Why Shielding Isn’t Always the Best Protection

For decades, lead aprons and gonadal shields were standard practice in X-ray imaging. However, leading radiation safety experts now advise against routine patient shielding during diagnostic X-ray procedures — and for good reason.

Organizations like the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) and the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) have issued evidence-based recommendations that show shielding can sometimes do more harm than good.

What’s Changed

Thanks to modern imaging technology, radiation doses in diagnostic exams are significantly lower than they once were, and the risk to patients — especially reproductive organs — is now minimal.

According to NCRP Statement No. 13:
“Use of patient gonadal and fetal shielding during abdominal and pelvic radiography is not recommended as routine practice.”

Here’s why:

• Shielding can interfere with automatic exposure controls, which may actually increase the dose of radiation.
• Misplaced shields can obscure anatomy, potentially leading to repeat exams — and more exposure.
• Shields do not significantly reduce radiation to internal organs due to scatter and internal absorption.

Backed by Science

The AAPM supports discontinuing routine shielding of patients during X-ray imaging, stating:
“There is no scientific evidence that shielding benefits the patient under current best practices, and shielding may adversely affect the diagnostic quality of images or increase the radiation dose.”

Patient Safety Is Still the Priority

Eliminating routine shielding does not mean less protection. In fact, it reflects our commitment to using the most up-to-date scientific standards to keep patients safe. With today’s technology, we can minimize radiation exposure more effectively through optimized techniques and equipment — not outdated shielding methods.

Still Have Questions?

We understand this is a shift from what many patients are used to. Our team is happy to answer your questions and provide more information about how we prioritize your safety every step of the way.

Additional Resources:

American Association of Physicists in Medicine

National Council of Radiation Protection and Measurements

Rapid City Medical Center’s Physician Owners are proud to once again offer the Future Healthcare Heroes Scholarship.

This year, we are excited to announce two scholarships, each valued at $2,500. One scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior, and the other to a Rapid City Medical Center staff member who is continuing their education in healthcare.

Students interested in pursuing healthcare careers in the fields of Nursing, Pre-Med, Lab Tech, Radiology Tech, Medical Assistant or other administrative credentials are invited to apply. Applicants must be currently enrolled in a Black Hills area high school program (public, private, or home education) and meet the graduation requirements in South Dakota, or be actively employed by Rapid City Medical Center.

Applicants must provide proof of transcript and be accepted and enrolled in a higher education program for Fall 2025 to receive their award.

To apply, submit a 1500-2500 word essay that answers the question: “What goal(s) do I have and how will they propel positive change, unity, and innovation in future local healthcare?”

“We are honored to offer the Future Healthcare Heroes Scholarship to outstanding, compassionate, and future-focused students in the Black Hills,” said CEO, Jennifer Trucano. “Our vision is to be your “first choice physicians providing superior healthcare and personalized service.” Consider all of these items in your submission. Good luck!”

A panel of retired RCMC physician partners will select qualified winner(s), and all entries will be made anonymous before consideration.  Students may submit applications between now and April 30^th at this link: APPLY HERE

Rapid City Medical Center, LLP is the largest physician owned, private group practice in the Great Plains region. Proud to be independent and run as a small business, rather than part of any hospital system, RCMC proudly supports future physician and healthcare leaders who want to continue the legacy of providing excellent medical services to our families, neighbors and communities in this region.