Haverhill and Lawrence, MA (May 1, 2026) — The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has just approved a new certificate program at Northern Essex Community College to address a critical need in the local healthcare industry. This fall, the college will offer certification in Limited Scope of Practice of Radiography. Limited X-ray Machine Operators, or LXMOs, can perform specific, routine X-ray procedures, primarily in outpatient settings like clinics, urgent care, or physician offices. Northern Essex is the first and only community college in Massachusetts to offer a state-certified Limited X-ray Operator program.

Northern Essex radiological technology students examining an X-ray.

“By filling workforce gaps and shortening the pathway to practical radiography skills, the LXMO certificate enhances career mobility for students and supports community healthcare partners with trained personnel where full technologist certification is not required,” said Radiologic Program director Angela Bowers.

LXMOs are instrumental in expanding capacity in urgent care centers and mitigating current demands on emergency departments for non-emergent care by conducting basic radiographic exams. Typically, they are imaging the chest and upper and lower extremities. LXMOs who wish to conduct more high-level imaging can apply most of the credits from their certification to an Associate of Science: Radiologic Technology degree. Northern Essex also has several seamless transfer agreements for those students who then want to earn a bachelor’s degree in medical imaging or a related field.

“The COVID-19 pandemic really exposed the need for LMXOs in Massachusetts,” said Dean of Health Professions Kathy Hudson. “But regulations didn’t allow for LMXO certifications at the time. When we heard in 2024 that the state was reexamining those regulations, we immediately put a proposal together for this program, and Professor Bowers worked tirelessly to get to this point. We are extremely proud to receive the news of its approval.”

The Limited Scope of Practice of Radiography certification will launch in the fall 2026 semester. Students will earn 26 credits over a six-month period, including weekly clinical hours. Once the coursework is completed, they will need to pass a state exam to receive their certification.

For more information on Radiography at Northern Essex, visit the webpage or contact Bowers.