Nuclear medicine is the medical specialty that utilizes the nuclear properties of radioactive and stable nuclides to make diagnostic evaluations of the physiologic and/or anatomic conditions of the body and to provide therapy with unsealed radioactive sources. The nuclear medicine technologist is an allied health professional who, under the direction of an authorized user, is committed to applying the art and skill of diagnostic evaluation and therapeutics through the safe and effective use of radionuclides. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: preparation, quality control testing and administration of radioactive compounds; execution of patient imaging procedures including computer processing and image enhancement; laboratory testing; patient interviews; instruction and preparation for administration of prescribed radioactive compounds for therapy; quality control; and radiation safety.
This is an 18-month, full-time Nuclear Medicine Technology program leading to an Associate in Arts in Nuclear Medicine Technology at Bellevue College. It is offered through a cooperative effort between Columbia Basin College and Bellevue College. The curriculum prepares students in all aspects of nuclear medicine technology. In addition to performing a wide variety of imaging and therapeutic procedures, students learn to prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals, explain the procedures and their risks, take patient histories and analyze the results of each study. Students work with a number of radiation detection systems, including gamma cameras and positron emission tomography systems. They also work with computers that analyze data from imaging studies in addition to those used for administrative tasks. Most importantly, students work directly with patients helping to ease their anxiety as well as provide important test result information for physician diagnosis of their ailments. Through the use of distance education and interactive television courses, Bellevue College will deliver course content to students at Columbia Basin College. Students will be able to complete the great majority of the clinical portion of the degree at clinical facilities in the Tri-City area. Upon successful program completion, students are eligible for national certification exams as well as Washington state licensure.
Students are required to attend a Nuclear Medicine Information Session at CBC prior to applying for the program through Bellevue College. The prospective student would then apply to Bellevue College for the program which is a selective and competitive admissions process. Tuition and fees for the entire program are approximately $8,000; books are approximately $1,000, most of which are purchased at the beginning of the program.
