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Multidisciplinary Approach to Theranostics Around the World: Integration of Care Teams

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Theranostics, the integration of diagnostic imaging with targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy, is reshaping the practice of nuclear medicine worldwide. This article provides a global perspective on how multidisciplinary teams deliver theranostics care in diverse health care systems. Contributions from experts across Asia, Europe, South Africa, Australia, Latin America, and the United States highlight the shared and region-specific roles of nuclear medicine physicians, technologists, radiopharmacists, physicists, and nurses in patient selection, radiopharmaceutical preparation, treatment delivery, and posttherapy care. A consistent theme across regions is the central role of the nuclear medicine physician in treatment oversight and the expanding responsibilities of nuclear medicine technologists in imaging protocols, radiopharmaceutical administration, patient care, and dosimetry. The roles of radiopharmaceutical scientists, medical physicists, nurses, and trial coordinators are variable but overall beneficial in delivering a successful theranostics service. Workforce shortages, financial barriers, and regulatory challenges continue to be significant obstacles to equitable patient access. Despite these challenges, multidisciplinary collaboration, tumor board integration, and shared care models are improving patient outcomes and advancing the field.

Source: Journal of Nuclear Medicine Technology

DOI: 10.2967/jnmt.125.271175