Legislation, Mandatory Notifications & Registration (MRTY3122) – Flashcards

30 Q&A flashcards covering regulation, registration, mandatory notifications, and related codes of conduct for medical radiation professionals.

What is the focus of the MRTY3122 course?

Legislation, Mandatory Notifications & Registration for medical radiation science professionals.

Which week covers Legislation, Mandatory Notifications and Registration?

Week 4.

How is diagnostic radiography regulated in Australia?

Through the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS) administered by AHPRA and the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA).

What is the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA) responsible for?

Practitioner registration and conduct for diagnostic radiography and other medical radiation professions.

What is the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) responsible for?

Administers NRAS, registers practitioners, and handles notifications.

What is the purpose of regulation of health professions?

To protect the public by ensuring practitioners are trained, competent, and adhere to ethical and professional standards.

What is a protected title?

A professional title that can only be used by those entitled to practice; misuse is an offence.

Which titles are protected for radiography-related practice?

Diagnostic Radiographer, Radiographer, Medical Radiation Practitioner, and Medical Imaging Technologist.

What does NRAS stand for and what is its purpose?

National Registration and Accreditation Scheme; provides a single national framework for registration across Australia.

When should you apply to AHPRA for registration?

In your final year of study, about 4–6 weeks before course completion.

What identity documents are commonly required for AHPRA registration?

Certified copies of identity documents such as birth certificate, passport, and Medicare card.

What are the four triggers for mandatory notifications?

Impairment, intoxication while practicing, significant departures from accepted professional standards, and sexual misconduct.

Who can make notifications to AHPRA?

Members of the public, other health practitioners, employers, education providers, and practitioners about their own conduct.

What is the difference between voluntary and mandatory notifications?

Mandatory notifications must be made when triggers exist; voluntary notifications can be made at any time.

How common are tribunal proceedings following notifications?

Only a small proportion (<4%) of investigations proceed to a tribunal.

How is impairment defined in health practitioner regulation?

A physical or mental impairment, disability, condition or disorder that detrimentally affects the capacity to practise.

Is ASMIRT certification mandatory for MRI work?

No; it is not required, though it can support knowledge and promotions.

What is the purpose of AHPRA's Code of Conduct?

Sets standards of professional conduct and patient care; adherence is a condition of registration.

How does ASMIRT's Code of Conduct relate to AHPRA's Code?

ASMIRT's Code aligns with and complements the AHPRA Code.

What is CPD and its minimum requirement?

Continuing Professional Development; 60 hours over 3 years, at least 10 hours in a year, with 35 hours substantive.

What is recency of practice?

Maintain an adequate connection with the profession, typically 450 practice hours within the last three years.

What is required for radiation licensing in NSW?

A current radiation license to perform diagnostic radiography, issued by the NSW EPA; apply after AHPRA registration; license renews annually or every 3 years.

What is WWCC and who needs it?

Working with Children Check; required in healthcare settings; paid employment check, not for volunteers.

What are the vaccination requirements for NSW radiographers?

Vaccination against MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, hepatitis B, varicella, COVID-19, and influenza; TB screening may be required after travel to high-risk areas.

What is the approximate cost breakdown for initial MRPBA registration and related fees?

MRPBA registration $385; NSW EPA license $295; NSW WWCC $107; ASMIRT membership often free for students; total around $843.

Why must you avoid misrepresenting your professional status?

Using protected titles without entitlement misleads the public and is an offence.

What is a vexatious complaint?

A complaint that is groundless and malicious, intended to harass or intimidate.

What constitutes sexual misconduct with a patient?

Sexual activity with a current patient, sexual remarks, touching inappropriately, or engaging in sexual behaviour in front of a patient.

What registration-related information is checked during the process?

Identity documents, criminal history, recency of practice, and language proficiency.

Which agencies regulate radiation safety and equipment standards?

ARPANSA handles radiation equipment standards and environmental monitoring; MRPBA handles practitioner registration.