Study of Registration Practices of the
COLLEGE OF MEDICAL RADIATION TECHNOLOGISTS OF ONTARIO, 2007
- 1. INTRODUCTION
- 2. BACKGROUND OF THE REGULATORY BODY
- 3. REGISTRATION PRACTICES
- a. Registration Requirements and Application Process
- b. Documentation Required from Internationally Trained Individuals
- c. Credential Assessment (Third Party and/or Internal)
- d. Academic/Program Requirements
- e. Work Experience Requirements
- f. Examinations
- g. Language Requirements
- h. Fees
- i. Third Parties
- j. Typical Length of the Registration Process
- k. Accredited Programs
- l. Internal Review/Appeal Process
- 4. BRIDGING PROGRAMS
- 5. MUTUAL RECOGNITION AGREEMENTS
- 6. APPLICANTS’ INTERACTIONS WITH REGULATORY BODY
- 7. CHANGES SINCE THE 2005 SURVEY
- 8. REGISTRATION INFORMATION AND STATISTICS
- 9. SOURCES
ISBN 978-1-4249-6460-4 [HTML English version]
1. INTRODUCTION
The Office of the Fairness Commissioner (OFC) undertook a study of registration practices of Ontario's regulated professions during the fall and winter of 2007–2008. The purpose of the study was to understand each regulated profession's 2007 registration practices and to establish baseline data and information to enable the OFC to measure progress as it fulfills its mandate under the Fair Access to Regulated Professions Act, 2006.
This report reflects the registration practices of the College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario as of December 31, 2007. Information in this report was gathered from:
face-to-face meetings with registration staff of the regulatory body
additional documentation provided by the regulatory body
relevant websites
career maps for the profession posted on the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration's website (where applicable).
The College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario also provided registration information and statistics for 2005, 2006 and 2007 through a standard spreadsheet designed by the OFC.
An analysis and summary of the findings for all of the regulated professions is contained in the OFC's Ontario’s Regulated Professions: Report on the 2007 Study of Registration Practices.
2. BACKGROUND OF THE REGULATORY BODY
a. Legislation
The College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario (CMRTO) operates in accordance with the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and the Medical Radiation Technology Act, 1991. The registration of medical radiation technologists is governed by Ontario Regulation 866/93, as amended.
b. Protected Titles
To practise as a medical radiation technologist in Ontario, a person must be registered with the CMRTO. The title “medical radiation technologist” or the abbreviation MRT can be used only by members of the college.
Only a member of the college who holds a specialty certificate of registration may use the following terms or their abbreviations. (Members who resign from the college are unable to use the title “medical radiation technologist” until such time as they reinstate their membership.)
Medical Radiation Technologist – Radiography, MRT(R)
Medical Radiation Technologist – Radiation Therapy, or Medical Radiation Technologist – Radiation Therapist, MRT(T)
Medical Radiation Technologist – Nuclear Medicine, MRT(N)
Medical Radiation Technologist – Magnetic Resonance, MRT(MR)
c. Definition of the Profession
A medical radiation technologist (MRT) is a qualified professional who uses radiation or electromagnetism to produce diagnostic images of a patient’s body or who administers radiation to treat patients for certain medical conditions, on the order of a physician.
During two to five years of education, MRTs are trained to use sophisticated and complex imaging and radiation therapy equipment. MRTs use this equipment on the order of a physician to produce images of different parts of the body, which are then interpreted by a physician. MRTs also apply radiation to parts of the body for radiation therapy, on the order of a physician.
Medical radiation technologists work in health care facilities, including hospitals, clinics and cancer centres.
i. Medical Radiation Technologist Specialties
Radiography
Radiography is the use of x-rays to produce images of parts of the body for the diagnosis of disease, trauma and congenital abnormalities. Medical radiation technologists registered in radiography may perform general x-rays, fluoroscopic examinations, angiography, mammography and computed tomography.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is the use of ionizing radiation to treat diseases such as cancer. Medical radiation technologists registered in radiation therapy work together with oncologists to plan treatment, administer treatment and educate the patient on how to cope with side effects.
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine is the use of radiopharmaceuticals to produce images of the body and treat disease. Medical radiation technologists registered in nuclear medicine use gamma cameras and computer systems to assess organ function and structure, and help in the diagnosis of numerous disorders. Nuclear medicine is used in the treatment of thyroid diseases, certain blood disorders, and bone metastases.
Magnetic Resonance
Magnetic resonance is the use of electromagnetism (static magnetic fields and radio frequencies) to produce diagnostic images. Medical radiation technologists registered in magnetic resonance play a significant role in imaging the brain, spine, abdomen, pelvis and musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems.
A medical radiation technologist can perform a radiographic, nuclear medicine or magnetic resonance examination or a radiation therapy treatment on a patient only when a member of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario orders the procedure.
ii. Authorized Procedures of Medical Radiation Technologists
In addition to using radiation and electromagnetism, there are four procedures that MRTs are authorized to perform on the order of a physician. These are:
Taking blood samples from veins. For example, in some nuclear medicine procedures blood is drawn from the veins, mixed with a radioactive substance and then injected back into the body.
Administering substances by injection or inhalation. In radiography, magnetic resonance and radiation therapy, a special dye (contrast) may be injected to make parts of the body, such as the kidney or certain tissues, visible on the images; in nuclear medicine, a radioactive substance is injected to make images of certain body functions, such as the beating of the heart.
Administering contrast media through or into the rectum or through an artificial opening into the body. For example, in radiography, barium may be administered into the rectum to make the colon visible on the x-ray.
Tattooing. In radiation therapy, sometimes tiny tattoo marks are made on the skin to ensure that a patient will always be positioned precisely and accurately over a course of radiation treatment.
d. Labour Market/Economic Trends
In Ontario there are approximately 6,200 registered medical radiation technologists employed in hospitals, private clinics, cancer centres, research laboratories, industry, education and administration. Hospitals and clinics employ medical radiation technologists in the specialties of magnetic resonance and radiography. Major clinics, cancer centres and hospitals in large urban centres employ medical radiation technologists in the specialties of radiation therapy and nuclear medicine.
Most medical radiation technologists work full-time, with a 40-hour work week that includes weekend, evening and stand-by work. About 20 per cent of all employed medical radiation technologists in Ontario work part-time. Since the mid-1990s there has been a growing number of part-time, casual and contract positions available. There is a growing need for medical radiation technologists in Ontario.
e. New Developments Within the Profession
In 2005, the College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario (CMRTO) proposed amendments to its registration regulation in order to clarify the intent and meaning of the wording of sections 4(1) 1 iii and 4.1 (1) 1 iii relating to the assessment by the Registration Committee of the educational programs of internationally trained applicants in each of the four specialties of medical radiation technology.
The amendment establishes that an applicant who has successfully completed a medical radiation technology program in one of the specialties “offered outside Ontario and considered by the Registration Committee to be substantially similar, but not equivalent, to a program” in that specialty offered in Ontario meets the educational requirement of completing a program in medical radiation technology in that specialty. The applicant must also satisfy the Registration Committee regarding his or her competence to practise medical radiation technology in that specialty. This amendment came into effect on March 6, 2006.
f. Staffing
The staff of the CMRTO consists of nine full-time positions. Four out of the nine employees are involved in the registration process. The amount of staff time required for the registration process is equivalent to approximately 2.5 full-time positions.
3. REGISTRATION PRACTICES
a. Registration Requirements and Application Process
An applicant is someone who submits an application form with the required documentation and pays the application fee to the college.
i. Basic Requirements for Registration
To obtain a Certificate of Registration as a medical radiation technologist in Ontario, all applicants (domestic or internationally trained) must meet the requirements as set out in the college’s registration regulation. The regulation requires that an applicant:
Is able to speak and write English or French with reasonable fluency
Is a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada, or be authorized under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to practise the profession
Has not been convicted of a criminal offence or an offence related to the practice of the profession
Has not been found guilty of professional misconduct, incompetence or incapacity, or is not currently the subject of a proceeding for these in relation to the profession or any other health care profession, in Ontario or elsewhere.
In addition, the following requirements are essential for registration with the college in one or more of the specialties:
Evidence of successful completion of a medical radiation technology program, at an approved program in Ontario, at a program offered outside Ontario equivalent to an approved Ontario program, or at a program offered outside Ontario that is considered by the Registration Committee to be substantially similar, but not equivalent, to an approved Ontario program in medical radiation technology
Successful completion of an examination set or approved by the college’s Council
Clinical practice within five years immediately before the application, or successful completion of the program referred to above within this same period
Satisfactory evidence as to competence to practise as a medical radiation technologist, in the case of an applicant whose program is substantially similar, but not equivalent, to an approved Ontario program
Payment of the application fee and, if applicable, the evaluation fee
Payment of the college's annual fee and examination fee.
The Registration Committee makes no exceptions to these requirements. Applicants must satisfy these requirements in the same specialty for which they apply. Applicants who wish to apply to the CMRTO in more than one specialty must complete an application form, and submit the application and evaluation fee, if applicable, for each specialty.
ii. Steps in the Application Process for Ontario Graduates
Step 1 – Complete the College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario (CMRTO) application form
Applicants should carefully read and complete both Parts A and B of the form except in the areas indicated for the use of the training institution and administration.
Step 2 – Submit Part A of the application to the college
Applicants must have Part A signed by their program director and submit it to the college, along with the application fee and proof of Canadian citizenship or other appropriate documentation, at least 90 days before writing the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) examination. The college will confirm the application status and provide applicants with a receipt.
Step 3 – Give Part B to program director
The applicant’s program director will sign Part B and submit it to the college at the end of the program. This will provide confirmation that the applicant has successfully completed the educational program.
Step 4 – Write the CAMRT examination
Step 5 – Provide evidence to the college that the applicant has passed the CAMRT examination
Step 6 – Complete the application information update form and pay the registration fee
When all the requirements for registration are met, the college will provide the applicant with the Application Information Update form to complete and let the applicant know the amount of the registration fee (annual fee prorated to the applicant’s birthday).
Step 7 – Receive confirmation from the college that the applicant is registered
The college will provide the applicant with a certificate of registration and a registration number. The applicant or the applicant’s employer can confirm registration status over the phone. The college will also mail a new member package, which includes information about the college and the Quality Assurance Program.
iii. Steps in the Application Process for Canadian Graduates (Outside Ontario)
The CMRTO Council has determined that all of the programs offered in the other provinces that have been accredited by the Conjoint Committee for the Accreditation of Educational Programs in Diagnostic Imaging and Medical Radiation Technologies of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) are equivalent to the approved programs offered in Ontario.
Applicants who have completed a program in medical radiation technology in Canada but outside Ontario must submit an application form and do the following:
Provide evidence of successful completion of an educational program in medical radiation technology in the specialty for which the applicant is applying
Provide evidence of successful completion of the examination of the CAMRT in the specialty for which the applicant is applying (or, if the applicant completed an educational program in Quebec, he or she must provide evidence of successful completion of the OTRQ examination in the specialty)
Provide evidence of competent practice as a medical radiation technologist in the specialty, or successful completion of the program referred to above, within the past five years
Complete the declaration of conduct certifying that they have not been found guilty of a criminal offence or an offence related to the practice of medical radiation technology, professional misconduct, incompetence or incapacity
Pay the application fee.
If the applicant meets all the requirements for registration, the college will inform the applicant of the amount of the registration fee (annual fee prorated to the applicant’s birthday).
Once the applicant has submitted the registration fee, the college will provide the applicant with a certificate of registration and a registration number. The college also provides the applicant with the CMRTO Legislation Learning Package at no cost, in order that the applicant has knowledge of the appropriate statutes, regulations, policies and guidelines dealing with the practice of medical radiation technology in Ontario.
iv. Steps in the Application Process for Internationally Trained Individuals
Step 1 – Undergo an Academic Credentials Assessment
See section 3.c below.
Step 2 — Complete Clinical Competence Assessment
See section 3.e below.
Step 3 — Demonstrate Language Proficiency
See section 3.g below.
Step 4 — Additional Training
See section 3.d below.
Step 5 — Write the CAMRT National Examination
See section 3.f below.
Step 6 — Registration
Once applicants have completed the requirements of the Registration Committee, passed the CAMRT exam, submitted the registration fee (annual fee prorated to the applicant’s birthday), and completed any other requirements as directed by the Registration Committee, they will be issued a Certificate of Registration and a CMRTO number. Applicants are then be able to practise in Ontario as medical radiation technologists in the specialty indicated on the Certificate of Registration. To continue practising, members must pay an annual fee on or before their birthday every year.
b. Documentation Required from Internationally Trained Individuals
i. Required Documentation
All applications from internationally educated medical radiation technologists must undergo an assessment process conducted by the CMRTO. The college reviews the educational training and experience in medical radiation technology that applicants have from another country to determine whether they meet the requirements for registration with the CMRTO. An internationally trained applicant must submit the following documents and information:[1]
Proof of having completed an educational program in medical radiation technology in his or her specialty. The applicant must attach a notarized copy of their degree, certificate or diploma, or provide an original letter from the educational institution confirming successful completion of the program. The applicant must also provide an original or notarized copy of an academic transcript of marks from the educational institution. If documents are not in English or French, a translation performed by a reputable third party must be provided.
Evidence that the applicant has successfully completed a prerequisite program, if this program requires that students first complete another post-secondary educational program or courses prior to entering the program in medical radiation technology (e.g. a bachelor of science, a medical radiation technology program in another specialty, or prerequisite college or university courses or credits). The college requires independent verification of the details of the prerequisite program.
Detailed information about the educational program that the applicant has completed and the practical/clinical training that the applicant has had in a specialty of medical radiation technology. Applicants must provide the official curriculum or course outline from their educational institution for their program at the time they were enrolled in the program. The curriculum or course outline should contain a detailed list of the courses and a description of the content of the courses completed during training, including the amount of time spent in both the theoretical and clinical component, in hours, days or weeks. The curriculum or course outline must be certified by the educational institution or the professional association. If documents are not in English or French, a translation performed by a reputable third party must be provided.
Proof from the educational institution that the program (including the theoretical and clinical components) and examinations in medical radiation technology were conducted in English or French.
Confirmation of clinical competence in medical radiation technology in the applicant’s specialty, including the list of procedures which the applicant has performed, the date the applicant last performed them, and signed confirmation from the supervisor.
A letter from the applicant’s present or previous employer confirming the last day of the applicant’s employment as a medical radiation technologist in his or her specialty.
Proof of language fluency in English or French,
A completed declaration of conduct in which the applicant answers questions that confirm that he or she has not been found guilty of professional misconduct, incompetence or incapacity or a criminal offence. The applicant must answer these questions again immediately prior to being issued a certificate of registration.
A copy of the certificate showing that the applicant is a medical radiation technologist in his or her country.
A copy of a birth certificate if the applicant was born in Canada, or a copy of landed immigrant papers, permanent resident card, or employment authorization (work visa).
ii. Options for Applicants with Unavailable/Destroyed Documents
If an applicant is unable to provide the original or notarized copies of the necessary documents, the Registration Committee may choose to accept other evidence, such as an original letter from the educational program. Applicants are advised to contact CMRTO if they are unable to provide the original or notarized copies of the documents. The Registration Committee looks at these situations on a case-by-case basis.
c. Credential Assessment (Third Party and/or Internal)
All applications from internationally educated medical radiation technologists must undergo an assessment process conducted by CMRTO.
The CMRTO reviews all application forms received to ensure that they are complete. If applicants completed their education in medical radiation technology outside of Canada, their application form will be sent to the Registration Committee for review and a decision regarding the application for registration. Applicants will receive a letter notifying them that the Registration Committee will be reviewing their application and explaining the reasons for the review. If applicants have any new or additional information at that time or wish to make written submissions to the Registration Committee, they will have 30 days to submit them to the Registration Committee.
If applicants meet the requirements of the college’s registration regulation, they will be able to continue the registration process. If they do not meet the requirements of the college’s registration regulation, the Registration Committee has the authority to refuse to issue the applicant a Certificate of Registration. If they do not meet some of the requirements at the time of the review, such as a successful completion of the CMRTO approved examination, the Registration Committee may decide that they are eligible for registration, following the completion of certain requirements.
Once the Registration Committee completes the review of the application for registration, applicants receive a decision letter, along the Order and Reasons of the Registration Committee. The Order and Reasons clearly explain the reasons for the Registration Committee’s decision. Applicants are also be informed of their right to contact the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (HPARB) to appeal the decision of the Registration Committee if they do not agree with it.
It usually takes approximately four months from the time that the application for registration is accepted as complete to the time that the applicant receives the final decision of the Registration Committee.
If the Registration Committee approves an application, applicants can expect to have five years from the last date of their employment as a medical radiation technologist to complete all the requirements to become registered.
Based on the documents applicants provide with the application (see section 3.b), the Registration Committee will review their educational program to determine if it is substantially similar, but not equivalent, to an approved Ontario medical radiation technology program in their specialty. In the past, the Registration Committee has considered the following in its assessment of educational programs:
credential achieved: for example, a degree or diploma in radiography (radiological technology), radiation therapy, nuclear medicine or magnetic resonance
level of the educational program: for example, at a post-secondary college or university
prerequisite for entry to the program: for example, diploma or degree in medical radiation technology (radiography, nuclear medicine or radiation therapy) prior to entering a program in magnetic resonance
nature and content of the theoretical training: for example, anatomy and physiology, radiation physics and safety, patient care, clinical oncology, image evaluation and optimization, imaging equipment theory and operation, etc.
nature and content of the clinical training: for example, the procedures an applicant was trained to perform, the qualification of his or her supervisor, the types of clinical settings, the types of equipment, etc.
depth and breadth of the program: for example, the length of the program, the number of hours spent in theoretical training, the number of hours spent in clinical training
d. Academic/Program Requirements
To be registered with the CMRTO, an applicant must show evidence of having successfully completed a medical radiation technology program at an approved program in Ontario, at a program offered outside Ontario equivalent to an approved Ontario program, or at a program offered outside Ontario considered by the Registration Committee to be substantially similar, but not equivalent, to an approved Ontario program in medical radiation technology.
Additional Training. As part of its assessment of whether an internationally educated applicant is competent to practise in his or her specialty, the Registration Committee considers whether the applicant has:
Completed the CMRTO’s Legislation Learning Package, which contains information on the appropriate statutes, regulations, policies and guidelines dealing with the practice of medical radiation technology in Ontario. This package is provided to applicants free of charge.
Provided evidence of having completed training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for adults, children and infants at an appropriate institution or organization or of having completed a Basic Rescuer (Level C) program – usually eight to 12 hours long – in cardiopulmonary resuscitation from the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, or its equivalent from a comparable organization.
e. Work Experience Requirements
CMRTO does not require Canadian experience in medical radiation technology. An applicant who completed a program in medical radiation technology outside of Canada is required under the registration regulation to demonstrate competence to practise in Ontario as a medical radiation technologist in his or her specialty. Competence is usually demonstrated through work experience in medical radiation technology in the applicant’s home country. The CMRTO application form has a Clinical Competence Form, which provides a detailed list of all the procedures for each specialty. Applicants must list in detail all the types of procedures they have performed during their most recent employment or in their current employment in their home country.
To confirm that applicants are competent in those procedures, and that their written certification is correct, the direct clinical supervisor in their most recent or current place of employment must read and sign the section called “Validation of Clinical Supervisor.” Their direct clinical supervisor must be either a medical radiation technologist, radiologist or radiation oncologist who supervised daily procedures.
The Registration Committee assesses the applicant’s competence to practise based on the details described in the application form and Clinical Competence Form. The Registration Committee considers the following factors in its assessment of an applicant’s competence to practise as a medical radiation technologist in Ontario:
whether the list of procedures that an applicant has performed is similar to those performed by medical radiation technologists in his or her speciality in Ontario
whether an applicant’s direct clinical supervisor has confirmed that he or she has performed and is competent in the procedures listed
whether an applicant has performed the procedures listed within five years prior to the date of registration by the college.
Applicants must also provide proof that they have worked as medical radiation technologists or have completed a program in medical radiation technology within the last five years. A letter from their last or current employer stating the last date of employment is necessary to meet this requirement.
f. Examinations
The examination approved by the CMRTO Council is the national examination of the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT). All applicants must successfully complete the CAMRT examination in the specialty for which they apply.[2] After reviewing and approving the applications of internationally educated applicants, the CMRTO notifies them whether they are eligible to write this examination. The CAMRT sets and administers the certification examination for all provinces in Canada, except Quebec.
The CMRTO also notifies the CAMRT when internationally educated applicants are ready and approved to write the examination. Ontario graduates apply directly to the CAMRT to write the examination, through their educational programs. Canadian (outside Ontario) applicants have usually completed the CAMRT (or the OTRQ) examination at the time of application to the CMRTO.
Applicants must register for the examination directly with the CAMRT in Ottawa. The examination application form and examination preparation information can be found on the CAMRT website.
The CAMRT national exam is a standardized, multiple-choice exam that tests knowledge, skill and judgment (competencies) in each of the four specialties of medical radiation technology (radiography, nuclear medicine, magnetic resonance and radiation therapy).
This exam is one-day long and is offered three times a year – in January, May and September – at various locations throughout Canada. Sample examination questions and a reading list are included in the CAMRT’s Study Guide.
The CMRTO provides internationally educated applicants with a letter that makes it possible for them to join the library at the Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences in Toronto. With that library card, applicants are able to borrow the textbooks necessary to prepare for the examination.
Internationally educated applicants have three chances, in a period of two years, to pass the exam, provided that it is within the time frame designated in the Registration Committee’s decision. Applicants who have graduated from an approved Ontario program have three chances, in a period of two years, to pass the exam, provided that it is within five years from completion of the program. Applicants who do not successfully complete the examination do not meet the requirements for registration set out in the regulation and are not eligible for registration with the college.
Successful completion of the CAMRT national examination is a non-exemptible requirement under the registration regulation.
g. Language Requirements
Internationally educated applicants whose professional training was in English or French should send confirmation from their training institution of the language of instruction and assessment in their program. This confirmation is acceptable as proof of language proficiency. The evidence from the applicant’s training institution should state clearly that all theoretical and clinical training and the examinations were in English or French.
Internationally educated applicants whose professional training was not in English or French must show other proof of language proficiency. The Registration Committee accepts the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (iBT TOEFL) with a minimum total score of 45 in reading, listening, and writing, and a minimum score of 23 in speaking. The Registration Committee also accepts the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a score of at least 500 for the paper-based test or 173 for the computer-based test, and the Test of Spoken English (TSE) with a score of at least 40. Proof that the applicant has passed either the iBT TOEFL or the TOEFL and TSE may be submitted with the application form or later on in the registration process.
Internationally trained applicants are required to pay any costs related to proving language proficiency.
h. Fees
|
CMRTO application fee |
$100 (plus GST) |
|
CMRTO evaluation fee (credential assessment for internationally trained MRTs) |
$250 (plus GST) |
|
CMRTO annual registration fee |
$360 (plus GST) |
|
CAMRT examination fee (each exam) |
$600 (in 2007) |
|
CPR Level C Certificate Course |
Ranges from $35 to $55 |
i. Third Parties
| Name of Third Party | Relationship to Regulatory Body |
|---|---|
|
Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) |
Sets and administers certification examination |
|
Access and Options Program at the Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences |
Assists landed immigrants with skills training, clinical experiences, personal support and guidance needed to pass the certification examination and to help prepare landed immigrants to work in Canada. This is a voluntary program. |
|
Language testing services (TOEFL) |
Administers language fluency tests. |
j. Typical Length of the Registration Process
For internationally trained applicants, it usually takes approximately four months from the time the college receives a complete application to the time that the applicant receives the final decision (Order and Reasons) of the Registration Committee.
If the Registration Committee approves the application, internationally educated applicants can expect to have five years from the last date of their employment as a medical radiation technologist to complete the requirements for registration set out in the Order and Reasons, to become registered.
Ontario graduates must apply to the college at least 90 days prior to sitting the CAMRT examination. Ontario graduates have up to five years from the date of completing the college approved program in medical radiation technology to become registered.
k. Accredited Programs
The Council of the CMRTO reviews the approved programs regularly and they are subject to change without notice. (CMRTO does not use the term “accredited.”)
Radiography
Approved Programs in Ontario
Cambrian College of Applied Arts and Technology, Sudbury
Collège Boréal d’Arts appliqués et de technologie, Sudbury
Confederation College of Applied Arts and Technology, Thunder Bay
Eastern Ontario School of X-Ray Technology, Kingston
Fanshawe College of Applied Arts and Technology, London
Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology, Hamilton
Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences/University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine Joint Degree/Diploma Program in Medical Radiation Sciences – Radiological Technology, Toronto
Approved Programs Outside Ontario
British Columbia Institute of Technology, Burnaby
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, Edmonton
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, Calgary
Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology, Kelsey Campus, Saskatoon
Red River College of Applied Arts, Science and Technology, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Cégep de Rimouski, Rimouski, Quebec
Cégep de Sainte-Foy, Sainte-Foy, Quebec
Collège Ahuntsic, Montreal, Quebec
Dawson College, Montreal, Quebec
Atlantic Health Sciences Corporation, Saint John School of Radiological Technology – Diploma Portion of Degree Program, Saint John, New Brunswick
South-East Regional Health Authority, The Moncton Hospital School of Radiologic Technology – Diploma Portion of Degree Program, Moncton, New Brunswick
Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick – Campbellton/Université de Moncton/Régie régionale de la santé Beauséjour, Hôpital régional Dr. Georges-L. Dumont – Moncton – diplôme et degré, Campbellton, New Brunswick
Queen Elizabeth II/Dalhousie School of Health Sciences, Diploma and Degree Options, Halifax, Nova Scotia
University of Prince Edward Island/Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Charlottetown
College of the North Atlantic, Prince Philip Drive Campus, St. John’s, Newfoundland
The CMRTO Council has determined that all of the programs offered in all of the other provinces that have been accredited by the Conjoint Committee for the Accreditation of Educational Programs in Diagnostic Imaging and Medical Radiation Technologies of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) are equivalent to the approved programs offered in Ontario.
Radiation Therapy
Approved Programs in Ontario
Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences/University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine Joint Degree/Diploma Program in Medical Radiation Sciences – Radiation Therapy Technology, Toronto
Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences/Laurentian University – Radiation Therapy Technology Program, Toronto/Sudbury
Approved Programs Outside Ontario
British Columbia Institute of Technology, Burnaby
School of Radiation Therapy, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta
School of Radiation Therapy, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary, Alberta
Allan Blair Cancer Centre, Regina, Saskatchewan
Saskatoon Cancer Centre, Saskatoon
CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg
Cégep de Sainte-Foy, Sainte-Foy, Quebec
Collège Ahuntsic, Montreal, Quebec
Dawson College and McGill University Departments of Radiation Oncology, Montreal, Quebec
Saint John Regional Hospital, Saint John, New Brunswick
The CMRTO Council has determined that all of the programs offered in all of the other provinces that have been accredited by the Conjoint Committee for the Accreditation of Educational Programs in Diagnostic Imaging and Medical Radiation Technologies of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) are equivalent to the approved programs offered in Ontario.
Nuclear Medicine
Approved Programs in Ontario
Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences/University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine Joint Degree/Diploma Program in Medical Radiation Sciences – Nuclear Medicine Technology, Toronto
Approved Programs Outside Ontario
British Columbia Institute of Technology, Burnaby
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, Calgary
Collège Ahuntsic, Montreal, Quebec
New Brunswick Community College – Saint John, Diploma Program and diploma portion of Diploma-Degree Program, Saint John
Queen Elizabeth II/Dalhousie School of Health Sciences, Diploma and Degree Options, Halifax, Nova Scotia
The CMRTO Council has determined that all of the programs offered in all of the other provinces that have been accredited by the Conjoint Committee for the Accreditation of Educational Programs in Diagnostic Imaging and Medical Radiation Technologies of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) are equivalent to the approved program offered in Ontario.
Magnetic Resonance Approved Program in Ontario
Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences, Toronto
Approved Programs Outside Ontario
British Columbia Institute of Technology, Burnaby
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, Edmonton
Red River College of Applied Arts, Science and Technology, Winnipeg, Manitoba
The CMRTO Council has determined that, in order for a medical radiation technology program in the specialty of magnetic resonance to be considered to be equivalent to the medical radiation technology program in the specialty of magnetic resonance offered at the Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, it must be accredited by the Conjoint Committee for the Accreditation of Educational Programs in Diagnostic Imaging and Medical Radiation Technologies of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA).
l. Internal Review/Appeal Process
The Registration Committee reviews the educational programs in medical radiation technology completed by applicants who have completed programs outside Ontario to determine whether the program is considered to be substantially similar, but not equivalent to, an approved program offered in Ontario. The Registration Committee also considers whether these applicants meet the other requirements for registration. The applicant is notified by letter of any referrals to the Registration Committee by the Registrar, the statutory grounds of the referral, and the applicant’s right to make written submissions to the panel of the Registration Committee. This process also applies to Ontario graduates if they do not meet the requirements for registration set out in the regulation.
The Registration Committee is composed of five members appointed by the Council: one public member and four professional members, each representing one specialty. Of the five members, two are Council members (one public member appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council and one elected professional member) and three are members of the profession who are not Council members. The Registrar does not participate in the decision of the Registration Committee.
Applicants can request that the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (HPARB) review the decision of the Registration Committee. The applicant is notified by letter of the right to appeal the decision of the Registration Committee to HPARB at the same time that he or she is advised of the decision of the Registration Committee. This letter also contains the Order and Reasons of the committee. The Health Professions Appeal and Review Board is an independent adjudicative agency.
Applicants can request all the information concerning the decisions with respect to their case, which will be provided to them by the Registrar.
The information about appeals of registration decisions is not currently available on CMRTO’s website.
4. BRIDGING PROGRAMS
The Access and Options Program at the Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences is a voluntary program available to assist landed immigrants with skills training, clinical experiences, personal support and guidance needed to pass the certification examination and to prepare them to work in Canada. Admission to the Access and Options Program is available only to those applicants who have received a decision from the college’s Registration Committee that states they are eligible for registration with the college, following the completion of certain requirements set out in the Order and Reasons of the Registration Committee.
The Access and Options program covers only two specialties: radiography and magnetic resonance. It does not cover nuclear medicine and radiation therapy.
Based on an individual assessment performed by the Access and Options program, an individualized program is developed to prepare applicants to write the certification examination. The program could take from five months up to a full year.
Due to the customized nature of the program, tuition is charged on a course-by-course basis.
The program offers courses and support in the following areas:
Language
Interdisciplinary studies
Strategies for competency-based examinations
Radiological technology or magnetic resonance imaging reviews
Clinical experience
Courses are offered at the Michener Institute or through the Blackboard Learning System (distance education).
5. MUTUAL RECOGNITION AGREEMENTS
Currently, the profession of medical radiation technology has a mutual recognition agreement under the Agreement on Internal Trade. The agreement was signed in 2001 and all provinces, including Ontario, through either the relevant regulatory bodies, or voluntary professional associations are signatories to the agreement.
6. APPLICANTS’ INTERACTIONS WITH REGULATORY BODY
a. Nature and Frequency of Communication
The CMRTO has frequent contact with the applicant throughout the process. Communication is tailored to each applicant’s situation. Applicants can contact the CMRTO, via e-mail, mail, telephone and in person. Applicants who call are able to speak to a live representative from the college during business hours. Phone messages that are left overnight are returned on the next business day.
All e-mails received are answered with the relevant information requested. An application package is mailed or given in person to all prospective applicants who make inquiries to the CMRTO. Applicants who are out of the country or out of the Greater Toronto Area and not able to meet in person are supported through telephone meetings.
Walk-in applicants who are enquiring about the process may meet with the Director of Professional Practice or make an appointment. The Director of Professional Practice reviews the applicant’s documents for completeness and assists in determining which additional documents, if any, are required to ensure the application is complete for referral to the Registration Committee for review.
b. Backlogs
The college does not have a backlog of files.
A panel of the Registration Committee reviews all completed applications at the next meeting. The Registration Committee meets every six to eight weeks. Each application is reviewed at least twice by the panel: the first time to review the application and make a decision, the second to review and approve the Order and Reasons.
c. Complaints Regarding the Registration Process
The CMRTO does not currently have any complaints from applicants regarding the registration process, nor are there currently any appeals before the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board regarding decisions of the CMRTO Registration Committee.
The CMRTO deals with concerns of applicants on a case-by-case basis. Questions and concerns of applicants are addressed on a pro-active and supportive manner.
7. CHANGES SINCE THE 2005 SURVEY
The Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration conducted a survey in 2005 to collect information about occupational regulatory bodies in Ontario. Since that time, the CMRTO career map was updated, in December 2006.
In addition, the Registration Committee attended an educational workshop on the assessment of foreign credentials presented by World Education Services (WES). This workshop was intended to broaden panel members’ understanding of educational systems throughout the world and to provide hands-on training. Additional training and education on the registration processes have been provided to the Director of Professional Practice.
The college has committed additional resources and time to helping internationally trained applicants in preparing applications for registration. The CMRTO continues to work with a number of external agencies in projects and initiatives related to internationally trained individuals.
8. REGISTRATION INFORMATION AND STATISTICS
Definitions used in these tables:
Alternative class of licence: a class of licence that enables its holder to practise with limitations; additional registration requirements must be met in order to be fully licensed. The College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario has no alternative classes of licence.
Applicant: an individual who has applied to start the process for entry to the profession.
Applicant actively pursuing licensing: an applicant who had some contact with the College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario within the year specified.
Inactive applicant: an applicant who had no contact with the College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario within the year specified.
Member: an individual who is currently able to use the protected title or professional designation of “medical radiation technologist” (MRT).
| Language | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 |
|---|---|---|---|
| English |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| French |
No |
No |
No |
| Other(s) |
|
|
|
| Applications received | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Largest number |
Philippines |
China |
Philippines |
| Second-largest number |
India |
Iran |
United States |
| Third-largest number |
China |
Philippines |
India |
| Fourth-largest number |
Iran |
United States |
Iran |
| Fifth-largest number |
Lebanon |
United Kingdom |
China |
| Number of staff | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Involved in registration process |
2.5 |
2.5 |
2.5 |
| Involved in appeals process |
1.5 |
1.5 |
1.5 |
| Members | Ontario | Other Canadian Provinces | USA | Other International | TOTAL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total members1 |
5,937 |
360 |
35 |
428 |
6,760 |
| Non-practising members |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 Refers to active members only.
|
|
Jurisdiction where members were initially trained in medical radiation technology (before they were granted use of the protected title or professional designation in Ontario) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In 2005 (Jan. 1 to Dec. 31) | Ontario | Other Canadian Provinces | USA | Other International | TOTAL |
| New applications received |
306 |
44 |
4 |
63 |
417 |
| Applicants actively pursuing licensing |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Inactive applicants |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who met all requirements and were authorized to become members but did not become members1 |
20 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
20 |
| Applicants who became members |
274 |
42 |
5 |
50 |
373 |
| Applicants who were authorized to receive an alternative class of licence but were not issued a licence |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who were issued an alternative class of licence |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
1 The CMRTO does not have retroactive data on the status of these applicants at the end of 2005 and 2006. Therefore, it has provided the correct data for those years, effective December 31, 2007.
|
|
Jurisdiction where members were initially trained in medical radiation technology (before they were granted use of the protected title or professional designation in Ontario) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In 2006 (Jan. 1 to Dec. 31) | Ontario | Other Canadian Provinces | USA | Other International | TOTAL |
| New applications received |
330 |
36 |
5 |
52 |
423 |
| Applicants actively pursuing licensing |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Inactive applicants |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who met all requirements and were authorized to become members but did not become members1 |
15 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
15 |
| Applicants who became members |
250 |
30 |
1 |
34 |
315 |
| Applicants who were authorized to receive an alternative class of licence but were not issued a licence |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who were issued an alternative class of licence |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
1 The CMRTO does not have retroactive data on the status of these applicants at the end of 2005 and 2006. Therefore, it has provided the correct data for those years, effective December 31, 2007.
|
|
Jurisdiction where members were initially trained in medical radiation technology (before they were granted use of the protected title or professional designation in Ontario) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In 2007 (Jan. 1 to Dec. 31) | Ontario | Other Canadian Provinces | USA | Other International | TOTAL |
| New applications received |
272 |
43 |
6 |
42 |
363 |
| Applicants actively pursuing licensing |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Inactive applicants |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who met all requirements and were authorized to become members but did not become members1 |
25 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
25 |
| Applicants who became members |
223 |
35 |
3 |
18 |
279 |
| Applicants who were authorized to receive an alternative class of licence but were not issued a licence |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Applicants who were issued an alternative class of licence |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
1 The CMRTO does not have retroactive data on the status of these applicants at the end of 2005 and 2006. Therefore, it has provided the correct data for those years, effective December 31, 2007.
9. SOURCES
College of Medical Radiation Technologists website: http://www.cmrto.org/home/default.asp. Last accessed: March 20, 2008.
College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario and Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration. “Access to the Medical Radiation Technology Profession in Ontario”. Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration website. http://www.citizenship.gov.on.ca/. Last accessed: March 20, 2008.
Representatives of the College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario met with staff of the Office of the Fairness Commissioner on November 26, 2007, to provide further information for this study.