New York State Blocks John Patrick University’s X-Ray Tech License Program: What It Means for Future Technicians

In a troubling situation affecting many aspiring X-ray technicians in New York, the state has halted licenses for students at John Patrick University of Health and Applied Science. This Indiana-based university had partnered with local hospitals to provide a distance learning program since 2021. However, New York officials claim the university lacks proper accreditation and doesn’t adequately supervise students.

In response, the university filed a lawsuit. They argue that the claims regarding supervision are vague and unfair. Six radiology experts from reputable health institutions like Northwell Health and NewYork-Presbyterian back the university, stating that students were supervised by licensed professionals during their clinical training.

Currently, there are about 571 students in this program, with around 85% aiming to work in New York. Many had expected to graduate soon, but the health department’s intervention has left their futures uncertain. Over 200 students signed statements expressing that the state’s actions threaten their careers.

John Patrick University has put new enrollments on hold while they fight the state’s decision. They believe the call for accreditation from a national body, the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), is a recent shift that sidesteps proper regulatory procedures.

Historically, concerns over the quality of training in medical fields have emerged periodically. In the past, accreditation has been essential to ensure that students receive proper training and can secure licenses to practice. For radiologic technologists, who earn a median annual wage of $77,660 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, being part of an accredited program is crucial for job security and career advancement.

The impact of this decision could affect not just current students but also those who have graduated from the program, raising questions about their ability to work in their field.

Many students, who are also juggling jobs while studying, feel they’ve invested time and money into a future that now seems clouded. The degree program touted an achievable path to become a radiologic technologist in about two years. With tuition costs averaging over $40,000, the stakes are high for those involved.

Public sentiment is visible in a Change.org petition titled “Let Us Work: Stop NY from Destroying JPU Radiology Careers,” which has garnered over 2,200 signatures. Participants express frustration over being caught in a bureaucratic mess that threatens their livelihoods.

Amid this turmoil, local health systems are cautiously watching the developments. Northwell Health acknowledged the situation but did not provide further comments. Meanwhile, the future of the program—and its students—remains uncertain as the legal battle unfolds.



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