Guiding principles on the education and practice of theranostics
Thomas N.B. Pascual, Diana Páez, Andrei Iagaru, Gopinath Gnanasegaran, Sze Ting Lee, Mike Sathekge, John M. Buatti, Francesco Giammarile, Akram Al‐Ibraheem, Manuela Arevalo Pardo, Richard P. Baum, Berardino De Bari, Simona Ben‐Haim, Jean‐Yves Blay, Anita Brink, Enrique Estrada Lobato, Stefano Fanti, Anja Tea Golubić, Jun Hatazawa, Ora Israel, Ana P. Kiess, Peter Knoll, Jolanta Kunikowska, Lizette Louw, Giuliano Mariani, Siroos Mirzaei, Pilar Orellana, John O. Prior, Jean-Luc Urbain, Shrikant Vichare, Sobhan Vinjamuri, Irene Virgolini, Andrew M. Scott
Abstract
PURPOSE: The recent development and approval of new diagnostic imaging and therapy approaches in the field of theranostics have revolutionised nuclear medicine practice. To ensure the provision of these new imaging and therapy approaches in a safe and high-quality manner, training of nuclear medicine physicians and qualified specialists is paramount. This is required for trainees who are learning theranostics practice, and for ensuring minimum standards for knowledge and competency in existing practising specialists. METHODS: To address the need for a training curriculum in theranostics that would be utilised at a global level, a Consultancy Meeting was held at the IAEA in May 2023, with participation by experts in radiopharmaceutical therapy and theranostics including representatives of major international organisations relevant to theranostics practice. RESULTS: Through extensive discussions and review of existing curriculum and guidelines, a harmonised training program for theranostics was developed, which aims to ensure safe and high quality theranostics practice in all countries. CONCLUSION: The guiding principles for theranostics training outlined in this paper have immediate relevance for the safe and effective practice of theranostics.