Example: Mexico (Education of Professionals in Mammography - Medical Radiation Technologist)

In Mexico, the NOM-041 official regulation establishes the needs and responsibilities of the medical radiation technologists who work in a breast imaging service. Administrative requirements are a professional certificate recognizing the individual's qualifications as a medical radiation technologist and a technical level diploma in radiology, issued by a recognized medical institution. Additionally, proof of specific training in mammography or a tutorial or demonstration course (theoretical and practical) ought to be provided. To be recognized as proficient in breast imaging techniques, the medical radiation technologist is required to have performed at least 150 mammograms that have been judged to be of high quality by an experienced breast medical radiation technologist. The medical radiation technologist in a breast imaging service is responsible for obtaining images of clinical quality with as low exposure as is reasonably achievable, having the ability to obtain good quality images (at least 97%, with adequate quality for interpretation, less than 3% that are technically inadequate), having the capacity to take the necessary additional projections when required and being knowledgeable about the equipment and materials used in the service. The breast medical radiation technologist is responsible for carrying out image QC activities and understanding the proper use of the AEC. A medical radiation technologist who works in a diagnostic service needs to be familiar with the use of the mammography system to perform interventions. Ideally, they ought to be able to use stereotactic (location) equipment and other procedures in performing biopsies and be familiar with other breast imaging techniques (MRI, ultrasound, etc.). They need to be able to create an environment of trust and respect, informing the patient about the study technique clearly and effectively.