What training do physicians need to practice nuclear medicine?
Physicians must first receive a medical degree and have one or more years of training in a medical specialty other than nuclear medicine. A further two years of training in nuclear medicine is then required during which special instruction is given in physics, radiopharmacy, and radiation biology, as well as patient evaluation, radionuclide therapy, and diagnostic studies. Emphasis is given to cost-effective approaches to patient care. After successful completion of at least three years of post-doctoral training, a physician may take the certifying examination given by the American Board of Nuclear Medicine.
