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Bill

Bill

HD 1972

An Act relative to medical physics

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sean Garballey

Massachusetts bill creates state licensing system for medical physicists to standardize qualifications and ensure radiation safety in clinical settings.

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Bill Summary · HD 1972

Legislative bill overview

HD 1972 establishes licensing and regulatory requirements for medical physicists in Massachusetts, creating a new professional credential under state oversight. The bill defines the qualifications, duties, and scope of practice for individuals working in medical physics roles, particularly in radiation therapy and diagnostic imaging facilities.

Why is this important

Medical physicists ensure radiation safety and treatment accuracy in cancer care and diagnostic procedures—errors can cause patient harm. Currently, Massachusetts has no state licensure system for medical physicists, meaning practitioners may lack standardized credentialing requirements, potentially creating quality and safety inconsistencies across healthcare facilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Establishing a new licensing board and inspection system requires state funding and administrative infrastructure
  • Grandfather clause debate: Whether currently practicing medical physicists without formal credentials must immediately meet new requirements or receive transition periods
  • Scope of practice definition: Disagreement over what specific clinical duties licensed medical physicists can independently perform versus tasks requiring physician supervision
  • Education requirements: Tensions between requiring board certification versus academic degrees versus work experience as qualifying credentials

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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