Advances in Medical Physics for Diagnostic Radiology and Procedures in the Asia-Pacific Region

A recent study focusing on the state of medical physics in diagnostic radiology and image-guided interventions across the Asia-Pacific region has been published in the journal Physical and Engineering Sciences in Medicine. This research was part of an initiative funded by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) aimed at enhancing the quality and safety of radiology services, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes.

The project, titled "Improving the quality and safety of diagnostic and interventional radiology services to benefit healthcare by elevating the expertise of medical physicists," involved collaboration among experts from multiple countries. Led by Dr. Ioannis Delakis, Chair of the Radiology Specialty Group at the Australasian College of Physical Scientists and Engineers in Medicine (ACPSEM), and Dr. Zoe Brady, Chief Physicist and Radiation Safety Officer at the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, the study sought to assess the current professional landscape.

Through questionnaires distributed to 15 specialists and discussions held during an online workshop, the findings revealed key insights. While many countries in the region emphasize the importance of high academic qualifications for medical physicists, there are notable gaps in formal clinical training programs and professional registration processes. Although most countries have established medical physics societies and equipment quality control regulations, recognition of the profession and the scope of practitioners' roles vary significantly.

Challenges such as limited awareness of the medical physicist's role among clinical staff were identified, but there are also promising opportunities. Some countries offer academic programs specifically covering radiology physics, which could help bridge existing gaps.

This publication helps raise awareness of the current status of medical physics in the Asia-Pacific region and highlights the efforts of Australian experts sharing their knowledge. The study contributes to the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative, which strives to improve access to radiation-based cancer diagnosis and treatment in low- and middle-income countries.

Overall, this research underscores the necessity for ongoing development of medical physics education, professional recognition, and integration into clinical teams across the region, fostering safer and more effective radiology practices.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-state-medical-physics-diagnostic-radiology.html