A new publication by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) provides guidance for the certification of clinical medical physicists as part of efforts to address a shortage of qualified professionals in the field around the world. Medical physicists ensure radiation doses are applied correctly to patients and are key to the safe and effective use of radiation medicine, for instance, in the battle against cancer.
The Guidelines for the Certification of Clinically Qualified Medical Physicists aims to overcome global challenges to obtain professional recognition in the field and to harmonize certification processes internationally. The 40-page document spells out criteria for the establishment of national certification schemes and for the registration of medical physicists and provides recommendations for their continuous professional development.