Why is radiological protection different in medicine

There are many aspects of radiological protection in medicine that are different than in other areas of activity using ionising radiations. In this paper, we present and justify some of these differences and highlight the reasons and benefits of this consideration for the medical field. It is important to understand the differences as we are all likely to be patients at some point in our lives and be exposed to ionising radiation for imaging procedures several times and, in some cases, for therapeutic indications. The work done by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and other international organisations to produce and recommend a consistent system of radiological protection in medicine for the safe use of ionising radiations in medical practices must be highlighted. We should understand why we do not apply dose limits and dose constraints for patients. Why we have three levels of justification when considering the use of ionising radiation for patients. The relevance of personalised radiation protection in parallel to personalised medical practice. The importance of an integrated approach for occupational and patient protection, especially for interventional procedures. The differences between patients and volunteers in biomedical research. The importance of radiation safety in quality assurance programmes (including the consideration of unintended and accidental exposures) for some clinical practices. The relevance of education and training in radiological protection for medical and health professionals and information on radiation risks for patients. And finally, the ethical issues for the safe use of ionising radiations in medicine and the impact of new technology will be addressed.