Global Initiative on Radiation Safety in Healthcare Settings

Overview

The last two decades has seen a significant increase in the demand for medical radiation services following the introduction of new techniques and technologies that has led to major improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases. Inappropriate or unskilled use of these technologies can result in potential health hazards for patients and staff. There is a need to control and minimize these health risks and to maximize the benefits of radiation in medicine.

WHO proposes a Global Initiative on Radiation Safety in Health Care Settings to mobilize the health sector towards a safer and effective use of radiation in health care. This initiative aspires to bring together health authorities, international organizations, professional bodies, scientific societies, academic institutions, NGOs and experts in concerted actions to improve the implementation of radiation safety measures in medical settings.

The present report details the discussions, conclusions and recommendations derived from a Technical Meeting on the Global Initiative on Radiation Safety in Health Care Settings convened by WHO on 15- 17 December 2008. The 67 participants, including experts from 25 MS and representatives from 15 international organizations, professional associations and scientific societies, have agreed to collaborate in this initiative. The global strategy was discussed; main activities were identified under three areas of work: risk assessment, risk management and risk communication; ways for enhancing collaboration and engaging key stakeholders were proposed; and a roadmap was outlined.

The WHO will work with the stakeholders to develop and implement this Global Initiative on Radiation Safety in Healthcare Settings, which aligns with the WHO agenda to:

• promote development; o
• foster health security;
• strengthen health systems;
• harness research, information and evidence;
• enhance partnerships; and
• improve performance.