radiation therapy; rural counties

HB 2049 allows rural Arizona hospitals (with under 400,000 residents or designated as critical access hospitals) to use particle accelerators for cancer treatment under "general supervision" instead of requiring a doctor's constant presence. It requires hospitals to establish written treatment protocols reviewed annually, have doctors observe technicians every six months, and ensure doctors are available on-site at least once weekly for patient care. The bill directly affects rural hospitals and radiation therapy technologists by expanding access to cancer treatment while maintaining safety through documented protocols and oversight. This policy change aims to improve cancer care access in underserved areas without altering existing federal regulations.