ASTRO launches new training program to expand radiopharmaceutical therapy access
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) recently launched a national program designed to expand physician access to radiopharmaceutical therapy training.
The Radiopharmaceutical Therapy Authorized User Training Center Program creates a network of accredited sites where radiation oncologists can complete the final regulatory requirements needed to become authorized users for RPT. The initiative aims to address workforce bottlenecks that inhibit patient access to cancer therapies.
“Radiopharmaceutical therapy is an important advance in precision oncology, but its impact depends on fostering a well-prepared, multidisciplinary workforce,” Sameer Keole, MD, chair of the ASTRO board of directors, said in an announcement. “By launching these authorized user training centers, ASTRO is helping remove a practical barrier that many physicians face and promote consistent, high-quality and safe delivery of care for patients.”
The program’s introduction comes as demand for RPT is expected to see significant growth in the coming years. That coincides with a shortage of qualified professionals to deliver safe care for patients.
Under Nuclear Regulatory Commission and Agreement State rules, physicians must complete didactic education and participate in three supervised RPT cases to qualify as authorized users. However, in many parts of the country, these cases are difficult to come by due to limited patient volumes, lack of local mentors or the absence of established RPT programs. ASTRO’s training centers are designed to close this gap by offering a structured, no-cost pathway for eligible physicians to complete their case requirements.
Participants will be given an opportunity to train directly with experienced RPT clinicians, which will entail observing and participating in three supervised treatments under their guidance. They also will receive free access to ASTRO’s “Beyond the Beam” radiopharmaceutical therapy training series, which provides 15 American Medical Association PRA Category 1 Credits covering imaging, dosimetry, safety and clinical implementation.
To be eligible, applicants must be ASTRO members who have already completed their required NRC or state training hours. Applicants must be able to provide documentation from their radiation safety officer confirming that the training will be accepted.
“This program will build a durable infrastructure for the future of radiopharmaceutical therapy and position radiation oncologists and our multidisciplinary partners to meet the growing demand for these treatments,” said ASTRO CEO Vivek S. Kavadi, MD, MBA. “By expanding access to high-quality training today, we are helping ensure that more patients nationwide can benefit from these therapies in the future.”
The program was made possible thanks to an educational grant from Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp. For more information, click here.
In addition to her background in journalism, Hannah also has patient-facing experience in clinical settings, having spent more than 12 years working as a registered rad tech. She began covering the medical imaging industry for Innovate Healthcare in 2021.