By Eva Bezak, VP IOMP and School Coordinator
The IOMP School on the Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), held from October 5th to 8th, 2024, at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Putrajaya, was the first in the series of newly launched IOMP educational initiatives aimed at delivering education to medical physicist to address needs in individual regions. The IMRT aimed to deliver lectures and hands on training on IMRT with participants from diverse countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and even Mexico.
A Warm Welcome
Our hosts at the National Cancer Institute extended a generous, friendly, and professional welcome. The hospitality shown by the NCI team was instrumental in creating an environment conducive to learning and collaboration, providing access to the linear accelerators and the computer suite. The program was designed and delivered by an excellent faculty, including Prof. Eva Bezak, Mrs Lisa Cunningham, Prof. Arun Chougule, Dr. Jannatul Madinah Wahabi, Dr. Yong Jie See, and Mr. Rahmat. Their insights and dedication to the field were truly inspiring.
Engaging Curriculum
The four-day course was meticulously structured around the latest trends and advances in IMRT. Participants had the unique opportunity to delve into advanced treatment modalities like Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT), and even SBRT with a specific focus on applications in breast, prostate, and head and neck cancers.
Hands-on practical sessions on treatment planning were a core component of the curriculum, facilitated by the Varian team, which provided participants with direct experience using the Eclipse Treatment Planning System. This practical training allowed attendees to create actual treatment plans, significantly enhancing their understanding of how these advanced techniques can be applied in clinical settings. We thank Varian for their kind support. The NCI enabled us access the a practical patient specific Quality Assurance session on a linear accelerator using a 3D phantom. Single point dosimetry check using an ionization chamber was also performed.
Knowledge Exchange
One of the most enriching aspects of the IOMP IMRT School was the exchange of first-hand knowledge and practices among participants. The diversity of experiences shared highlighted the common goal that unites us: delivering the best possible care to our patients. The discussions were not only informative but also fostered camaraderie and collaboration among medical physicists from around the globe.
Participants were eager to learn and share their own insights, creating an atmosphere of mutual support and enthusiasm. The joy of connecting with like-minded professionals, passionate about advancing patient care, was palpable throughout the event.
Acknowledgments
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the National Cancer Institute for their flawless organization and unwavering support throughout the event. Your dedication ensured that everything ran smoothly, allowing us to focus on the learning experience. The success of the IMRT School is a testament to your hard work and commitment.
I also want to acknowledge the IOMP for supporting the travel of our international lecturers, making this gathering possible. This initiative underscores our commitment to elevating the standards of radiotherapy physics not just within our respective countries but also across Southeast Asia and the globe.
Looking Ahead
As we look forward to similar promising opportunities in the future, let us continue to uplift the practice of Radiotherapy Physics. The knowledge and skills gained during the IMRT School are vital for our shared mission of advancing patient care through innovative techniques.
In conclusion, the IOMP IMRT School was an enriching experience that enhanced our understanding of IMRT techniques and their critical role in patient care. It was a privilege to learn from esteemed colleagues and to build lasting connections with fellow participants who share our passion for medical physics.
Thank you to everyone involved for making this event a success, and I look forward to our next gathering!
