Chad Hensley, M.Ed., R.T.(R)(MR), and the California Society of Radiologic Technologists are the recipients of the 2015 ASRT Award for Outstanding Grass-roots Advocacy.
Established in 2003, the annual award recognizes one ASRT member and one affiliate society for outstanding legislative advocacy efforts on behalf of the radiologic science community.
“It takes dedication and commitment to be an effective advocate,” said ASRT President William J. Brennan Jr., M.A., R.T.(R)(CT), CIIP. “Chad and the CSRT have been tireless in monitoring health care legislation and educating lawmakers about patient safety and the need for professional standards for radiologic technologists. Without question, their perseverance and focus make them deserving of this award.”
Hensley works in Nevada, a state with limited licensure laws for medical imaging and radiation therapy personnel. To educate the radiologic technology community and the state about the importance of establishing stronger licensure laws, he developed a communications program that saw him travel throughout the state to meet with stakeholders. During his campaign, he met with students, radiologic science professionals and the Nevada Radiation Control Program. In 2014, he was instrumental in working with the ASRT and the Nevada Society of Radiologic Technologists to establish the NvSRT as an active affiliate. Today, as president of the NvSRT, Chad is leading the society’s efforts to establish licensure standards for all radiologic technologists in Nevada.
The CSRT has continuously advocated for professional standards and patient safety in California. It monitors California legislative and regulatory activities and uses social media, its website and other communication vehicles to engage R.T.s throughout the state. Recent efforts included its contributions to the ongoing considerations regarding safety and training requirements for personnel who perform fluoroscopic procedures in the state. The CSRT also contributed to a discussion of the role of practice standards at a meeting of the Radiologic Technology Certification Committee, part of the California Department of Public Health.
Hensley will receive $250 and a recognition plaque. The CSRT will receive $500 and a recognition plaque. The awards will be presented at the Honors Evening Reception June 27 during the 2015 ASRT Annual Governance and House of Delegates Meeting in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
To learn more about nominating a colleague or affiliate for the 2016 award, contact Syd Sanders at ssanders@asrt.org or 800-444-2778, Ext. 1322