How to Create a World Class Dose Reduction Program

"Effective dose reduction is best accom- plished using a multifaceted approach. Protocol optimization, proper use of scanner features, patient dose tracking and analysis, and staff training are among the many,important elements that should be addressed. *A dose reduction committee should be composed of the radiology administrator or center manager, the chief or supervising radiologist, the diagnostic medical physicist, and the chief technologist for each x-ray based modality. "Once responsibilities have been assigned and a timeline set, start with CT and establish baseline doses, make sure existing hardware and software is being used properly, optimize proto- cols, evaluate new hardware and software needs, and,then track and analyze patient doses to measure progress. " Once the dose reduction program is up and running, ensure that key stakeholders are educated about it and that its existence, purpose and results are communicated to patients and the surrounding community.