Periodic chest x-rays are a vital part of health screening programs. Radiographic changes are the most sensitive means of early detection of disease in workers exposed to respirable dusts. These abnormalities are usually seen radio graphically before they can be detected by pulmonary function testing or before signs and symptoms appear. The interpretation of the subtle findings of pneumoconiosis depends upon a technically superior chest radiograph.

Most Health Services Inc. strictly follows the guidelines and detailed specifications for chest radiographs under the NIOSH Underground Coal Miner X-Ray Surveillance Program. Our chest radiography program is currently certified as an approved Chest X-Ray facility.

The equipment used to perform chest radiographs are free standing integrated chest units, utilizing a High Kilovoltage-Grid technique and photo timing. As a means of total quality assurance and control, X-Ray films are developed on board prior to the employee leaving the mobile unit. This assures proper positioning, technique and optimum diagnostic quality.

Chest X-Rays are performed by medical technicians with current certifications from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Radiographic interpretations are performed by American Board Certified Radiologists who are Certified "B" readers. All radiographic changes associated with the pneumoconioses will be classified according to the ILO/ International Classification of Radiographs of Pneumoconioses-1980. This classification system
is designed to systematically record abnormalities in the chest provoked by the inhalation of dusts.