More radiologists from developing countries will have access to state-of-the-art training in Europe, thanks to an agreement signed today between the IAEA and the European Society of Radiology (ESR).
The practical arrangement between the IAEA and ESR, one of the largest professional organizations in the field of radiology, focuses on building capacity in diagnostic imaging. Diagnostic imaging tests — using radiographs, ultrasound, fluoroscopy or nuclear medicine to create visual representations of a body’s interior — are used to diagnose and, in some cases, treat a variety of non-communicable or chronic diseases with radioisotopes. See our diagnosis page for more.
“By combining the institutional reach and medical expertise of ESR and the IAEA, we will be able to bring easily accessible educational tools to a wide audience, supporting capacity building and education in Europe and beyond,” said Katrine Riklund, Chairperson of ESR’s Board of Directors.
Professionals from low- and middle-income countries, with a particular focus on small island developing states in the Pacific, will have the opportunity to participate in fellowship and scholarship programmes that will include one to five years of training in Europe. The parties will also collaborate on the development of interactive educational materials for the IAEA’s online Human Health Campus. ESR will make its experts available for training courses and expert reviews in low- and middle-income countries as part of the IAEA’s technical cooperation activities.
“Collaborations like this also impact cancer management and access to cancer treatment using radionuclides,” said Diana Paez, Head of the Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Imaging Section at the IAEA. “These forms of imaging play an essential role in radiotherapy planning as well as treatment during which imaging guides the physicians.”
The signature of the agreement took place ahead of the European Congress of Radiology — ESR’s annual conference and one of the largest scientific meetings in Europe. Held from 1 to 5 March in Vienna, it is expected to host more than 20,000 participants from over 100 countries. The attendees will include radiology professionals, radiographers and industry representatives.
