Which statement best captures the Code’s view on the scope of practice in diagnosis?

• A. Interpretation and diagnosis are outside the radiologic technologist’s scope of practice
• B. Technologists are the primary diagnosticians for all imaging studies
• C. Technologists should determine treatment plans based on imaging
• D. Technologists can diagnose diseases directly from imaging alone

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that the scope of practice for radiologic technologists centers on performing imaging and obtaining quality images, while diagnosing and interpreting those images are reserved for physicians. The statement that interpretation and diagnosis are outside the radiologic technologist’s scope of practice best captures the Code’s view, because it keeps medical diagnoses within the realm of licensed physicians or radiologists and ensures patient care is guided by appropriate clinical judgment. The other options imply that technologists act as primary diagnosticians, determine treatment plans, or diagnose diseases from imaging alone, which goes beyond their authorized role and could compromise patient safety.