Comparative analysis of physician extender curricular requirements in radiology: a detailed view.

PURPOSE This article provides a detailed analysis comparing the educational requirements for physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and radiologist assistants (RAs) working in radiology. The authors examine the curricular requirements as they pertain to radiology for each program and highlight the advantages and limitations of each within potential roles in radiology. METHODS A literature review was performed using the following databases: CINAHL Plus, MEDLINE, and Academic Search Complete. The search parameters were English-language peer-reviewed articles published from 2002 through 2010. The search terms included "physician assistant," "nurse practitioner," "radiologist assistant," "radiology practitioner assistant," and "physician extender." The inclusion term applied was "radiology" to further hone results. RESULTS The RA curriculum includes a core education that is comparable with the physician assistant and nurse practitioner curricula, with the exception of prescriptive authority and health promotion and disease prevention. The RA curriculum adds instruction in radiobiology, radiation safety, radiologic procedures, fluoroscopic unit operation and safety, and radiopharmaceuticals. CONCLUSIONS The RA curriculum is specific for the radiologic imaging area and advantageous to radiologists, radiology managers, and patients undergoing diagnostic procedures.