Baptist Hospital Imaging Department Again Earns American College of Radiology Accreditation

11/13/2019

PENSACOLA, Fla. (Nov. 13, 2019) – The Baptist Hospital imaging department has achieved American College of Radiology (ACR) accreditation in positron emission tomography - computed tomography (PET/CT) and general computed tomography (CT.)

Accreditation ensures that the best possible practices are in place so that patients receive the best quality care and most accurate imaging results.

A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is a nuclear medicine type imaging test that uses a radioactive drug called a radiotracer to help reveal how tissues and organs are functioning. A PET scan can sometimes detect disease before it shows up on other imaging tests. CT imaging uses special X-ray equipment, and in some cases a contrast material, to produce multiple images of the inside of the body to provide detailed anatomic information.

To gain accreditation, Baptist completed an extensive application process that certifies that the medical equipment used in imaging is approved, effective and accurate; that medical professional technicians are well trained, undergo continuing education in the field of imaging and radiology, and can verify their credentials online; and that the facility meets quality control and quality assurance guidelines. In addition, the facility must provide documentation verifying that annual surveys have been performed, and medical images from equipment must be reviewed.

The Baptist PET/CT has been ACR accredited since 2007. The CT has been ACR accredited since 2008. Both will be reviewed again in three years, per ACR guidelines.