The next decade for clinical medical physics

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• The practice of medical physics is subject to external influences.
• The American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) is addressing these changes.
• Understanding future professional practice is crucial for medical physicists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the impact of external factors on medical physics practice over the next decade.
• To provide a framework for understanding these anticipated changes.
• To share personal observations from a leader within the AAPM.

Main Methods:

• Invited commentary.
• Personal observations and insights from leadership experience.
• Discussion of external factors influencing the medical physics profession.

Main Results:

• Identifies key external factors likely to shape medical physics practice.
• Highlights the AAPM's role in developing guidance for these changes.
• Provides a perspective on the future of clinical medical physics.

Conclusions:

• External factors will significantly alter medical physics practice.
• Proactive engagement and adaptation are necessary for the profession.
• Leadership insights offer a valuable outlook on future challenges and opportunities.