TU‐E‐T‐6E‐03: MDCB Perspective On “Teaching Physics to Dosimetrists”

Abstract

Goal of the organization or project: The Medical Dosimetry Certification Board (MDCB) provides examination for competency in clinical and medical physics area for dosimetrist. The candidates who pass the examination are called Certified Medical Dosimetrist (CMD). Medical physics education and training curriculum is essential for a good patient care and qualifying the MDCB examination. Accomplishments: Since 1988, over 2200 dosimetrist are certified through MDCB examination. There are limited number of medical dosimetry programs that provide training and education. JRCERT accreditation is highly recommended for programs offering dosimetry training. The MDCB popularity has grown internationally. Last year Korea was added as MDCB examination site. Several other countries are being considered for MDCB test sites. Resources to help physicists know what to teach: There are nine categories in the examination; radiation physics, dose calculation methods, treatment planning, localization, brachytherapy, radiation protection, quality assurance, professional responsibility and computers with 20%, 25%, 30%, 8%, 5%, 2%, 3%, 2% and 5% questions, respectively. Proper medical physics education and training responsibility rests on medical physicists. A physicist who is planning to teach dosimetry course should visit www.MDCB.org and familiarize with the didactic and training requirements and other valuable information. Upcoming changes: The examinations are critically evaluated every year and at a regular interval through strategic planning that was conducted in 2003. The outcome is being implemented in 2005 examinations. Continuing education is being updated to maintain CMD certification. Formal training and accredited programs are given more importance.