Interpretation of the Computed Tomography Examination Procedure (WS/T 391—2024) and the Standard for Operation of Common Computed Tomography Examinations in Township Hospitals and Community Health Centers (WS/T 874)

In July 2024, the National Health Commission of China issued the WS/T 391—2024 computed tomography examination procedure, effective from January 1, 2025, replacing WS/T 391—2012. In September 2025, the WS/T 874 standard for the operation of common computed tomography (CT) examinations in township hospitals and community health centers was issued, effective from March 1, 2026. The two standards, targeting medical institutions of all levels and primary healthcare facilities, together form a hierarchically connected standard system for CT examinations in China. In this article, the two standards are interpreted, focusing on their scope of application, clinical applicability, and practical use, with emphasis on the individualized administration of iodinated contrast media in contrast-enhanced CT, standardized methods for pediatric CT examination, and diagnostic reference levels for pediatric radiation dose. This will assist radiological technologists and clinicians to accurately understand and implement the standards, to standardize CT examinations, to improve the homogeneity of image quality, and to provide technical support for the mutual recognition of examination results and the hierarchical medical system.