[Radioprotection and medical practice: progress, distress and treats].

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiological Protection
• Health Policy

Background:

• Radiological protection is a long-standing concern for radiotherapists and nuclear medicine specialists, who generally understand associated risks.
• Risk awareness is significantly lower among practitioners using X-rays for diagnostic imaging and fluoroscopically guided procedures.
• Safety culture principles, such as justification and optimization, are less prevalent in healthcare compared to industrial sectors.

Discussion:

• The 2007 EU directive on medical exposures has driven significant changes in medical departments and safety culture.
• Despite awareness, incidents and accidents still occur, highlighting persistent gaps in radiological protection.
• There is substantial potential for reducing both individual and collective radiation doses for patients and healthcare professionals.

Key Insights:

• Diagnostic radiology and interventional procedures show a critical need for enhanced radiation safety culture.
• Implementing robust safety protocols can lead to considerable dose reductions.
• The EU directive serves as a catalyst for improving safety standards in medical exposures.

Outlook:

• Continued focus on developing and embedding a comprehensive safety culture is essential.
• Further initiatives are needed to ensure consistent application of radiological protection principles across all medical fields.
• Long-term benefits include improved patient outcomes and enhanced practitioner well-being through minimized radiation exposure.