Asheboro's Randolph Hospital's Diagnostic Imaging Department has recently been awarded a three-year accreditation from the American College of Radiology (ACR) for the following areas: magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, nuclear medicine, computed tomography (CT), mammography and stereotactic.

"The accreditation speaks volumes for the quality care provided through the Diagnostic Imaging Department at Randolph Hospital. It shows that we are dedicated to limiting radiation doses to patients, producing quality images and ensuring consistency for all patients," said Gary Abode, director of diagnostic imaging."

The ACR accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. The six-month process to apply for ACR accreditation closely assesses image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures and quality assurance programs. The accreditation is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field.

"The award shows the dedication of our staff," said Karla Maness, assistant director of diagnostic imaging. "All of our staff members have participated in extensive training for their related areas and through continuing education and certain standardized tests, all staff members are either registered or registry eligible technologists."

The ACR was founded in 1923 as a national professional organization serving more than 34,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services. The organization strives to refine and improve quality patient care through encouraging continued education, research and ensuring current laws and regulations are upheld by member imaging facilities.

"I am very proud of Randolph Hospital because ACR accreditation is not only an extensive process, it is an expensive one too; it requires a lot of staff time," said Abode.