Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine physicians use nuclear imaging and radiopharmaceuticals to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions, including cancers, heart disease, gastrointestinal, endocrine and neurological disorders. Nuclear imaging provides unique information that often cannot be obtained using other imaging procedures, offering the potential to identify disease in its earliest stages.

I have enjoyed Nuclear Medicine as a specialty and have never had a day where I regret doing it. Nuclear Medicine examines the functional aspect of disease processes, and compliments the anatomical information provided by Radiological modalities.

 

The emergence of PET imaging and hybrid imaging such as PET/CT and PET/MRI in the last decade has become an integral part of cancer management, and I appreciate the opportunities that allow me to help patients who are affected by this frightening diagnosis.

Dr Stanley Ngai
Radiologist and Nuclear Medicine Specialist

Clinical Practice

Nuclear medicine physicians practice in both public and private health facilities, working collaboratively with other medical specialists and health professionals to diagnose and treat patients of all ages.

Nuclear Medicine – Information

Number of specialists - QLD (2021)

Number of new fellows - QLD

Number of specialists - AUS (2021)

Number of new fellows - AUS

Average weekly hours
QLD

Average Age
QLD

% Aged 60+
QLD

58% of 2022 workforce intend to retire by 2032

Proportion Female/Male - QLD

Male
Female

Location - QLD

Regional
Major cities

Public/Private QLD

Private
Public

Number of trainees - QLD

Number of new trainees - QLD

Number of trainees - AUS

Number of new trainees - AUS

Proportion Female/Male trainees - QLD

Female
Male

2023 QLD Training Program Selections (First Year)

Eligible Applications Received
Applicants Selected

The data on this page compares the number of applicants that were selected to commence their first year of training in Queensland in 2023 to the total number of eligible applications*

The data was sourced from the relevant medical specialist college, or from selection committees coordinated by a Queensland Health pathway/network, or an individual facility.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

This data reflects a point in time figure for the selection of applicants commencing the first year of an accredited training program in the 2023 clinical year.

* eligible applications are determined by selection committees according to the eligibility criteria and required documentation prescribed by the relevant medical specialist college.

The data on this page compares the number of applicants that were selected to commence their first year of training in Queensland in 2023 to the total number of eligible applications.

See more.

Length of Training

RACP trainees: 6 years full-time (3 years basic training, 3 years advanced training) OR RANZCR trainees: 6 years full-time (4 years accredited radiology training, 2 years core training in nuclear medicine)

Method of Allocation

College-selected trainees may be allocated to a training post by:

  • College
  • Queensland Health pathway/network (centrally coordinated)
  • Queensland Health facility (accredited for training)

Training and assessment summary

For detailed information in relation to training and assessment requirements, please contact RACP.

Training program overview

Nuclear medicine advanced training may be undertaken following completion of requirements for basic training with the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP). The nuclear medicine training program incorporates work-based learning and assessment, with successful trainees attaining the qualification of FRACP with accreditation to practise as a Nuclear Medicine Physician in Australia or New Zealand. Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR) trainees complete nuclear medicine training through the RACP, with successful RANZCR trainees issued a letter confirming satisfactory completion of the Nuclear Medicine program, with accreditation to practice as a Specialist in Nuclear Medicine in Australia or New Zealand.

Eligibility

RACP prospective nuclear medicine trainees must hold current medical registration, have completed RACP Basic Training (including Written and Clinical Examinations) and been appointed to an appropriate advanced training position. RANZCR prospective nuclear medicine trainees must have completed the RANZCR Clinical Radiology Part 2 Examinations, hold current medical registration, have an appointment to an advanced training posiiton, a minimum of 4 years accredited radiology training and completed all system focused training and work-based assessment requirements including research.

Flexibility

RACP trainees: minimum 0.2 full-time equivalent commitment. Training program must be completed within 8 years. RANZCR trainees: minimum 0.5 full-time equivalent commitment.

Interrupted training

Allowed. Interruptions of more than 12 continuous months may require the development of a Return to Training Plan in collaboration with a supervisor and approval from the relevant training committee.

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Regional Training Pathways