AAPM Task Group 298: Recommendations on certificate program/alternative pathway candidate education and training.

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Health Professions Education

Background:

• Clinical medical physics entry typically requires a Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Educational Programs (CAMPEP)-accredited graduate program and residency.
• An "alternative pathway" exists for individuals with doctoral degrees in physics or related fields, often involving certificate programs.
• Concerns exist regarding the depth of medical physics-specific training for alternative pathway candidates compared to traditional routes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing recommendations for alternative pathway candidates in medical physics.
• To develop updated recommendations for the education and training of these candidates.
• To ensure adequate preparation for individuals entering medical physics residencies via alternative routes.

Main Methods:

• Formation of AAPM Task Group (TG) 298 in 2016.
• Review of previously published recommendations for alternative pathway candidates.
• Development of new recommendations for education and training.

Main Results:

• The manuscript summarizes the findings and recommendations of AAPM TG 298.
• The report addresses the need for appropriate didactic, research, and clinical exposure for alternative pathway trainees.
• The recommendations aim to bridge potential gaps in training compared to traditional CAMPEP-accredited programs.

Conclusions:

• Standardized and comprehensive training is crucial for alternative pathway candidates in medical physics.
• The TG 298 report provides a framework for evaluating and improving alternative pathway training programs.
• Ensuring robust training will enhance the competency of all professionals entering clinical medical physics.