Radiology expert tells committee House Bill 479 would align Ohio with federal guidance on contrast supervision

Dr. Rekha Modi (S9), a fellowship‑trained abdominal imager and director of quality and safety in imaging at the Cleveland Clinic, told the Senate Health Committee that House Bill 479 modernizes supervision rules for contrast administration in diagnostic imaging.

Dr. Modi said the American College of Radiology updated its guidance in 2024 and that CMS allows greater flexibility in physician supervision for certain procedures under general supervision, in which the physician may be off‑site but immediately available. "This approach was designed to provide greater flexibility for imaging facilities while maintaining patient safety by ensuring that a trained individual is present on‑site to recognize adverse reactions, initiate immediate treatment, and activate emergency response when needed," she said.

The proponent noted Ohio administrative code rule 3701‑83‑52 currently requires on‑site or direct physician supervision in freestanding diagnostic imaging centers. HB 479 would permit general supervision backed by standardized institutional protocols, training, simulation‑based education and immediate availability of emergency medications.

During questioning, committee members asked about the incidence of severe contrast reactions. The chair cited a rough figure of 1 in 30,000; Dr. Modi said severe reactions are very rare and estimated about 1 in 10,000 in the context discussed. She emphasized that the key to safety is immediate availability of trained personnel and protocols for prompt treatment, including epinephrine when indicated.

Proponents argued the change would reduce access barriers and delays for needed imaging, particularly in outpatient and rural settings, without diminishing patient safety.