Recent ACR Accreditation Testing Updates: Keeping you In the Know

The American College of Radiology (ACR) has released several updated Testing Overview documents across multiple modalities, along with an important clarification regarding phantom image submission timelines. Facilities preparing for accreditation or renewal should review these updates carefully to ensure compliance.

Phantom Examination Submission Requirements

All phantom examinations submitted for ACR accreditation must have been performed within 14 months of the date listed on the testing package released to the facility.

Facilities may submit phantom images from their most recent annual medical physicist’s survey, provided that:

• The images meet all other ACR submission requirements, and

• The images do not predate the testing package release date by more than 14 months (previously this was a 6 month window)

Please note that no images older than 14 months relative to the testing package date will be accepted for review, regardless of origin.

Also note all clinical examinations submitted must have been performed within 6 months of the date on the testing package that was released to the facility. No clinical images will be accepted for review that predate the testing package date by more than six months.  

Newly Revised ACR Testing Overview Documents

The following Testing Overview documents have recently been revised and are now available through ACR Accreditation Support:

• MRI Testing Overview
  Revised October 22, 2025

• CT Testing Overview
  Revised September 12, 2025

• Nuclear Medicine and PET Testing Overview
  Revised October 23, 2025

• Stereotactic Breast Biopsy Testing Overview
  Revised September 12, 2025

Facilities are encouraged to review the updated documents in full, as revisions may impact testing procedures, documentation requirements, or submission expectations.

Stay Prepared

Reviewing these updates early can help avoid delays in accreditation review and reduce the need for physics re-testing (i.e. a cost savings to you). If you have questions about how these changes apply to your facility or need assistance verifying compliance, don’t hesitate to contact your friendly MPC medical physicist.