Real Challenges Before, During, and after Establishing a Theranostics Center in Developing Countries.

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Medicine
• Oncology
• Radiopharmacology

Background:

• Theranostics, integrating diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals, has advanced significantly, particularly in prostate cancer management.
• Despite rapid growth, implementing theranostics, especially in developing countries, faces substantial obstacles.
• These challenges impact the pre-establishment, establishment, and post-establishment phases of theranostics centers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and analyze the multifaceted challenges in establishing and sustaining theranostics centers in developing countries.
• To offer strategic insights and potential solutions for overcoming identified obstacles.
• To highlight the feasibility of successful theranostics center implementation through case studies and collaborative efforts.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative analysis of challenges encountered during the three key stages of theranostics center development: pre-establishment, establishment, and post-establishment.
• Exploration of barriers including funding, administrative support, personnel training, resource availability, patient access, and research capacity.
• Case study analysis, exemplified by the Philippines' experience, to illustrate practical implementation strategies.

Main Results:

• Pre-establishment barriers include limited funding, administrative hurdles, and personal risks.
• Establishment phase challenges involve multitasking demands, a shortage of trained professionals, and resource scarcity.
• Post-establishment issues encompass overcoming systemic barriers, ensuring patient access, logistical complexities, and building research capabilities.

Conclusions:

• Successful establishment of theranostics centers is achievable despite significant challenges.
• Key success factors include robust leadership, comprehensive training programs, international partnerships, and a patient-centric philosophy.
• The Philippine experience demonstrates that with clear vision and dedicated collaboration, theranostics implementation is attainable.