March 26, 2013 — The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) launched a new online resource for imaging professionals, referring physicians and the public on dose optimization for nuclear medicine and molecular imaging procedures. The information is designed to help ensure patients receive the smallest possible amount of radiopharmaceutical that will provide the appropriate diagnostic information.
“Advancing a better understanding of radiation dose and risk and promoting dose optimization in nuclear medicine and molecular imaging is a top priority for SNMMI,” said Frederic H. Fahey, DSC, SNMMI president. “The online resource is a key component of our dose optimization initiative, as it compiles important information in an organized fashion in one central location.”
The online resource includes SNMMI journal articles, abstracts, educational offerings, news articles, presentations and links to useful websites, as well as other materials. The resource will be promoted to SNMMI members through various communication channels, promoted through social media and shared with referring physician and patient groups.
In June 2012, SNMMI started its dose optimization initiative by issuing a position statement, saying that radiation dose for all nuclear medicine and molecular imaging procedures should be optimized by ensuring that the patient receives the minimum radiation dose necessary to provide useful diagnostic information. The position statement recognizes that the use of low levels of radiation in nuclear medicine procedures carries some possible risk. However, if an appropriate procedure — one that can provide the physician with clinical information essential to the patient’s treatment — is not performed when necessary due to fear of radiation, it can be detrimental to the patient.
Dose optimization has become a part of SNMMI’s communications, outreach, advocacy and education efforts. This integrated approach helps to provide information and guidance on dose optimization to imaging professionals, referring physicians, policy makers and the public. In addition to these activities, SNMMI continues to actively participate in the Image Gently and Image Wisely campaigns.
“It is our firm belief that the ‘right test with the right dose should be given to the right patient at the right time,’” said Fahey. “We hope that this online resource will provide professionals with tools they can use to implement this into clinical practice and educate the public about optimal dosing for nuclear medicine and molecular imaging procedures.”
For more information: www.snmmi.org/dose
July 30, 2024 
