ExpressCare Helps to Address Radiology Technologist Shortage in Maryland with New Job Opportunity Program
BALTIMORE — In response to the growing need for radiology technologists, ExpressCare Urgent Care Centers, a LifeBridge Health partner, launched its Limited X-Ray Machine Operator (LXMO) Program earlier this year with the first group of nine students recently graduating.
The program allows medical assistants with at least one year at ExpressCare or Children’s Urgent Care to earn certification and become registered as a Limited X-ray Machine Operator through Maryland Board of Physicians after passing the Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography exam administered by the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists). Graduates can perform limited X-ray exams of the extremities, chest and spine.
The program is important and necessary as Maryland is experiencing a significant radiology technologist (rad tech) shortage, with an estimated 12% vacancy rate in hospitals with impacts on ambulatory care settings. This is due to a growing demand for medical imaging, a large portion of the experienced workforce nearing retirement and insufficient new graduates to fill the positions. The shortage can lead to longer wait times for procedures and is being addressed through state-level initiatives, including the passage of Senate Bill- 830 in 2024 creating a new pathway for these professionals to practice.
“We are grateful for the leadership of then Senator Kathy Klausmeier, now Baltimore County executive, and Delegate Thomas Hutchinson who are invested in preserving healthcare access in the community by supporting good policy to strengthen the healthcare workforce,” says Jennifer Witten, vice president of government and community development for LifeBridge Health.
Led by Amanda White, the program blends online learning with hands-on clinical training, simulations, review sessions and mock exams. Participants tackle four state exam modules at their own pace, with weekly assignments and classroom sessions to keep them on track. The LXMO program takes about six to nine months to complete. Nine medical assistants recently graduated and are preparing for the state test. Another four started a new cohort this past fall and another cohort kicks off this spring.
About ExpressCare
ExpressCare Urgent Care Centers has over 35 locations throughout Maryland and provides rapid flu, COVID-19 and RSV testing, on-site labs, X-rays, telemedicine and treatment for minor injuries — helping reduce ER visits while delivering care seven days a week.
Contact
Theo Hayes, lbhmedia@lifebridgehealth.org, 410-601-2296