AIFM young group focus on the medical physics residents in Italy: A survey results

The young working group of the Italian Association of Medical and Health Physics (AIFM) launched a survey to provide an overview of training and professional experiences of Medical Physics residents, in view of the upcoming ministerial regulations.

A 72-questions online survey was developed to collect data on demographic, educational backgrounds, internship experiences, University programs of the Post-Graduate Specialization School in Medical Physics and perspectives on AIFM initiatives. The survey was administered to 174 Medical Physics residents via mailing lists and social media between July to September 2024.

The response rate was 60 %. Most respondents (73 %) were under 30 years, with a balanced gender distribution. Nearly 85 % first encountered Medical Physics during studies, primarily through introductory courses. Prior to 2024, scholarships during the training period for Medical Physics residents were not always guaranteed: universities, hospitals and regions offered support, but 25 % did not receive any contributions. Approximately 50 % relocated outside their home region to attend the Post-Graduate Specialization School. Nearly 80 % expressed satisfaction with their programs, highlighting the quality of Medical Physics training in Italy. Over 80 % participated in courses and conferences (40 % as speakers) and approximately 65 % were involved in research projects (33 % publishing papers).

This survey provides an overview and identifies challenges encountered by Medical Physics residents within the AIFM community. Derived insights will guide future strategies and initiatives aimed at supporting and enhancing the training and professional development of young medical physicists.