ACPSEM Training, Education and Assessment Program

Transcription

1 ACPSEM Training, Education and Assessment Program For Medical Physics and Radiopharmaceutical Science Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 1

2 Acknowledgements The authors acknowledge the significant contributions of the following individuals, who have been instrumental in developing the original (ROMP) TEAP, and whose documents were used as the sources for the original version of this document. John Drew Lyn Oliver Steve Howlett Anne Perkins Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 2

3 Table of Contents Acknowledgements Introduction Training, Education and Assessment Program (TEAP) TEAP Principles Roles and responsibilities Professional Standards Board (PSB) Certification Panels Specialty Groups The Registrar Clinical Supervisor Trainers Thesis Supervisor Research Project Supervisor Head of Department / Chief Physicist /Chief Radiopharmaceutical Scientist Clinical Program Coordinator / Clinical Training Coordinator / Clinical Preceptor TEAP Coordinator (ACPSEM Position) ACPSEM Office ACPSEM Branches Fees The Program for Radiation Oncology Medical Physics Entry Requirements Program Postgraduate Academic Degree Course Undertaking a Doctorate Instead of a Master s Degree Recognition of prior postgraduate degrees An ACPSEM Accredited Masters Degree in Medical Physics A non-accredited postgraduate degree in Medical Physics A Non-Accredited Postgraduate Degree in Physics with a Research Component A Non-Accredited Postgraduate Degree in Physics with no Research Component A Postgraduate Degree in a Discipline other than Physics Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 3

4 4.6. Clinical Training Consideration of Previous Clinical ROMP Experience Assessment for Radiation Oncology Medical Physics Successful Completion Current ROMP TEAP References The Program for Diagnostic Imaging Medical Physics Entry Requirements Program Postgraduate Academic Degree Course Undertaking a Doctorate Instead of a Masters Degree Recognition of prior postgraduate degrees An ACPSEM Accredited Masters Degree in Medical Physics A non-accredited postgraduate degree in Medical Physics A Non-Accredited Postgraduate Degree in Physics with a Research Component A Non-Accredited Postgraduate Degree in Physics with no Research Component A Postgraduate Degree in a Discipline other than Physics Clinical Training Consideration of Previous Clinical DIMP Experience Assessment for Diagnostic imaging Medical Physics Successful Completion Current DIMP TEAP References The Program for Radiopharmaceutical Scientists Entry Requirements Program Postgraduate Academic Degree Course Undertaking a Doctorate Instead of a Master s Degree Recognition of prior postgraduate degrees A Postgraduate Degree in a Discipline other than Radiopharmaceutical Science Clinical Training Consideration of Previous Radiopharmaceutical Science Experience Assessment for Radiopharmaceutical Science Successful Completion Current RPS TEAP References Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 4

5 1. Introduction 1.1. Training, Education and Assessment Program (TEAP) TEAP is the Training, Education and Assessment Program administered by the Australasian College of Physical Scientists and Engineers in Medicine (ACPSEM). TEAP is currently offered in three disciplines: Radiation Oncology Medical Physics (ROMP); Diagnostic Imaging Medical Physics (DIMP), specializing in Nuclear Medicine Physics or Radiology Medical Physics or both; and Radiopharmaceutical Science (RPS). Trainees are called registrars by the ACPSEM. Completion of TEAP enables a registrar to achieve Certification from the ACPSEM in the relevant discipline. The key components of TEAP are: An ACPSEM accredited (or approved) postgraduate degree qualification from a tertiary institution 1 ; An approved period of clinical training at an ACPSEM accredited hospital which leads to the required knowledge and competencies in the relevant discipline 2 ; and Research and development activities. More details of the assessment criteria required to achieve Certification in the separate disciplines are given in Sections 4-6. The program is administered by the ACPSEM through the Professional Standards Board (PSB) and the Certification Panels in each discipline TEAP Principles The ACPSEM mission is to advance services and professional standards in the physical sciences and engineering in medicine for the benefit and protection of the community. The ACPSEM sees training, education and assessment of registrars as key elements of this mission. The following principles apply to all of the ACPSEM TEAPs: The TEAP is intended to provide world standard educational, training and assessment of registrars which equip them with the knowledge and competencies required to practise to the highest standards throughout their working lives, for the benefit and protection of the community; The TEAP provides registrars with comprehensive integrated theoretical and practical knowledge in their discipline of medical physics or RPS; The competency based training elements of TEAP are documented in a user-friendly manner through the use of a Clinical Training Guide (CTG); The TEAP trains registrars to a point where they have achieved the level of knowledge and competence necessary to accept responsibility and to practice independently and will know when to seek further guidance or supervision; 1 Refer to Sections 4-6 for more details 2 Refer to Sections 4 6 for more details Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 5

6 Upon completion of the TEAP, registrars should be able to satisfy the relevant Certification Panel that they have achieved the level of knowledge and competence necessary to be considered a MP or RPS specialist and, subject to meeting the other requirements, be eligible for entry to the ACPSEM's relevant Register of recognized Specialists; The theoretical and practical elements of the TEAP are integrated, providing a clear alignment between the postgraduate coursework and clinical training; Research is an essential element of the TEAP. The research undertaken should contribute to the advancement of the profession. Research projects may be chosen to address clinical needs and be undertaken in conjunction with the clinical training, or they may be projects that develop fundamental knowledge; The competency based training component of the TEAP is designed to be completed within a three year to five year time frame, depending on whether the registrar is also completing a Masters degree while enrolled in TEAP. 2. Roles and responsibilities 2.1. Professional Standards Board (PSB) The Professional Standards Board (PSB) is responsible for advising the ACPSEM Board on training and education, has ultimate responsibility for all ACPSEM accreditation and certification programs and considers reports from Course/Department Accreditation Panels and recommendations from Certification Panel Chairs. The PSB ensures, wherever possible, that the accreditation procedures and certification programs have a common framework. The Chair of the PSB is responsible to the ACPSEM Board for the administration of matters relating to education, training and certification to ensure that: Professional standards are set and maintained; Certification programs are of a satisfactory standard; There are agreed common goals, policies or decisions wherever possible; and The College s professional activities are continually improved. The ACPSEM Board has also delegated responsibility to the PSB Chair to: Authorize certification of individuals as MP and RPS specialists, upon the recommendation of the relevant Certification Panel; Authorize accreditations of university courses and clinical training institutions, upon the recommendation of the relevant University or Departmental Accreditation Panel 3 ; Authorize placement of individuals of suitably qualified individuals on the ACPSEM s Register of Specialists for the relevant discipline; Handle certification appeals (individuals) and accreditation appeals (clinical training institutions & university courses); Appoint members of certification and accreditation panels; Approve certification and training programs (including documentation); Approve professional standards; and Approve CPD programs and changes to programs. 3 For further details, please refer to the ACPSEM s Accreditation of University Postgraduate Courses in Medical Physics and Accreditation of Clinical Departments Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 6

7 Full details of the roles of the PSB and the PSB Chair may be found in ACPSEM s Duties and Guidelines for Officers of the ACPSEM Certification Panels Separate Certification Panels exist for ROMP, DIMP and RPS. The role of the Certification Panels is to examine registrars to assess whether they have reached the required competency level. The Certification Panels also assess the competence of others (including overseas applicants) wishing to be placed on the ACPSEM Register of Specialists in the relevant discipline. The Panels specific responsibilities are to: Establish a standard required for demonstrating competence; Examine registrars; Assess and examine overseas applicants for certification or registration in the particular discipline; Appoint and train new examiners; Provide clinical specialist advice on standards and competency; and Provide interactive advice to the PSB and the specialty group management committee (through the Certification Panel Chairs). Each Certification Panel also has an executive committee, which consists of the Chair and several other senior members of the panel. The Executive committees meet regularly to expedite issues relevant to operation of the panels Specialty Groups The roles of the Specialty Groups related to TEAP are: To make recommendations to the Specialty Certification Panels on entry standards, training programs, accreditation and certification processes and professional competence; and Provide leadership in the organisation of learning, promotion and implementation of the specialty. The Specialty Group Chair liaises, on behalf of the Specialty Group, with the Chairs of the PSB and the Certification Panels and the ACPSEM office on certification matters relevant to the sub-discipline The Registrar Registrars have overall responsibility for managing their own training program. Registrars are adult learners, capable of managing their own time, work commitments and training. Registrars responsibilities include: Enrolling in the ACPSEM TEAP program as soon as they start their clinical training; Working with their designated clinical supervisor to develop a structured training plan. This should be based on the department training program approved as part of the department accreditation; Meeting regularly with their supervisor to discuss progress. Fortnightly meetings are recommended; Completing set work in a timely fashion; Responding to feedback from the clinical supervisor and trainers positively and constructively; Endeavouring to maximize the benefit obtained from learning opportunities offered by the department; Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 7

8 Maintaining a record of training evidence in a format that has been agreed with their supervisor and external assessor; Complying with ACPSEM reporting requirements, including; o o o Providing evidence of completion of TEAP assessment requirements to the ACPSEM. Participating in annual progress reviews. Making training records available for inspection by the ACPSEM on request. Paying TEAP fees annually (or quarterly) to remain enrolled in TEAP Clinical Supervisor Each registrar will be assigned a clinical supervisor for their in-service clinical training. The clinical supervisor must be a specialist practitioner who is on the ACPSEM Register for the relevant discipline, or is eligible to be so. The clinical supervisor s responsibilities include: Ensuring that the registrar is trained in all competencies and requirements specified in the Clinical Training Guide. This will require working with the registrar to develop and follow a structured training plan. Meeting regularly with the registrar to discuss progress. Fortnightly meetings are recommended. Approving competencies and requirements in the CTG when achieved. Providing clear and constructive feedback to the registrar about their progress with competencies and requirements. Providing a six monthly report on the registrar s progress to the ACPSEM Office. This may be done in liaison with the Clinical Program Coordinator / Preceptor (see Section 2.9 below). Ensuring that the registrar s progress in clinical training is documented according to ACPSEM requirements. Ensuring that clinical training is provided to a standard acceptable to the ACPSEM. Ensuring that the registrar is placed in other departments, where possible, for short periods to gain experience in techniques and equipment not available in the registrar s own department. Ensuring that the registrar has sufficient opportunities to prepare for ACPSEM assessments during the program. The clinical supervisor may delegate some aspects of training and competency assessment to other suitably qualified staff (see Section 2.6 on trainers), but should retain responsibility for overall supervision of the registrar s progress. When delegating training and/or assessment tasks to others, the clinical supervisor must ensure that the person to whom training has been delegated has been appropriately briefed about what is expected of them Trainers Staff members who are involved in providing training and assessment of TEAP registrars, but who have not been formally designated as clinical supervisor, are referred to as trainers for the purposes of this document. Trainers may be asked by the clinical supervisor to take responsibility for providing training and/or assessment in one or more TEAP competencies, requirements or modules. For example, a diagnostic medical physicist may take responsibility for training and assessment in ROMP TEAP Module 9, or a radiation therapist may provide training in parts of ROMP TEAP Modules 1 and 5. The designated clinical supervisor should ensure that the trainer has been appropriately briefed about TEAP requirements. The responsibilities of trainers are the same as those for clinical supervisors, except that they are limited to the competency, requirement or module in which they are providing training/assessment, Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 8

9 rather than extending to the whole TEAP Thesis Supervisor Supervision of a registrar s research thesis will be carried out in accordance with the regulations of the university. When a hospital-based research project is being undertaken, it is common for both the university and the registrar s hospital to provide a thesis supervisor. The hospital thesis supervisor (where appointed) must meet the university s requirements and should have extensive relevant clinical and academic experience. The thesis supervisor may not necessarily be the clinical supervisor referred to in Section 2.5. The thesis supervisor(s) shall ensure that: The topic is appropriate to the specialty in which the registrar is being trained; The research is of an academic standard appropriate to the postgraduate degree being undertaken; The resources to carry out the research will be provided; Regular meetings are arranged with the registrar to discuss progress and provide timely advice and direction; Advice is provided for the preparation of the thesis; The registrar submits the thesis in a timely manner and in accordance with the university s regulations Research Project Supervisor In order to fulfil the research requirements for certification, the registrar must publish a research paper. If this requirement has not been met before the clinical training begins, a Research Project Supervisor should be provided by the registrar s hospital. The hospital research project supervisor (where appointed) should have extensive relevant clinical and academic experience and have published research papers. The Research Project Supervisor may not necessarily be the Clinical Supervisor referred to in Section 2.5. The Research Project Supervisor shall ensure that: The topic is appropriate to the specialty in which the registrar is being trained; The research is of a standard appropriate for publication; The resources to carry out the research will be provided; Regular meetings are arranged with the registrar to discuss progress and provide timely advice and direction; Advice is provided for the preparation of the paper for publication; The registrar completes the research project and submits a manuscript for publication in a timely manner Head of Department / Chief Physicist /Chief Radiopharmaceutical Scientist The responsibilities of the Head of Department / Chief Physicist / Chief Radiopharmaceutical Scientist (however titled) include: Ensuring that the hospital is accredited by the ACPSEM as a TEAP training centre, and that the department complies with accreditation conditions; Informing the ACPSEM when circumstances that might affect continuing accreditation have changed (for example, a significant change in the number of qualified staff, or in the range of equipment and techniques available); Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 9

10 Appointing a clinical supervisor for each registrar; Providing appropriate physical facilities for registrars, including access to libraries, computing facilities, meeting rooms and audio-visual equipment; Managing rosters to ensure that registrars gain appropriate clinical experience in all competencies and requirements listed in the Clinical Training Guide; Liaising with other departments to arrange clinical experience for the registrar with techniques that are not available in the home department; Supporting registrar attendance at workshops, conferences, courses, training days and other TEAP related learning opportunities Clinical Program Coordinator / Clinical Training Coordinator / Clinical Preceptor Clinical Program Coordinators, Clinical Training Coordinators and Clinical Preceptors are individuals employed by a jurisdiction or an organization to support TEAP training. Some are state based, working with registrars from multiple hospitals. Others work within a single hospital. They may be based in public hospitals or in private practices. All have support of registrars in training as a specific component of their jobs. Most registrars can expect to have some contact with a coordinator/preceptor during their TEAP enrolment, but the level of support provided may vary significantly from one jurisdiction to the next, and with the discipline in which the registrar is being trained. The roles and responsibilities of coordinators/preceptors are determined by their individual employers. They may include: Monitoring and reporting on registrar progress. While the ACPSEM expects clinical supervisors to provide six monthly registrar progress reports, in some jurisdictions this responsibility has been delegated by supervisors to the coordinator/preceptor; Teaching registrars, including providing tutorials and practical exercises; Facilitating registrar attendance at other departments to obtain clinical experience not available in their own department; Ensuring that registrars have access to appropriate learning facilities; Reviewing registrar work and providing constructive feedback; Fostering a positive learning environment; Liaising with the ACPSEM to ensure that the guidelines for accreditation of clinical institutions are being fulfilled; Liaising with clinical supervisors, training coordinators, other coordinators/preceptors and ACPSEM branch members to facilitate group training opportunities Supporting and assisting in the development of clinical practice guidelines for the registrars; Monitoring time-lines for registrar training to ensure that trainees fulfil both the clinical and educational components of TEAP; Developing training resources TEAP Coordinator (ACPSEM Position) The ACPSEM has appointed certified specialists to positions which oversee the TEAP and the registrars enrolled in the program. Their roles and responsibilities include: Monitor progress of all Registrars in TEAP; Lead the ongoing development of the clinical training program; Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 10

11 Assess entry applications, make recommendations for acceptance and complete enrolment procedures; Liaise with the Chairs of the Certification Panels and Specialty Groups, and the TEAP Coordination Group on matters affecting the delivery and development of training programs; Develop and maintain effective relationships and communications with Health Departments (National, State and Territory), Chief Medical Physicists and Radiopharmaceutical Scientists, Heads of Departments and ACPSEM representatives; Undertake programmed accreditation activities with clinical departments and universities; Assist in the review of clinical department and university accreditation policies, requirements and procedures, including benchmarking against international standards; Monitoring time-lines for registrar training to ensure that registrars fulfil both the clinical and educational components of TEAP; Advise Chairs of the Certification Panels and Specialty Groups, and the TEAP Coordination Group on DIMP TEAP web design and utilization issues. Develop training resources; Help facilitate registrar attendance at other departments to obtain clinical experience not available in their own department; Help ensure that registrars have access to appropriate learning facilities; Contribute to the ongoing review and evaluation of outcomes, standards, practices, policies and procedures of the TEAPs; and Work on overall TEAP development ACPSEM Office The ACPSEM Office is responsible for managing administrative aspects of the program, and coordinating program development. Along with the TEAP Coordinator, ACPSEM also employs a TEAP Development and an Education Officer (EO), both of whom are involved in supporting TEAP. Their roles and responsibilities include: Assisting others to implement their roles and responsibilities as outlined in this document; Providing a conduit for consultation and communication; Developing associated policies and processes as required; Dealing with administrative aspects of TEAP including handling enrolment applications, responding to enquiries and maintaining records; Providing administrative support for ACPSEM members and committees where practical; Arranging annual progress reviews, assessments and examinations; Liaising with universities and clinical training institutions concerning accreditation for TEAP; Ensuring TEAP information is accessible, up to date, and relevant; Implementing policies, procedures and action plans approved by the Certification Panels and the PSB; Developing resources to support and monitor registrar training, including development of the ACPSEM e-learning web site; Liaising with external organizations such as the RANZCR, AIR and jurisdictional health authorities; As ACPSEM employees, office staff members are directly responsible to the ACPSEM general Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 11

12 manager. On TEAP related matters, the office staff report regularly to the Professional Standards PSB and the Certification Panels. Priorities are determined through consultation with these bodies, and the ACPSEM Board ACPSEM Branches The Specialty Groups, TEAP Coordinators and ACPSEM office must keep ACPSEM Branches closely informed on TEAP matters. Branches can provide valuable support for the training of registrars locally although their TEAP activity may vary according to local circumstances. The management of the national TEAP aims to assist in maintaining a balanced support program. Branches may be involved in the arranging of meetings, workshops or conferences that complement registrar training. 3. Fees The ACPSEM charges an annual fee for enrolment in TEAP. Fees may be paid annually or in quarterly instalments. Registrars must ensure that they pay fees by the due date. Failure to do so will result in a registrar being prevented from sitting examinations and achieving final certification. In addition to the annual enrolment fee, the ACPSEM may charge fees for sitting written and practical/oral examinations. Fees are set by the ACPSEM treasurer and are subject to change from time to time. A list of current TEAP fees may be accessed on the ACPSEM web site at Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 12

13 4. The Program for Radiation Oncology Medical Physics 4.1. Entry Requirements To enter the ROMP TEAP a candidate needs: To have obtained an ACPSEM approved undergraduate degree majoring in physics 4 or have an approved equivalence 5 from the ACPSEM for such a requirement; To be accepted into an ACPSEM accredited postgraduate degree program in medical physics or to have completed an ACPSEM accredited postgraduate degree program in medical physics 6 ; To be accepted into a registrar training position at an ACPSEM accredited ROMP clinical training institution 7 ; The ROMP clinical training institution should offer the position on the condition that the applicant satisfies: The requirements for entry into the TEAP; The university entry requirements and has been accepted into the postgraduate academic program (if required); The Radiation Oncology Certification Panel may exempt a candidate from any of these requirements under special circumstances Program The program will normally take between three and five years, depending on a registrar s prior qualifications. It consists of: An ACPSEM accredited MSc in Medical Physics or other ACPSEM approved postgraduate degree (typically years full time equivalent); A structured in-service clinical training program working as a registrar in a radiation oncology department that has been accredited for the purpose of this training by the ACPSEM (usually a minimum 3 years full time equivalent). A detailed syllabus outlining the competencies to be achieved during the clinical training program is published in the Clinical Training Guide (CTG); Research and development activities relevant to radiation oncology. These may be undertaken as part of the postgraduate degree and/or in conjunction with the clinical training program. 4 A BSc degree majoring in physics from an Australian or New Zealand university will generally meet this requirement. Acceptable degrees will have a strong mathematics and physics component. 5 For example, having an equivalent physics & maths content in a relevant physical science or engineering degree or an appropriate overseas degree which has been assessed by NOOSR or NZQA, and ACPSEM as being an equivalent qualification. 6 Defined in the ACPSEM s Accreditation of University Postgraduate Courses in Medical Physics. 7 Defined in the ACPSEM s Accreditation of Clinical Medical Physics Departments for the Radiation Oncology Medical Physics Training Program. Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 13

14 4.3. Postgraduate Academic Degree Course The course shall substantially meet the ACPSEM coursework syllabus 8 in the following core subjects (or their equivalent). Anatomy and Physiology for Medical Physicists Basic Radiation Physics Basic Imaging Physics Basic Radiotherapy Physics Radiation Protection A research thesis shall also be undertaken in an area relevant to radiation oncology medical physics. Note that it is also acceptable for a registrar to undertake the core subjects and the research thesis in separate programs. For example, the core subjects might be undertaken as a postgraduate diploma in one university and the research thesis as a research masters (or PhD) at another university. This is conditional on the core subject program being accredited by the ACPSEM. When a registrar has previously passed one or more of these subjects in a postgraduate course that has not been accredited, then the Certification Panel will assess the subject(s) and may grant an exemption. In this case the registrar must independently study other subjects in the ACPSEM coursework syllabus, from an ACPSEM accredited university, which have not been included in the postgraduate course already completed Undertaking a Doctorate Instead of a Master s Degree Although the minimum postgraduate qualification requirement is a Masters in Medical Physics, it is recognised (and supported by the ACPSEM) that some registrars may wish to complete a higher degree (e.g. PhD or a Professional Doctorate). Registrars who undertake a doctorate must be aware that the training program including an MSc is expected to take five years to complete. It is likely that a doctorate will take longer. However the program caters for either a Master s degree or other higher degree as the postgraduate goal. The requirement for completing TEAP is that the registrar has demonstrated research progress to at least the level of a Master s degree and passed the core units of study. The university must attest that the registrar has progressed satisfactorily to a level required for an MSc by research Recognition of prior postgraduate degrees Registrars who enter the program with a higher degree may have their prior qualifications recognized according to Sections , subject to approval by the Certification Panel. Registrars seeking such recognition must apply to the Certification Panel, giving full particulars in writing of their postgraduate qualifications, publications and conference presentations, together with supportive documentation, so that a ruling may be made An ACPSEM Accredited Masters Degree in Medical Physics Registrars who have an ACPSEM accredited Masters Degree in Medical Physics before entering the training program will be deemed to have satisfied the TEAP assessment requirement Award of Approved Postgraduate Degree. Publications in peer reviewed scientific journals by registrars during their MSc research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Submission for publication in peer reviewed journal(s). 8 Full details of the ACPSEM recommended syllabus for the coursework component can be found in the ACPSEM s Accreditation of University Postgraduate Courses in Medical Physics Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 14

15 Conference presentations at recognized national or international scientific conferences made by registrars during their MSc research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Presentation at national/international conference(s) A non-accredited postgraduate degree in Medical Physics For registrars who have an Masters Degree in Medical Physics from a university not accredited by the ACPSEM (for example, from an overseas university) before entering the training program, the Certification Panel will determine whether the registrar s qualifications meet the requirements for Award of Approved Postgraduate Degree on a case-by-case basis. The determination will be based on an assessment of whether the coursework and research components of the registrar s postgraduate degree meet the requirements of the ACPSEM s Accreditation of University Postgraduate Courses in Medical Physics. The ACPSEM Professional Standards Board may approve postgraduate degrees from universities accredited by other national accrediting bodies as meeting this requirement. Publications in peer reviewed scientific journals by registrars during their MSc research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Submission for publication in peer reviewed journal(s). Conference presentations at recognized national or international scientific conferences made by registrars during their MSc research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Presentation at national/international conference(s) A Non-Accredited Postgraduate Degree in Physics with a Research Component When a registrar has obtained a higher degree in physics (or an approved degree equivalent) prior to entering the training program, and that degree included a research component, but it is not ACPSEM accredited, the registrar will be required to undertake the core units of study listed in the Postgraduate Academic Degree Course (Section 4.3 from an ACPSEM accredited university course, but will not be required to enrol in an ACPSEM accredited postgraduate degree for the purposes of undertaking a research thesis. Completion of the core units of study together with the prior research thesis will be sufficient to satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Award of Approved Postgraduate Degree. Publications in peer reviewed scientific journals by registrars during their higher degree research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Submission for publication in peer reviewed journal(s). Conference presentations at recognized national or international scientific conferences made by registrars during their higher degree research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Presentation at national/international conference(s) A Non-Accredited Postgraduate Degree in Physics with no Research Component When a registrar has obtained a higher degree in physics (or an approved degree equivalent), and that degree did not include a research component (for example, a coursework Masters), then the candidate will be required to complete an ACPSEM accredited MSc. Prior publications and conference presentations will be assessed by the Certification Panel on a case-by-case basis A Postgraduate Degree in a Discipline other than Physics When a registrar has obtained a higher degree in a discipline other than physics before entering the training program, the Certification Panel may approve exemptions from the research requirements of the program based on a case-by-case assessment. All registrars will be required to undertake the core units of study listed in the Postgraduate Academic Degree Course (Section 4.3), from an ACPSEM accredited university course. Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 15

16 Prior publications and conference presentations will be assessed by the Certification Panel on a case-by-case basis Clinical Training Competency-based clinical training in radiation oncology medical physics shall be obtained through a placement at an accredited radiation oncology or medical physics department 9. The hospital training program shall provide adequate clinical work experience, teaching, tutoring and mentoring. It is expected that the clinical training period will take a minimum of three years FTE to reach the desired competency level. This Clinical Training Guide (CTG) for Radiation Oncology Medical Physics (ROMP) registrars forms the basis of training in the TEAP. Registrars enrolled in the ACPSEM TEAP must follow this guide to attain the required competence. They will be assessed on an annual basis in relation to their progress in training prescribed in the CTG. The current version of the CTG is V3.6, which is an centralized online learning environment. Registrars must use the ACPSEM online system. The CTG is based on learning outcomes which, as they are achieved, build to acquire levels of competence and eventually the competencies themselves. The CTG is divided into eight modules. Module 1 is a clinical introduction which should be completed early in the training period. There are five core modules (numbers 2 to 6) each of which outlines the clinical knowledge and skills required of a certified Radiation Oncology Medical Physicist. Currently, two levels of proficiency are possible for module 6 Brachytherapy (Level 2 and 3) Additionally, there are two ancillary modules (numbers 7 and 8) which provide professional skills and education necessary for a ROMP to work effectively in the multi-disciplinary field of radiation oncology. All Learning Outcomes (LO) have Recommended Items of Training (RIOTs), selected references, Suggested Assessment Methods and Assessment Criteria. The RIOTs are not mandatory but rather recommended. Some may be omitted and replaced by other training items more relevant to the registrar s particular training centre. This is left to the discretion of the clinical supervisor. The Assessment Criteria are mandatory and must be assessed by an appropriate method to achieve the LO. The eight modules are: Module 1: Clinical Introduction Module 2: Radiation Safety and Protection Module 3: External Beam Radiation Dosimetry Module 4: External Beam Radiation Therapy Equipment Module 5: External Beam Treatment Planning Module 6: Brachytherapy Module 7: Professional Awareness, Management and Training Module 8: Diagnostic Imaging Medical Physics There are 42 Competencies in the eight Modules which contain 82 levels and 211 Learning Outcomes. The numbers reduce slightly for Level 2 Brachytherapy proficiency. The modules can be undertaken in any order and with more than one module undertaken at a time. Evidence of the training should be kept locally as a portfolio in hardcopy and/or electronic form and examples uploaded to the centralized ACPSEM online CTG. 9 See ACPSEM s Accreditation of Clinical Medical Physics Departments for the Radiation Oncology Medical Physics Training Program Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 16

17 The registrar may require training in other departments for periods of time to gain experience in techniques and equipment that are not available in the registrar s own department. Where possible, the registrar should spend time gaining experience in imaging techniques and related quality control procedures in nuclear medicine and radiology. Where this is not possible, alternative arrangements must be found for the registrar to gain equivalent experience and knowledge, for example through attending workshops, courses and training days. At the conclusion of the clinical training the registrar will be expected to have achieved: All competencies and the Learning Outcomes that underpin them.. An ability to work with minimal supervision in any area of radiation oncology medical physics. An ability to supervise the practice of standard radiation oncology medical physics tasks. An ability to establish new work programs. A capacity for judgement, innovation, investigation and creativity. A capacity for interpreting the state of the art to non-specialists, students, professionals in related disciplines, regulatory authorities or administrators Consideration of Previous Clinical ROMP Experience As noted in Section 4.2, the clinical training period is expected to take a minimum of three years FTE to reach the desired competency level. Registrars entering the TEAP with previous clinical experience may have already achieved some competencies, or may be able to achieve them in a shorter time. Evidence of competency from previous clinical experience should be considered by supervisors when assessing competency for registrars undertaking the TEAP. Registrars are responsible for providing appropriate evidence of their previous training, skills and knowledge to their supervisor. The ACPSEM Professional Standards Board may in future approve training undertaken at hospitals accredited by other national accrediting bodies as meeting some or all of the ROMP TEAP clinical training requirements Assessment for Radiation Oncology Medical Physics To successfully complete the ROMP TEAP, a registrar must achieve each of the following assessment components: Award of Approved Postgraduate Degree (Masters or higher)*; Annual Assessments of Competencies attained, and training progress. These are conducted by the TEAC, an ROCP examiner or ROCP Assessor; Publication in peer reviewed journal(s)*; Presentation at national/international conference(s)*; Pass in one written exam (held in March and September); Achievement of all competencies and requirements as outlined in the ACPSEM Radiation Oncology Medical Physics Clinical Training Guide (CTG) V3.6 December 2013 or later versions*; Submission of three examples of best work; Pass in the Part A Practical/Oral Exam; Pass in the Part B Oral Exam. For full information about each of these requirements, please refer to the ACPSEM s document Assessment of Registrars in Radiation Oncology Medical Physics * The elements highlighted with an asterisk in the list above are not directly assessed by the Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 17

18 ROCP. Registrars are required to provide evidence to the ACPSEM of satisfactory completion of these elements Successful Completion Upon satisfactorily passing the assessment process, the Certification Panel will recommend to the Professional Standards Board that the registrar be granted Certification as a Medical Physics Specialist in Radiation Oncology, with the post-nominal CMPS (RO). The newly certified Medical Physics Specialist is then eligible to apply for entry to the ACPSEM s Register of Medical Physics Specialists for Radiation Oncology Unlimited Current ROMP TEAP References The following references have been cited in this document and were applicable to TEAP at the date of this document. 1. ACPSEM s Accreditation of Postgraduate University Course for the purposes of the ACPSEM Training, Education and Assessment Program V ACPSEM s Policy for Accreditation of Clinical Medical Physics Departments for the Radiation Oncology Medical Physics Training Program v5 12 March ACPSEM s Assessment of a Registrar in Radiation Oncology Medical Physics v1.3 Aug ACPSEM s Duties and Guidelines for Officers of the ACPSEM, Nov ACPSEM s Radiation Oncology Medical Physics Clinical Training Guide v3.6 December From time to time, the ACPSEM updates these documents. Readers should consult the ACPSEM web site at to find current versions of the listed documents. Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 18

19 5. The Program for Diagnostic Imaging Medical Physics 5.1. Entry Requirements To enter the DIMP TEAP a candidate needs: To have obtained an ACPSEM approved undergraduate degree majoring in physics or have an ACPSEM approved 4 alternate undergraduate degree; To be accepted into an ACPSEM accredited postgraduate degree program in medical physics or to have completed an ACPSEM accredited 5,6 postgraduate degree program in medical physics; To be accepted into a registrar training position at an ACPSEM accredited clinical training institution 7 ; The DIMP clinical training institution should offer the position on the condition that the applicant satisfies: The requirements for entry into the TEAP; The university entry requirements and has been accepted into the postgraduate academic program (if required); The DIMP Certification Panel (DICP) may exempt a candidate from any of these requirements under special circumstances Program When enrolling in the program, the registrar will nominate whether they are undertaking DIMP TEAP with a diagnostic radiology (DR) specialty, a nuclear medicine (NM) specialty, or both (dual specialty). The program will normally take between three and five years, depending on a registrar s prior qualifications, for a single specialty and an additional year for a second specialty. The program consists of: An ACPSEM accredited MSc in Medical Physics or other ACPSEM approved postgraduate degree (typically years full time equivalent); A structured in-service clinical training program working as a registrar in a department that has been accredited for the purpose of this training by the ACPSEM (usually a minimum 3 years full time equivalent). A detailed syllabus outlining the competencies to be achieved during the clinical training program is published in the Clinical Training Guide (CTG); Research and development activities relevant to diagnostic imaging. These may be undertaken as part of the postgraduate degree and/or in conjunction with the clinical training program. 4 A BE degree majoring in electronic, electrical, mechanical or biomedical engineering from an Australian or New Zealand university will generally meet this requirement. Acceptable degrees will have a strong mathematics and physics component. 5 For example, having an equivalent degree in a relevant physical science or an appropriate overseas degree which has been assessed as being an equivalent qualification. 6 Defined in the ACPSEM s Accreditation of University Postgraduate Courses in Medical Physics. 7 Defined in the ACPSEM s Accreditation of Clinical Medical Physics Departments. Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 19

20 5.3. Postgraduate Academic Degree Course The course shall substantially meet the ACPSEM coursework syllabus 8, utilising the main recommended texts in the following core subjects (or their equivalent). Anatomy and Physiology for Medical Physicists Basic Radiation Physics Basic Imaging Physics Basic Radiotherapy Physics Radiation Protection A research thesis shall also be undertaken in an area relevant to diagnostic imaging medical physics. Note that it is also acceptable for a registrar to undertake the core subjects and the research thesis in separate programs. For example, the core subjects might be undertaken as a postgraduate diploma in one university and the research thesis as a research masters (or PhD) at another university. This is conditional on the core subject program being accredited by the ACPSEM. When a registrar has previously passed one or more of these subjects in a postgraduate course that has not been accredited, then the Certification Panel will assess the subject(s) and may grant an exemption. In this case the registrar must independently study other subjects in the ACPSEM coursework syllabus, from an ACPSEM accredited university, which have not been included in the postgraduate course already completed Undertaking a Doctorate Instead of a Masters Degree Although the minimum postgraduate qualification requirement is a Masters in Medical Physics, it is recognised (and supported by the ACPSEM) that some registrars may wish to complete a higher degree (e.g. PhD or a Professional Doctorate). Registrars who undertake a doctorate must be aware that the training program, including an MSc, is expected to take five years to complete and it is likely that a doctorate will take longer. However, the program caters for either an MSc or other higher degree as the postgraduate goal. The requirement for completing TEAP is that the registrar has demonstrated research progress to at least the level of an MSc degree and passed the core units of study. The university must attest that the registrar has progressed satisfactorily to a level required for an MSc Recognition of prior postgraduate degrees Registrars who enter the program with a higher degree may have their prior qualifications recognized according to Sections , subject to approval by the Certification Panel. Registrars seeking such recognition must apply to the Certification Panel, giving full particulars in writing of their postgraduate qualifications, publications and conference presentations, together with supportive documentation, so that a ruling may be made An ACPSEM Accredited Masters Degree in Medical Physics Registrars who have an ACPSEM accredited Masters Degree in Medical Physics before entering the training program will be deemed to have satisfied the TEAP assessment requirement Award of Approved Postgraduate Degree. Publications in peer reviewed scientific journals by registrars during their MSc research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Submission for publication in peer reviewed journal(s). Conference presentations at recognized national or international scientific conferences made by registrars during their MSc research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Presentation at national/international conference(s). Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 20

21 A non-accredited postgraduate degree in Medical Physics For registrars who have an Masters Degree in Medical Physics from a university not accredited by the ACPSEM (for example, from an overseas university) before entering the training program, the Certification Panel will determine whether the registrar s qualifications meet the requirements for Award of Approved Postgraduate Degree on a case-by-case basis. The determination will be based on an assessment of whether the coursework and research components of the registrar s postgraduate degree meet the requirements of the ACPSEM s Accreditation of University Postgraduate Courses in Medical Physics. The ACPSEM Professional Standards Board may approve postgraduate degrees from universities accredited by other national accrediting bodies as meeting this requirement. Publications in peer reviewed scientific journals by registrars during their MSc research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Submission for publication in peer reviewed journal(s). Conference presentations at recognized national or international scientific conferences made by registrars during their MSc research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Presentation at national/international conference(s) A Non-Accredited Postgraduate Degree in Physics with a Research Component When a registrar has obtained a higher degree in physics (or an approved degree equivalent) prior to entering the training program, and that degree included a research component but it is not ACPSEM accredited, the registrar will be required to undertake the core units of study listed in the Postgraduate Academic Degree Course (Section 5.3) from an ACPSEM accredited university course, but will not be required to enrol in an ACPSEM accredited postgraduate degree for the purposes of undertaking a research thesis. Completion of the core units of study together with the prior research thesis will be sufficient to satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Award of Approved Postgraduate Degree. Publications in peer reviewed scientific journals by registrars during their higher degree research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Submission for publication in peer reviewed journal(s). Conference presentations at recognized national or international scientific conferences made by registrars during their higher degree research will satisfy the TEAP assessment requirement Presentation at national/international conference(s) A Non-Accredited Postgraduate Degree in Physics with no Research Component When a registrar has obtained a higher degree in physics (or an approved degree equivalent), and that degree did not include a research component (for example, a coursework Masters), then the candidate will be required to complete an ACPSEM accredited MSc. Prior publications and conference presentations will be assessed by the Certification Panel on a case-by-case basis A Postgraduate Degree in a Discipline other than Physics When a registrar has obtained a higher degree in a discipline other than physics before entering the training program, the Certification Panel may approve exemptions from the research requirements of the program based on a case-by-case assessment. They will be required to undertake the core units of study listed in the Postgraduate Academic Degree Course (Section 5.3), from an ACPSEM accredited university course. Prior publications and conference presentations will be assessed by the Certification Panel on a case-by-case basis. Issued: March 2016 Reviewed by: Certification Panels Page: 21