Findlay, Ohio, Feb. 14, 2002 — The University of Findlay’s Nuclear Medicine Institute (NMI) has had its 52-week certificate program accreditation renewed for seven years by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT). Seven years is the longest time granted by the accrediting body.

NMI was originally accredited in 1979 and has maintained its accreditation since then. Accreditation recognizes programs as meeting or exceeding professional standards in nuclear medicine technology education.

Originally a hospital-based program, sponsorship of NMI was transferred to The University of Findlay in 1984. It was the first in what would become a list of 10 different health professions programs now offered at UF.

Accreditation includes the recognition of five academic affiliates, 41 clinical affiliates and 11 commercial radiopharmacies involved in the training of UF students. These facilities are located in seven different states. The academic affiliates grant college credit for the NMI certificate program, which may then be applied toward a two- or four-year degree. The clinical affiliates and commercial radiopharmacies provide hands-on clinical experience to NMI students. Graduates of the NMI program are eligible to apply for the national certification exam in nuclear medicine technology. In 2001, all NMI graduates who took the exam passed it.

The professional portion of the NMI program is 52 weeks long. Formal classes meet for 17 weeks on campus, followed by 34 weeks of clinical experience. Students then return to UF for one week of review and a comprehensive exam.

Nuclear medicine technology is a health profession that utilizes radioactive materials, primarily for diagnosis. Work settings include hospitals, private specialized physician offices and commercial companies throughout the United States.

Currently, there is a nationwide shortage of qualified individuals in this field, so demand for the nuclear medicine technologist is high.

For more information about the Nuclear Medicine Institute, contact Elaine Markon, director, at 419-434-4708.