The Global Role of the IAEA In Medical Physics
Abstract
Purpose
The mandate of the IAEA Dosimetry and Medical Radiation Physics (DMRP) Section is to support Member States (MSs) in enhancing their capacity to implement radiation imaging and treatment modalities safely and effectively. This work outlines some of the results achieved over the last biennium.
Methods
Activities conducted or supported by DMRP and its Dosimetry Laboratory address the needs of medical physicists and radiation metrologists. These activities include drafting new dosimetry codes of practice and other medical physics (MP) guidance, providing training across all MP disciplines, managing coordinated research projects (CRPs), maintaining global information databases, and organizing scientific events. Independent dosimetry audits are conducted to improve accuracy and promote best practice worldwide. Traceability and dose accuracy are further supported through activities in radiation metrology, including training, coordination of SSDLs, calibrations, and bilateral comparisons. Through the Technical Cooperation Programme, the Rays of Hope initiative and the establishment of Anchor Centres, countries are further supported through training, as well as in establishing or improving MP programmes and infrastructure.
Results
In 2024-25, DMRP organized or supported 71 training courses with 1571 participants across more than 120 MSs, and managed seven CRPs involving 53 participating institutions. IAEA publications were accessed nearly 130000 times. Four global databases were maintained, including DIRAC. A total of 1863 dosimetry audits for calibration and clinical beams (Co-60, photon, electron and brachytherapy since 2025) were conducted in 111 MSs. In addition, 1765 calibration coefficients were determined for 37 MSs. Thirteen new Anchor Centres were established and joint activities were coordinated across the network. Some activities resulted from collaborative efforts with professional organisations, including AAPM.
Conclusion
DMRP supports a broad landscape of activities oriented towards improving dose accuracy and MP best practice worldwide. Synergistic approach with professional organizations is crucial to achieve and further improve global impact.