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As a growing number of laboratories become familiar with the new ICACTL accreditation process and prepare to apply for accreditation, the ICACTL staff finds themselves frequently fielding the question, "How do we know if our laboratory meets the accreditation requirements?" Below are answers to some of the most typically asked questions about this very important topic.

Question: Where do I find the requirements for accreditation?
The published Standards are the foundation of the ICACTL accreditation program, providing detailed guidelines and recommendations for operating a quality computed tomography (CT) laboratory. The operational prerequisites for any laboratory applying for accreditation in one or more of the testing areas (i.e.: Cardiovascular, Neuroimaging, CTA, Whole Body CT) are located in the document titled ICACTL Standards, Part I CT Laboratory Operations - Organization. The clinical aspects related to the specific testing areas are detailed in a corresponding document: ICACTL Standards, Part 2 CT Laboratory Operations - Computed Tomography Testing. Both documents are published on the ICACTL website, at www.icactl.org/icactl/apply/standards.htm. By referencing these two documents and assessing the laboratory's compliance to The Standards, laboratories can ensure that their overall operation meets and remains in good standing with the basic elements considered necessary for the performance of quality computed tomography testing.

Question: Is it necessary to have a Medical Director and a Technical Director?
All laboratories applying for accreditation must have a qualified Medical and Technical Director appointed in these roles. These positions are considered paramount in ensuring that the laboratory maintains compliance to The ICACTL Standards.

In the event that the Medical Director and Technical Director roles are filled by the same individual, this person must meet all of the requirements for training and experience and fulfill the responsibilities of both positions.

Question: Does my staff have acceptable training and experience?
The complete standards regarding staff requirements are located in the Organization section of The ICACTL Standards. These may be viewed or downloaded from the ICACTL website, at www.icactl.org/icactl/apply/standards.htm.

Question: Does the staff within our laboratory have enough Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits?
All laboratory staff members must meet the minimum CME requirements. A minimum of 15 hours of relevant CME is required over the previous three year period. To be considered relevant, the course content must be CT-related. For physicians, the credits must be Category I AMA. For technologists, either Category I AMA or RCEEM approved credits are acceptable.

If the Medical Director or medical staff members have completed training or certification, as specified under "Required Training and Experience," in the past three (3) years, the CME requirement will be considered fulfilled.

If the Technical Director or a member of the technical staff has successfully acquired an appropriate credential within the past three (3) years, the continuing education requirement will be considered fulfilled.

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