Early diagnosis of lung disease is critical, and it is recognised international best practice to use NIOSH-certified ‘B Readers’ for all pneumoconiosis (dust-related lung disease) chest exams. 

The NIOSH certified B Readers are physicians who have undergone extensive training to recognise subtle specific lung disease. Once certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) USA, the B Reader is able to report on pneumoconiosis to uniform standards set by the International Labour Organisation (ILO). 

Only a small number of radiologists in Australia are ‘B Reader’ accredited to report to ILO Standards. A complex standardised system of reporting and recording nodules makes it an extremely difficult and sensitive test. 

The B Reader looks for changes on the chest x-ray that may indicate exposure and disease caused by particles such as silica and asbestos. Using stringent ILO protocols, the B Reader systematically examines the x-ray in a step-by-step method and records certain changes or abnormalities on the chest x-ray that can be caused by dust inhalation and fibres. 

With the B Reader’s special ability and skill, they are able to provide precise and accurate ILO classifications.

In Queensland, the use of B Readers is a mandatory requirement under the coal mine workers’ health scheme. At I-MED it is our policy to use B Readers for all dust-related examinations across Australia, which makes us unique from other radiology practices. 

With our nationwide network of clinics, your patients can attend their nearest I-MED and be sure of receiving world-class reporting.