative evolution for the MRT profession. The development of advanced roles alongside existing practice has the potential to positively affect patient care in medical radiation technology by improving access and creating system efficiencies. It will benefit everyone in the profession by expanding professional horizons and elevating the standing of the profession. We encourage all members to engage with us in this pursuit. By uniting behind a common understanding and working together with CAMRT to lay foundations for roles, MRTs will become invaluable champions for advanced practice in Canada.
